Table of Contents

Intro

Some recipes don’t scream for attention. They don’t rely on trends or fancy ingredients. They just quietly earn your loyalty over time. Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly that kind of dish.

The first time I tasted it, I remember thinking, Why is this so good when it’s so simple? Creamy but not heavy. Savory but fresh. Comforting without feeling boring. It tasted like something made by someone who understands balance—and respects the ingredients.

As a female chef who loves recreating iconic deli and grocery-store classics at home, this chicken salad quickly became a personal mission. I wanted that same clean flavor, that same gentle crunch, that same “just one more bite” feeling—but made in my own kitchen.

This is my version of that beloved classic. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes I never get tired of making.

What Is Straub’s Chicken Salad?

Straub’s is a well-known gourmet grocery store famous for high-quality prepared foods, and their chicken salad has reached almost legendary status. Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is known for being creamy, finely textured, lightly seasoned, and incredibly balanced.

There are no loud flavors here. No overpowering spices. No unnecessary extras. Just tender chicken, smooth dressing, gentle crunch, and seasoning that lets everything shine.

It’s the kind of chicken salad that works everywhere—sandwiches, crackers, lettuce cups, or eaten straight from the bowl when no one’s watching.

Why This Chicken Salad Works So Well

This recipe succeeds because it understands restraint. The chicken is the star. The dressing supports it instead of drowning it. Every ingredient has a job, and nothing feels random.

As a chef, I appreciate recipes like this because they remind me that elegance often lives in simplicity. And as a home cook, I love that it’s reliable. It tastes good every single time.

Equipment List

You don’t need much for this recipe, which is part of its charm.

Medium pot (for cooking chicken)
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large mixing bowl
Fork or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

That’s it. No fancy gadgets required.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 4–5 servings.

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¾ cup mayonnaise
1 celery stalk, very finely chopped
1 tablespoon finely minced onion (or sweet onion)
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Optional additions (very subtle):

A pinch of white pepper
A tiny splash of milk for extra creaminess

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Remove chicken and let it cool completely. This is important for texture.

Step 2: Chop the Chicken

Once cooled, finely chop the chicken into small, even pieces. Straub’s-style chicken salad is not chunky—it’s finely textured, almost spreadable.

Take your time here. This step makes a big difference.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, salt, pepper, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.

Taste and adjust. The flavor should be gentle, slightly savory, with just a hint of sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add chopped chicken, celery, and onion to the bowl. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.

If needed, add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen the texture.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

What Does Straub’s Chicken Salad Taste Like?

The flavor is clean, creamy, and comforting. The chicken is tender and mild. The mayonnaise adds richness without heaviness. The celery gives a soft crunch, and the onion quietly rounds everything out.

There’s no sharp bite. No strong herbs. Just smooth, balanced flavor that feels familiar in the best way.

It tastes like something you’d crave on a quiet afternoon.

The First Time I Tried to Recreate It

I’ll be honest—my first attempt was wrong. I added too much onion. Then too much seasoning. Then too many “helpful” extras.

It took a few tries to realize the magic of Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is what it doesn’t include.

Once I simplified, everything clicked.

Why Finely Chopped Chicken Matters

This isn’t a chunky chicken salad. The fine chop creates a smooth, cohesive texture that spreads beautifully and holds together.

If you rush this step, the salad feels off. If you do it right, it feels luxurious.

Tips for the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Use fresh, high-quality chicken
Don’t overcook the chicken
Chop everything finely
Season lightly and taste often
Chill before serving
Keep it simple

This recipe rewards restraint.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using rotisserie chicken (too seasoned)
Adding too much onion
Overloading with celery
Over-seasoning
Skipping the chilling time

Let the flavors settle. It’s worth it.

Easy Variations (If You Want to Change It Slightly)

Classic Deli Version

Add a tiny pinch of white pepper.

Extra Creamy

Add one tablespoon of sour cream.

Light Crunch

Add finely chopped celery leaves.

Sandwich-Ready

Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard (very subtle).

How to Serve Straub’s Chicken Salad

This chicken salad is incredibly versatile.

On white sandwich bread
In croissants
With crackers
On butter lettuce
Stuffed into tomatoes
Straight from the bowl (no judgment)

It fits any mood.

Why This Recipe Is Always in My Fridge

As a female chef, I keep recipes that make life easier without sacrificing quality. This one does exactly that.

It’s perfect for lunches, quick dinners, and last-minute guests. It feels thoughtful even when it’s effortless.

That’s the kind of recipe I treasure.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stores well for 3–4 days refrigerated
Flavor improves after a few hours
Keep tightly covered
Do not freeze (texture changes)

Is This the Exact Straub’s Recipe?

No—and that’s okay. This is a faithful recreation based on taste, texture, and balance. It captures the spirit of Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe, while still feeling homemade.

And honestly, that’s the goal.

Why Simple Recipes Like This Matter

Food doesn’t always need to impress. Sometimes it just needs to comfort. This chicken salad does that quietly and beautifully.

It’s dependable. Familiar. And deeply satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you love classic deli-style chicken salad, this Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. It’s gentle, creamy, balanced, and endlessly comforting.

Some recipes shout. This one whispers—and somehow, it stays with you longer.

And once you make it, I have a feeling you’ll keep coming back to it… just like I do.