Chicken Salad Without Celery Recipe

Introduction to Chicken Salad Without Celery Recipe

Looking for a delicious chicken salad without celery? You’re in the right place. This recipe is creamy, flavorful, and full of texture—without the crunch of celery. Whether you’re avoiding celery due to allergies, taste, or just want something different, this version won’t disappoint. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch. Keep reading to discover the simple ingredients, easy steps, and tasty variations!

Why You’ll Love This Celery-Free Chicken Salad

This chicken salad without celery is a must-try for so many reasons:

• Celery-Free but Still Crunchy: Don’t like celery or allergic to it? No problem. This recipe uses tasty alternatives like apples, nuts, or pickles to give the salad that satisfying crunch.
• Creamy and Flavorful: A perfectly seasoned, creamy dressing brings everything together. It’s tangy, smooth, and delicious.
• Customizable: Make it your own with add-ins like grapes, cranberries, or avocado. It’s flexible and easy to adjust to your taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with simple steps. Great for meal prep or last-minute lunches.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Use it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or serve it as a dip. It fits picnics, parties, or weekday lunches.

Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions

This chicken salad without celery is made with simple, everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, plus some smart swaps in case you’re missing something or want to tweak the flavor.

Main Ingredients:

Cooked Chicken:

Shredded or chopped. Rotisserie, poached, baked, or grilled all work well. White or dark meat, or a mix—your choice!

Mayonnaise:

Provides creaminess. You can use regular, light, or avocado-based mayo depending on your preference.

Dijon Mustard (optional):

Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor. Leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.

Red Onion or Green Onion:

Offers sharpness and color. Use green onions for a milder bite.

Apple, Pickles, or Nuts (for crunch):

These replace celery’s crunch without the bitterness. Try diced apples, chopped pickles, almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

Salt and Pepper:

Essential for seasoning. Taste and adjust as needed.

Lemon Juice:

Adds brightness and balances the richness of the mayo.

Smart Substitutions:

Yogurt for Mayo:

Swap part (or all) of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Avocado Instead of Mayo:

For a dairy-free, egg-free, or paleo version, mashed avocado works beautifully.

Fruit for Sweetness:

If you like a hint of sweet, add halved grapes, dried cranberries, or pineapple tidbits.

No Mustard?

A splash of vinegar or a little relish can still bring a tangy kick.

Best Chicken for Salad & How to Prepare It

The key to a delicious chicken salad starts with using the right chicken. Here’s how to choose, cook, and prepare your chicken for the best texture and flavor.

Best Chicken Options:

Rotisserie Chicken

A quick and flavorful option. Simply shred the meat and discard the skin and bones. Great for saving time.

Poached Chicken

Moist and tender. Simmer boneless chicken breasts or thighs in salted water or broth until cooked through, then shred or chop.

Baked or Grilled Chicken

Adds a deeper flavor. Just be sure not to overcook—dry chicken won’t blend well in the salad.

Leftover Chicken

Got roast chicken or cooked chicken from another meal? Perfect! Just chop or shred and you’re ready to go.

How to Cook Chicken for Salad (Poached Method):

• Add chicken breasts to a large pot and cover with water or chicken broth.
• Season lightly with salt, pepper, garlic, or herbs if desired.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let it cool slightly, then shred or dice.

How to Shred or Chop Chicken:

• Shredded: Use two forks, a stand mixer, or your hands.
• Cubed: Slice into small, bite-sized pieces for a chunkier texture.

Pro Tips:

• Let the chicken cool before mixing with mayo to avoid a watery salad.
• Use a mix of white and dark meat for a balance of flavor and moisture.
• Chop uniformly to keep the texture consistent throughout the salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making chicken salad without celery is simple, quick, and requires minimal prep. Follow these clear steps to put everything together in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If using cooked chicken (rotisserie, baked, or poached), shred or dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. You’ll need about 2 to 3 cups of chopped or shredded chicken for this recipe.

Step 2: Chop the Mix-Ins

Dice your preferred crunchy substitute for celery—like apples, pickles, or nuts. Mince onions (red, green, or shallots) if using.

• Optional: chop any add-ins like grapes, dried cranberries, or herbs.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, add the chicken, chopped mix-ins, and any extras you like. Pour the dressing over the top. Gently mix with a spoon or spatula until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.

Step 6: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and improves texture.

Creamy Dressing Without Celery

The dressing is what ties the whole chicken salad together—smooth, tangy, and full of flavor. Even without celery, this creamy blend keeps the salad moist and delicious. Here’s how to make it and how to customize it to your taste.

