The Best Chicken Salad Recipe Without Celery (Still Creamy & Crunchy!)

Not everyone loves celery, and if you’re one of those people, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s the texture, the taste, or a dietary restriction, skipping celery doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the flavor or crunch in your favorite chicken salad. In fact, this chicken salad recipe without celery is proof that you can still enjoy a creamy, satisfying bite with all the right textures, minus the stringy stalks.

I created this recipe for my own picky eaters (and fellow celery-haters), and it’s become a go-to lunch, potluck favorite, and meal prep essential. It’s easy to make, loaded with protein, and fully customizable with crisp, refreshing ingredients that add both bite and balance.

In this post, you’ll get:

• A step-by-step chicken salad recipe with no celery
• The best substitutes for celery that still bring the crunch
• Pro tips for storing, serving, and customizing your salad
• FAQs to help you get it just right

So, whether you’re prepping sandwiches, stuffing wraps, or just need a fast and flavorful dish that skips the celery, this recipe’s got you covered.

Let’s get into it!

Why Skip Celery in Chicken Salad?

Let’s be real, celery is… polarizing. Some people love the crisp, watery crunch, while others find it stringy, bland, or just totally unnecessary. And if you’ve ever crunched into a chicken salad sandwich and thought, “Ugh, why is this even here?” you’re not alone.

In fact, there are plenty of good reasons you might want to ditch the celery:

• Texture issues – It can feel tough or stringy, especially if not chopped super fine.
• Taste preferences – Not everyone’s into that slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
• Allergies or sensitivities – Yup, celery allergies are a thing.
• Availability – Sometimes, it’s just not in the fridge, and your chicken salad craving can’t wait.

The good news? You can still have a chicken salad that’s creamy, flavorful, and full of crunch and contrast, without a single stalk in sight.

We’re going to show you how to build a bowl that’s better than the classic, using fresh, simple swaps that you may already have on hand. Think sweet, juicy apples, refreshing cucumber, or even a little zingy pickle action.

Ready to upgrade your lunch game celery-free? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the best creamy, crunchy, no-celery chicken salad:

Cooked Chicken

Shredded, chopped, or diced, whatever you’ve got!

• Rotisserie chicken? Perfect.
• Leftover grilled or roasted chicken? Even better.
• Poached or canned in a pinch? Totally works.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a mix of breast and thigh meat for the best balance of flavor and moisture.

Mayonnaise (or Greek Yogurt)

Classic mayo gives that rich, creamy base, but Greek yogurt is a great lighter option.

• Want both? Use a 50/50 blend for creaminess with a tangy twist.
• Vegan? Use your favorite plant-based mayo.

Celery Substitutes (Choose One or Mix a Few)

Here’s where we get creative. These ingredients bring crunch, contrast, and character, no celery needed.

• Chopped apple – Sweet and crisp (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great)
• Cucumber – Refreshing and clean; peel if you want it extra tender
• Bell pepper – Adds crunch and color
• Diced pickles or relish – Tangy with a salty bite
• Chopped grapes – Sweet pop of flavor (great if you like Waldorf-style salads)
• Nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans) – For rich, toasty crunch

🥄 Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Apple + walnut is a classic combo, and pickles + red bell pepper bring a zesty, colorful twist.

Dijon Mustard (Optional but Recommended)

Adds depth and a subtle kick that balances the creaminess. Yellow mustard works too, but Dijon gives it that extra something.

Lemon Juice or Vinegar

A little acid brings everything to life and keeps the flavor bright. Just a squeeze of fresh lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar does the trick.

Salt, Pepper, and Optional Fresh Herbs

Simple seasoning goes a long way. Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can add a fresh finish if you have them on hand.

That’s it! With this flexible, no-celery ingredient list, you can make a chicken salad that feels just right for your taste, whether you’re team creamy, team tangy, or somewhere in between.

Next up: Let’s break down exactly which celery substitutes work best (and why).

Best Substitutes for Celery in Chicken Salad

Here’s a breakdown of the best celery alternatives, what they add, and why they work:

1. Apples

Crisp, sweet, and juicy, perfect if you love a little contrast in every bite.

