Cook and Shred Chicken:If you’re starting with raw chicken, cook it first (boiling, baking, or using a rotisserie chicken is a quick way). Allow it to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the Dressing:In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
Combine the Ingredients:Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish into the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Add Nuts and Herbs (Optional):If you like a bit of crunch, add sliced almonds or pecans to the salad. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also be added for extra flavor.
Chill and Serve:For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. It allows the flavors to meld together.