Basic Creamy Dressing Ingredients:

Mayonnaise (½ cup)

The base of the dressing. Choose full-fat for a richer taste or light mayo for fewer calories.

Dijon Mustard (1–2 teaspoons) (optional)

Adds a mild tang and depth. You can also use yellow mustard for a milder kick or omit it for a more classic flavor.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)

Balances the creaminess and brightens the flavor. You can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if needed.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Essential for seasoning. Start light and adjust after mixing the salad.

Optional Flavor Boosters:

Garlic Powder or Onion Powder (¼ teaspoon each)

Adds subtle savory flavor without overpowering.

Fresh or Dried Herbs

Try chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh twist.

A Touch of Honey or Maple Syrup (½ teaspoon)

Adds balance if you’re using tart mix-ins like pickles or cranberries.

Light & Healthy Substitutions:

Greek Yogurt

Replace some or all of the mayo for a lighter, protein-rich version with a slight tang.

Avocado

Mashed avocado makes a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Great for paleo or egg-free diets.

Sour Cream or Plain Skyr

Works well as a mayo-yogurt combo or stand-alone creamy base.

How to Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more mustard for tang, lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch more salt).  Pour over the salad and toss to combine.

Pro Tip:

Let the salad chill for 30 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors in the dressing to absorb into the chicken and other ingredients, creating a better-balanced bite.

Variations and Custom Add-Ins

One of the best things about chicken salad—especially a celery-free version—is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re looking for a little sweetness, crunch, spice, or added nutrition, you can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste.

Popular Add-Ins for Crunch:

Chopped Apples

Sweet, crisp, and refreshing. Use red apples for sweetness or green for tartness.

Toasted Nuts

Almonds, pecans, walnuts, or cashews add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds

A great nut-free alternative for texture and protein.

Chopped Pickles or Cucumber

Provide tang and crunch without the bitterness of celery.

For a Touch of Sweetness:

Halved Grapes

Red or green grapes bring a juicy burst of sweetness. A classic addition.

Dried Cranberries or Raisins

Chewy, sweet, and perfect for balance if your dressing has mustard or lemon.

Pineapple Tidbits or Mango Cubes

For a tropical twist and added juiciness.

For Extra Creaminess or Flavor:

Diced Avocado

Adds creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor. Best added just before serving.

Shredded Cheese

Cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella can make it heartier and kid-friendly.

Boiled Eggs (chopped)

Turns the chicken salad into an even more filling, protein-packed dish.

For a Bit of Heat or Spice:

Chopped Jalapeños

Add fresh or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Hot Sauce or Sriracha

Mix a few drops into the dressing for mild heat.

Curry Powder or Smoked Paprika

For a deeper, more complex flavor.

Dietary-Friendly Substitutions:

• Low-Carb: Skip fruit and stick to veggies and protein-rich mix-ins.
• Dairy-Free: Avoid cheese and yogurt; stick to mayo or avocado dressing.
• Gluten-Free: The salad itself is naturally gluten-free—just serve with GF bread or crackers.

Pro Tips for Variations:

• Don’t overload the salad—choose 1–3 mix-ins to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
• Add crunchy or juicy items (like nuts or fruit) right before serving to keep them fresh.
• Taste after each addition and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve This Chicken Salad

This chicken salad without celery is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re prepping lunch, planning a picnic, or hosting guests, there are plenty of delicious and creative ways to serve it. Here are some of the best serving ideas to suit every occasion.

Classic Sandwich Style

• Bread Options: Serve the chicken salad between slices of fresh sandwich bread, whole wheat, sourdough, or multigrain.
• Extras: Add lettuce, tomato, or sliced avocado for extra flavor and texture.
• Tip: Toast the bread slightly to keep it from getting soggy.

Wrap It Up

Use flour tortillas, whole wheat wraps, or even lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Add greens like spinach or arugula and roll tightly for a neat, on-the-go meal.

Lettuce Cups or Boats

Spoon the chicken salad into large lettuce leaves (like romaine, butter, or iceberg). A great gluten-free or keto-friendly option that’s fresh and crunchy.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve over a bowl of mixed greens or spinach for a light, refreshing salad bowl. Add toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or sliced hard-boiled eggs for extra nutrition.

With Crackers or Crostini

Spoon the salad into a bowl and serve it with your favorite crackers, pita chips, or toasted crostini. Perfect as an appetizer or party dip.

