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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
If you haven’t already, cook your chicken. You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs. For fresh chicken, simply boil, roast, or grill the chicken until fully cooked. Let the chicken cool, then chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits:**
Chop the celery and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using grapes, slice them in half, and if you’re using nuts, roughly chop them. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill should also be finely chopped.
3. **Mix the Dressing:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy dressing. You can adjust the ratio of mayo to mustard based on your preference—more mayo will make the salad creamier, while more mustard will add tang.
4. **Combine the Ingredients:**
Add the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, grapes (or cranberries), nuts, and herbs into the bowl with the dressing. Mix everything together gently, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the chicken and other ingredients.
5. **Season:**
Taste the salad and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. If you like, you can also add a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
6. **Chill and Serve:**
For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, enjoy it as a sandwich, wrap, or on top of a bed of lettuce.
### **5. Serving Suggestions for Deli-Style Chicken Salad**
While deli-style chicken salad is delicious on its own, there are many ways to serve and enjoy it. Here are a few ideas:
#### **a. Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich**
Spread a generous portion of chicken salad between two slices of whole grain bread, croissants, or a soft roll. Add some leafy greens like lettuce or spinach for extra crunch.
#### **b. Lettuce Wraps**
For a lighter, low-carb option, wrap the chicken salad in large lettuce leaves such as Romaine or iceberg. These provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
#### **c. Chicken Salad Salad**
For a more refreshing meal, serve the chicken salad on top of a bed of mixed greens, such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale. Add some sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for a filling, nutrient-packed meal.
#### **d. Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados or Tomatoes**
For a unique twist, hollow out an avocado or tomato and stuff it with chicken salad. This makes for an impressive and healthy presentation, perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
#### **e. Chicken Salad Croissant**
For an indulgent treat, serve the chicken salad in a buttery croissant. The flakiness of the croissant complements the creamy filling and adds a touch of luxury to the meal.
### **6. Conclusion: Deli-Style Chicken Salad for Every Occasion**
Deli-style chicken salad is a versatile, satisfying, and incredibly easy dish to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress guests with a simple yet flavorful dish, chicken salad delivers every time. With the flexibility to customize the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy.
So, gather your ingredients, get your mixing bowl ready, and create the perfect deli-style chicken salad that will become a staple in your home for years to come!
