Creamy chicken salad without celery—made with (1) chicken, (2) grapes, (3) apple, (4) red onion, (5) mayo, (6) mustard. Fresh, crunchy, perfect for wraps.
Chicken Salad Without Celery Recipe
Looking for a chicken salad without celery recipe that’s just as crunchy and flavorful? This creamy chicken salad skips the celery but keeps the texture and taste you love by using ingredients like crisp apples, juicy grapes, and tangy red onion.
It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or light lunches. Whether you’re avoiding celery due to allergies, personal preference, or simply don’t have any on hand, this recipe delivers a satisfying, refreshing twist on the classic. It’s a go-to dish for meal prep, picnics, or busy weeknights—ready in just 30 minutes!
Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 2 cups | Rotisserie or poached |
| Red onion | ¼ cup | Finely chopped |
| Red apple | 1 | Diced (for crunch) |
| Grapes (halved) | ½ cup | Optional |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Or Greek yogurt |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | Adds tang |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black pepper | To taste |
This combination delivers crunch, sweetness, and creaminess—no celery needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken – Shred or dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop mix-ins – Dice apples, halve grapes, and finely chop red onion.
- Mix the dressing – In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine everything – Add chicken, fruits, and onion to the dressing. Stir gently until fully coated.
- Chill before serving – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
This creamy chicken salad is light, tangy, and naturally crunchy without relying on celery.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Crunchy twist: Use diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or toasted almonds.
- Sweet contrast: Add dried cranberries or chopped pineapple.
- Healthy swap: Replace mayo with plain Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
- Herb boost: Mix in fresh parsley, dill, or chives for flavor.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of paprika, curry powder, or cayenne.
These creative substitutions keep the chicken salad refreshing and versatile for different tastes and dietary needs.
Serving Ideas
Serve this chicken salad without celery in multiple creative ways:
- Sandwiches & Croissants: Spoon generously onto buttery croissants or whole grain bread for a hearty lunch.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a light, low-carb option, wrap scoops of salad in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
- Salad Bowls: Top a bed of mixed greens or spinach with a big scoop of chicken salad.
- Crackers or Pita Chips: Perfect for quick snacks or party platters.
- Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados: Hollow out and fill for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Keep the chicken salad in a sealed container in the fridge and enjoy within 3–4 days.
- Stir before serving to redistribute dressing and flavors.
- Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches during the week.
- Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.
- Prep ingredients separately (chicken, fruit, dressing), then combine before serving to keep textures fresh.
Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor
- Chill before serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge at least 30 minutes for flavors to blend.
- Balance textures: Mix creamy elements (mayo/yogurt) with crisp ingredients like apples or cucumbers.
- Season well: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice just before serving.
- Use fresh chicken: Rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken gives better flavor than canned.
- Don’t overmix: Stir gently to avoid breaking down chicken pieces or crushing fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken salad on buttery croissants, whole grain bread, or as lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It also pairs well with crackers, pita pockets, or over a bed of mixed greens for a light lunch.
For meal prep, portion the salad into containers and refrigerate to enjoy throughout the week. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon wedge before serving to enhance its visual appeal and flavor.
This versatile dish works for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches, offering a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional celery-based chicken salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What can I use instead of celery in chicken salad?
Use diced cucumbers, bell peppers, apples, grapes, or pickles for crunch.
Q2: How can I make chicken salad healthier?
Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for fewer calories and more nutrients.
Q3: Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store chilled.
Q4: How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Q5: What’s the best way to serve chicken salad without celery?
Serve on croissants, bread, lettuce wraps, or with crackers
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