Stuffed in Veggies

Try filling tomatoes, bell pepper halves, or even avocados with the salad for a unique and colorful presentation.

Chicken Salad Platter

Build a lunch platter with chicken salad in the center and sides like grapes, sliced cheese, nuts, pickles, and bread or crackers around it. Ideal for entertaining or family-style meals.

Chicken Salad Melts

Spread the salad on a slice of bread, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly. Great for a warm, comforting twist.

Pro Serving Tips:

• Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• If serving for a party or picnic, keep it cool to maintain freshness and food safety.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like dill or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Tips and Leftover Ideas

Making chicken salad ahead of time or wondering what to do with leftovers? Don’t worry—this recipe stores well and can be reused in creative, tasty ways. Follow these storage tips and ideas to make the most of your celery-free chicken salad.

How to Store Chicken Salad

Refrigerator:

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
Make sure it stays cold (below 40°F or 4°C) to maintain freshness and safety.

Do Not Freeze:

Freezing is not recommended. The mayo-based dressing can separate and change texture after thawing.

Keep Mix-Ins in Mind:

If your salad includes apples, grapes, or nuts, they may soften over time. For the best texture, add these right before serving.

Tips for Storing:

• Use a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight lid.
• Label the container with the date so you know how long it’s been stored.
• Give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and mix-ins evenly.

Leftover Ideas: How to Use Chicken Salad Creatively

Stuffed Avocados or Bell Peppers

Scoop leftover chicken salad into halved avocados or bell peppers for a healthy and filling meal.

Quesadillas or Panini

Add a spoonful between tortillas or in a sandwich press with cheese for a warm, melty twist.

Chicken Salad Wrap

Wrap it in a tortilla with spinach and shredded carrots for a quick, on-the-go lunch.

Pasta Toss

Stir into cooked, cooled pasta for a fast pasta salad version.

Baked Potato Topper

Use it as a protein-rich topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Cracker Dip or Crostini Spread

Serve with crackers or toasted bread as a simple, flavorful snack or party bite.

When to Discard Leftovers:

If the salad smells sour, has become watery, or looks discolored—throw it out. Always follow the “when in doubt, throw it out” rule for food safety.

Expert Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture

Want your chicken salad without celery to turn out just right every time? These expert tips will help you get the perfect flavor, creaminess, and balance—whether you’re making it for lunch, a party, or meal prep.

Use Cold or Room Temperature Chicken

Let your chicken cool before mixing it with the dressing. Warm chicken can melt the mayo, making the salad watery or greasy.

Shred or Dice Consistently

Keep the chicken pieces roughly the same size so every bite is evenly textured. Shredded chicken offers a softer texture, while diced chicken adds more bite.

Don’t Overdo the Dressing

Start with less dressing, then add more if needed. A good chicken salad is moist but not soggy.

Add Crunch Just Before Serving

Mix in nuts, apples, or seeds right before eating to preserve their crisp texture. This prevents them from going soft while refrigerated.

Balance the Flavors

Chicken salad tastes best with a balance of creamy, tangy, salty, and sweet. Taste after mixing and adjust with salt, lemon juice, or even a touch of honey.

Let It Chill

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the ingredients time to meld and the dressing to soak in.

Try a Flavor Twist

Add a pinch of curry powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to switch up the flavor. A few drops of hot sauce or sriracha give it a spicy edge if you like heat.

Use High-Quality Ingredients

Fresh, well-seasoned chicken and good-quality mayo make a big difference in taste. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin for a lighter, cleaner flavor.

Keep It Fresh

Make only what you’ll use within 3–4 days. If preparing ahead for an event, store the chicken and dressing separately, and mix just before serving.

Chicken Salad Without Celery Recipe

Looking for a chicken salad without celery recipe? Discover a creamy, flavorful chicken salad made with simple ingredients—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 9 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

For the salad

• 2 chicken breasts rotisserie style cooked and shredded
• 8 radishes halved and finely sliced
• 7 g fresh parsley roughly chopped
• 3 green onions finely sliced

For the mayo dijon dressing

• 5 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon runny honey
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Method

 

1. First up, shred, chop and slice all of your chicken salad ingredients and add them to a large bowl.
2. Next, combine all of the chicken salad dressing ingredients in a bowl. Taste and season with salt, pepper, or more honey based on your preference.
3. Pour your dijon-mayo dressing over the chicken salad and then toss with spoons so that the salad ingredients are coated in the dressing. Then serve up and enjoy!