Creamy Deli Style Chicken Salad with chicken, celery, pecans, cranberries, and a tangy mayo dressing. Perfect for sandwiches or salads!
Let me paint a picture for you: it’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re rummaging through the fridge for something—anything—that feels like actual food. This was me last week. I was about this close to settling for a PB&J when I spotted some leftover chicken. Suddenly, inspiration struck: Deli Style Chicken Salad!
I remember the first time I tried a deli-style chicken salad. It was during a trip to this tiny corner deli in a sleepy little town. You know the kind—where the menu board is handwritten, and the sandwiches come with a side of homemade charm. Their chicken salad was a game-changer—creamy, crunchy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor.
So, I set out to recreate that magic at home. This recipe? It’s got all the deli vibes but with a personal touch. The crunch of celery, the nuttiness of pecans, and the sweetness of cranberries all come together in the creamiest dressing. My family didn’t just like it—they loved it. Even my picky eater (a miracle in itself).
Why You’ll Love This Deli Style Chicken Salad Recipe?
- Balanced Flavor: The combo of creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and sweet cranberries hits every note.
- Texture Galore: Crunchy pecans, crisp celery, tender chicken—it’s a party in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Sandwich it, scoop it onto greens, or eat it straight from the bowl. (No judgment!)
- Meal Prep MVP: Make a batch on Sunday, and you’re set for lunches all week.
Ingredient Notes:
Every ingredient has its role, so let’s break it down:
- Cooked Chicken: Cubed or shredded, it’s the heart of the salad. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here.
- Miracle Whip and Mayonnaise: Together, they create a creamy dressing with just the right tang.
- Celery and Bell Pepper: These add a crisp, fresh bite. Don’t skip these—they make the salad pop!
- Green Onions: Subtle but flavorful, they add a mild oniony kick.
- Pecans: Toasting them brings out their rich, nutty flavor and adds texture.
- Dried Cranberries: Sweet and chewy, they balance the savory elements beautifully.
- Seasoning Salt and Paprika: These spices elevate the flavor without overwhelming the salad.
How To Make Deli Style Chicken Salad?
This recipe is as easy as it gets. You’ll have a deli-style masterpiece in no time!
- Make the Dressing
Start by mixing the Miracle Whip and mayonnaise in a medium bowl. Add the seasoning salt and paprika, stirring until smooth. This creamy base is where all the magic begins. - Add the Chicken
Stir in the cubed chicken, making sure every piece is coated in the dressing. It’s all about that even flavor. - Mix in the Veggies
Toss in the celery, green onions, and bell pepper. These fresh, crunchy bits add the perfect contrast to the creamy chicken. - Add the Extras
Fold in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries (or grapes, if you’re feeling adventurous). These add texture and sweetness that take the salad to the next level. - Season and Adjust
Sprinkle in a little black pepper, taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is where you make it yours. - Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. Trust me, the flavors meld beautifully when they have time to hang out.
Storage Options:
This chicken salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days if stored in an airtight container. Stir it before serving to refresh the flavors. Freezing isn’t ideal because the creamy dressing can separate when thawed, but honestly, it’s so good you probably won’t have leftovers to freeze anyway.
Variations and Substitutions:
This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ideas:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- Protein Swap: Use turkey, ham, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
- Different Nuts: Walnuts or almonds work just as well as pecans.
- Fruit Options: Swap cranberries for raisins, dried cherries, or fresh apple chunks.
- Healthier Dressing: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes if you like heat.
What to Serve with Deli Style Chicken Salad?
This salad pairs well with just about anything. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty Bread or Croissants: Perfect for sandwiches or open-faced toasts.
- Lettuce Wraps: A low-carb, fresh option.
- Crackers: Great for a quick snack or appetizer spread.
- Mixed Greens: Turn it into a salad by serving it over a bed of fresh greens.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is a favorite for its convenience and flavor, but any cooked chicken works.
How long does it last?
Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
So, what do you think? Ready to whip up this Deli Style Chicken Salad and turn those leftovers into something amazing? I’d love to hear how you make it your own—what’s your favorite twist?
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Deli Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- ½ cup Miracle Whip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 cups of cooked chicken cubed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- ½ cup chopped celery
- 2 green onions chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup toasted and chopped pecans
- 1 cup dried cranberries dried cherries, or sliced grape halves
- Dash of black pepper to taste
Instructions
- For the dressing start by combining ½ cup of Miracle Whip with ½ cup of mayonnaise in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon each of paprika and seasoning salt making sure to mix everything
- Next, incorporate 4 cups of cubed cooked chicken into the dressing mixture.
- To add some freshness and crunch stir in ½ cup of chopped celery, 2 chopped onions and ½ cup of chopped green bell pepper.
- For a delightful texture toss in 1 cup of toasted and chopped pecans.
- To give it a sweet twist add 1 cup of dried cranberries, cherries or sliced grape halves.
- Don't forget to sprinkle a dash of pepper to enhance the flavors. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Before serving and savoring this dish. Refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour. This will allow all the flavors to blend together perfectly.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
