Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Prepare the chicken by tossing it with olive oil, granulated onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seasoned chicken to a baking dish and loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of at least 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) at its thickest part.
Cool and Dice: Allow the chicken to cool for at least 10 minutes at room temperature before refrigerating it for an hour or more. Once chilled, dice the chicken into ยผ-inch by ยฝ-inch pieces.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, diced celery, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for 1 to 2 hours, or overnight if possible. The flavors meld beautifully over time, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt and black pepper if needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Deli-Style Chicken Salad is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers for a delightful meal.
This Deli-Style Chicken Salad recipe is simple, flavorful, and adaptable. Feel free to add your personal touch with additional ingredients like nuts for crunch, grapes for sweetness, or a dash of curry powder for a unique twist. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and the delicious results!