• Best varieties: Granny Smith (tart + crisp) or Honeycrisp (sweet + snappy)
• Great for: Classic or Waldorf-style chicken salads
• Bonus: Adds natural sweetness and a refreshing crunch

🧠 Why it works: It mimics celery’s crunch but adds more flavor and depth.

2. Bell Peppers

Mild, crunchy, and colorful, bell peppers are a vibrant, low-calorie swap.

• Best colors: Red for sweetness, green for a sharper edge
• Texture: Crunchy and clean, with no stringiness
• Bonus: Adds a pop of color to your plate

🧠 Why it works: Like celery, bell peppers are fresh and crisp, but with more personality.

3. Cucumber

Cool, refreshing, and super hydrating, especially great in summer.

• Peel or keep the skin on depending on your texture preference
• Chop small to avoid excess water
• English cucumbers are best (fewer seeds, more crunch)

🧠 Why it works: Gives a light, clean crunch that balances creamy ingredients.

4. Pickles or Relish

For a punch of tang, salt, and texture, pickles make things exciting.

• Use dill pickles for sharpness, sweet relish for a sweeter profile
• Chop finely to distribute flavor evenly
• Go easy, pickles can overpower if overused

🧠 Why it works: Adds crunch and briny flavor, which balances richness beautifully.

5. Grapes

A classic twist if you like a hint of sweetness in your salad.

• Red or black seedless grapes work best
• Slice in half or quarters depending on size
• Pairs perfectly with nuts and a Greek yogurt base

🧠 Why it works: The soft burst of sweetness plays well with the savory chicken.

6. Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans, Almonds)

Toasty, nutty crunch that makes your chicken salad feel gourmet.

• Chop roughly for texture without dominating each bite
• Toast lightly for deeper flavor
• Especially great with apples or grapes

🧠 Why it works: Replaces the crunch factor of celery with more richness and depth.

Bonus Option: Red Onion or Shallots

Want a little bite? Add thin slices or minced pieces for a zingy upgrade.

• Use sparingly to avoid overpowering
• Soak in water first to mellow the flavor

🧠 Why it works: Offers sharpness and crunch in small doses.

👩‍🍳 Pro Tip:

Feel free to mix and match these celery substitutes to find your perfect texture combo. For example:

• Apple + walnut = sweet & nutty
• Cucumber + bell pepper = ultra fresh & crunchy
• Grape + pecan + Greek yogurt = light, sweet, and satisfying

Step-by-Step Instructions (With Pro Tips)

This chicken salad recipe without celery comes together in minutes, and once you’ve made it, you’ll probably never go back to the classic version. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick lunch, this version is creamy, crunchy, and endlessly customizable.

Here’s how to make it:

✅ Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

You’ll need about 2 to 3 cups of cooked chicken, chopped or shredded.

• Rotisserie chicken is the easiest option, juicy and flavorful right out of the container.
• Leftover grilled or roasted chicken? Perfect.
• Even canned chicken works in a pinch, just be sure to drain it well.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the chicken cool completely before mixing to avoid a watery salad.

✅ Step 2: Chop Your Crunchy Add-ins (No Celery, No Problem)

Choose one or more of the celery alternatives we talked about:

• 1/2 cup diced apple
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber or bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles or grapes
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)

Dice everything into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture.

✅ Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt, or a combo of both)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds a flavor boost)
• 1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Taste it and adjust, it should be tangy, creamy, and well-balanced.

✅ Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl:

1. Add your chicken.
2. Toss in your chopped fruits, veggies, or nuts.
3. Pour the dressing over the top.
4. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

💬 Pro Tip: If it feels too thick, add a tablespoon of milk, water, or more lemon juice to loosen it up.

✅ Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor

While you can serve it right away, chicken salad tastes better after chilling for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This gives the flavors time to meld and keeps the texture crisp and fresh.

