1-First Step: Gather and prepare ingredients Make sure you have 2 cups of cooked, chilled chicken ready. If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and bones and shred or chop the meat. Dice 1 rib of celery and thinly slice 1 green onion. Measure 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. If using dill, chop 1 teaspoon fresh dill or have 1/4 teaspoon dried dill ready.

2-Second Step: Combine the base In a medium bowl, add the cooked chicken, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly with the dressing. Mixing the dressing with the chicken first helps the flavors meld and prevents overworking the meat.

3-Third Step: Add crunchy and aromatic components Fold in 1 rib diced celery and 1 thinly sliced green onion. Add 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. If you are using fresh dill, add the 1 teaspoon now. Toss lightly until everything is evenly distributed.

4-Fourth Step: Mix in optional ingredients If you like a touch of sweetness or extra texture, fold in up to 1 cup chopped red grapes or peeled apple, and/or 2 tablespoons chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds. These mix-ins change the mouthfeel and visual appeal and are great when serving to guests or picky eaters.

5-Fifth Step: Taste and adjust Always taste a small spoonful and adjust seasoning. Add more seasoned salt or a pinch more black pepper if needed. If the salad tastes flat, a squeeze of lemon or a teaspoon more Dijon can brighten it. Make sure flavors are balanced before plating.

6-Final Step: Serve and enjoy Serve chilled or just slightly cool. This Chicken Salad can be served as a sandwich on bread or a croissant, on crackers, over a bed of lettuce, or wrapped in lettuce leaves. For party servings, spoon into endive boats or onto cucumber rounds as an appetizer.