This Ina Garten Mustard Chicken Salad Recipe is creamy and tangy, which includes Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 15 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Mustard Chicken Salad Recipe Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced almonds, dried cranberries, or diced apples
How To Make Ina Garten Mustard Chicken Salad
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix in chicken and veggies: Add the cooked chicken, diced celery, red onion, and chopped parsley. Fold gently to coat everything evenly.
- Season to taste: Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Recipe Tips
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, it’s a great shortcut and adds flavor.
- What can I substitute for mayo? Try Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Can I make it ahead? Absolutely—make it a day ahead and store in the fridge.
- What if I don’t have whole-grain mustard? Just increase Dijon or add a bit of mustard seed for texture.
- How to make it crunchy? Add diced apples, almonds, or chopped walnuts for extra texture.
What To Serve With Mustard Chicken Salad
This salad is great on its own or with simple sides. Try it with:
- Toasted sourdough or croissants
- Crisp romaine or spinach salad
- Crackers or pita chips
- Fresh fruit salad
- Sweet potato fries
How To Store Mustard Chicken Salad
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended, as mayo-based dressings can separate after freezing.
Mustard Chicken Salad Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to drain it well and break it into chunks.
How do I make this chicken salad healthier?
Swap mayo for Greek yogurt and skip optional mix-ins like dried cranberries.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (like mustard) are certified gluten-free.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, but you can enjoy it slightly warm if freshly made.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Artichoke Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Lobster Potato Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Tomatoes Burrata Recipe
Ina Garten Mustard Chicken Salad Recipe
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes345
kcalA tangy and creamy chicken salad featuring Dijon mustard, celery, and fresh lemon juice—perfect for sandwiches or light lunches.
Ingredients
-
4 cups cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced
-
½ cup mayonnaise
-
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
-
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
2 celery stalks, diced
-
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
-
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Optional: almonds, cranberries, or apples
Directions
- Whisk mayo, mustards, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