🍽️ Bonus: It keeps well for up to 3–4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

✅ Step 6: Serve It Your Way

Your no-celery chicken salad is now ready to shine! Here are a few tasty ways to serve it:

• On toasted sourdough or croissants
• Stuffed into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
• With crackers or cucumber slices for snacking
• In a bento box with fruits and nuts

Expert Tips to Make It Even Better

You’ve got the basics down, but let’s take your chicken salad without celery to the next level with these simple (but game-changing) tips. These are the little tricks I’ve learned from years of making this for picky eaters, potlucks, and lazy Sundays alike.

1. Let It Chill (Even Just 30 Minutes)

Sure, you can eat it right away, but if you’ve got the time, let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

• The flavors blend together more evenly.
• The dressing firms up a bit, so it’s not too runny.
• The texture actually improves as the ingredients soak in that creamy goodness.

🧊 Meal prepping? It gets even better the next day.

2. Adjust Creaminess to Your Liking

Some people like their chicken salad thick and chunky. Others want it super creamy and spreadable. There’s no wrong way, just make it work for you.

• Too dry? Add a spoonful of mayo, Greek yogurt, or even a splash of milk.
• Too wet? Add more chicken or a handful of chopped nuts to soak it up.

✨ This is your salad, your rules.

3. Don’t Skip the Crunch

Celery might be out, but crunch is still king. Adding just one crisp element can totally transform the bite.

• Toasted walnuts or pecans = nutty depth
• Fresh apple or cucumber = sweet + refreshing
• Chopped bell pepper or pickles = tangy and bold

🥄 Try mixing two for a layered texture that feels gourmet.

4. Taste and Season Like a Chef

One of the easiest ways to ruin a chicken salad? Under-seasoning.

• Salt brings out all the other flavors.
• Black pepper adds just enough bite.
• A dash of garlic powder or onion powder? Chef’s kiss.

🌿 Bonus: Fresh herbs (like dill or chives) add color and brightness, especially in summer.

5. Change the Base, Change the Vibe

Want a lighter version? Go for all Greek yogurt.
Craving something heartier? Use sour cream + mayo for a richer bite.
Need dairy-free? Use vegan mayo and load up on herbs and acidity.

This recipe’s strength is in how flexible it is, you can tweak it to match your mood or dietary needs.

6. Make It Once, Eat It All Week

Chicken salad is the ultimate meal prep hero.

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days
• Great for sandwiches, wraps, snack plates, or stuffing into pita bread
• Just give it a little stir before serving, some separation is normal

🧺 It travels well too, picnic, lunchbox, road trip? Done.

These little tweaks are what take your no-celery chicken salad from “just okay” to “can I get the recipe?” Every. Single. Time.

How to Serve Chicken Salad Without Celery

You’ve made the perfect creamy, crunchy, celery-free chicken salad… now what?

One of the best things about chicken salad is how incredibly versatile it is. Whether you’re putting together a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, there are tons of easy (and fun) ways to serve it up, no celery required.

Here are some delicious, tried-and-true ways to enjoy it:

1. Piled High on Toasted Bread or a Croissant

You cannot go wrong with a good old-fashioned chicken salad sandwich.

• Use sourdough, whole grain, brioche, or a buttery croissant
• Add a layer of lettuce or spinach for freshness
• Optional: tomato slices, avocado, or a slice of cheese

🥪 Perfect for a quick lunch or low-effort dinner.

2. Stuffed in Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option)

Trying to keep it light? Swap the bread for crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.

• Still satisfying, super fresh, and keto/paleo-friendly
• Bonus: Easy to prep and eat on the go

🥗 Think chicken salad tacos… but leafy!

3. Scooped Into a Meal Prep Bowl

Meal prep lovers, this one’s for you.

• Add a big scoop of chicken salad to a bento box with:
  • Crackers or pita chips
  • Fresh fruit
  • A handful of nuts
  • Veggie sticks (cucumber, carrots, bell pepper)

🧊 Stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days, grab and go all week.

4. Served in Mini Phyllo Cups or on Cucumber Rounds (Party App!)

Need a fun appetizer? Chicken salad makes a great party bite.

• Spoon it into mini phyllo cups or hollowed-out cucumber slices
• Garnish with fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika

🎉 Fancy without the fuss.

5. On Top of a Baked Potato or Sweet Potato

Warm, comforting, and totally underrated.

• Slice open a baked potato and top with a scoop of chilled chicken salad
• Try it with a sweet potato for that sweet-savory combo

🍽️ This combo is surprisingly next-level.

6. Straight From the Bowl (No Judgement Here)

Let’s be honest… sometimes you just want to grab a fork and dig in.

😅 We’ve all been there, and this version totally delivers on its own.

✨ Customize How You Serve It

Mix and match based on what’s in your kitchen, your cravings, or your schedule. This chicken salad without celery fits into whatever kind of meal you’re feeling—from fancy to fridge-raid.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this chicken salad recipe without celery? It’s just as good (if not better) the next day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or stashing leftovers, here’s how to keep it fresh, flavorful, and fridge-friendly.

How to Store It

• Fridge: Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Shelf life: It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days, thanks to the mayo/yogurt-based dressing and cooked chicken.
• Best containers: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight lids to avoid moisture loss or weird fridge smells.

🧠 Avoid leaving chicken salad out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, food safety first!

Can You Make It Ahead?

Absolutely, and you should.
Chicken salad tastes even better after a little chill time. Making it a few hours or a day in advance lets the flavors blend and the texture set just right.

Here’s how to prep ahead like a pro:

• Chop your mix-ins (like apples, cucumbers, grapes, or nuts) and store them separately if you’re worried about sogginess.
• Mix the dressing and chicken first, then stir in crunchy ingredients right before serving for max texture.

⏰ If you’re making it for a party or picnic, this make-ahead trick is a total time-saver.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?

Technically? Yes.
Do we recommend it? Not really.

While cooked chicken freezes well, the mayo or yogurt-based dressing doesn’t hold up great in the freezer, it can separate and turn watery after thawing.

❄️ If you must freeze it, leave out the creamy dressing and add it fresh after thawing.

Bonus Tip: Repurpose Leftovers

Don’t want to eat the same thing three days in a row? No worries.

• Day 1: Chicken salad sandwich
• Day 2: Lettuce wraps with avocado
• Day 3: Chicken salad stuffed sweet potato or bento box

Boom! three meals, zero boredom.

Chicken Salad Recipe Without Celery

Creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor, this easy chicken salad recipe skips the celery but keeps everything you love. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, and meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Resting time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course healthy meals, Salad

Cuisine American, gluten free

Servings 5 Servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• Spoon or Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Cooked chicken Shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Or Greek yogurt or a mix of both
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard Optional
• 1 tsp Lemon juice Or apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper To taste
• 1/2 cup Apple Chopped Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
• 1/4 cup Chopped walnuts Toasted optional
• 1/4 cup Cucumber Diced small
• 1/4 cup Grapes Halved or quartered optional
• 2 tbsp Fresh herbs Dill parsley, or chives (optional)

Instructions

 

• Prep the chicken: Make sure the cooked chicken is cool, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
• Chop the mix-ins: Dice apples, cucumbers, grapes, and walnuts into small pieces for even texture.
• Make the dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
• Mix it all together: In a large mixing bowl, add chicken and your chopped mix-ins. Pour the dressing on top and stir gently to combine.
• Chill the salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
• Serve your way: Enjoy in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, meal prep bowls, or straight from the bowl!

Notes

• Feel free to customize with your favorite crunchy mix-ins.
• For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low carb when served without bread.
• Best enjoyed within 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Keyword chicken salad without celery, Creamy chicken salad, easy chicken salad recipe, no celery chicken salad

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a chicken salad recipe without celery that’s creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re skipping celery because you don’t like it, can’t have it, or just want something different, this version checks all the boxes.

✅ Easy to make
✅ Totally customizable
✅ Meal-prep and lunchbox friendly
✅ Packed with texture and flavor, no stringy celery in sight

Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to. And the best part? You can tweak it a hundred ways depending on what you’ve got in the fridge.

💬 Ready to Try It?

If you make this chicken salad, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your own creative twist.

Looking for more refreshing, naturally gluten-free ideas?
👉 Check out our complete guide to gluten-free salads, from zesty quinoa bowls to hearty greens, there’s something for every craving.