When I search for “comfort food” images, I’m presented with the standard: mac and cheese, pasta, cheesy everything, potatoes. All deliciousness. Everything beautifully filling. Food that I L-O-L-O-L-O-L-O-V-E (iykyk). Stick-to-your-ribs dishes that are warm.

When I think of “comfort food”, I’m brought back to my mom and grandma. I’m thankful that this type of food is subjective. I define comfort food, I think of memorable, nostalgic dishes often shared over and over again with some of my most favorite people.

Chicken salad is IT for me. The ultimate comfort food. My version calls for a little bit of mayo, a lot of Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, dill and bread & butter pickles. The chicken salad can be served alone, next to apples or on crusty bread. Croissants always accepted.

However, chicken salad is extremely versatile, and the flavor combinations can be close to endless.

Favorite Chicken Salad Combos

Traditional Chicken Salad

Roasted chicken with mayo, Dijon, salt, pepper, lots of dill with crushed pickles

Veggie and Chicken Salad

Traditional chicken salad and add sliced red tomatoes into the mix and top with tomatoes and/or red peppers. The more veggies, the better.

Crunchy Chicken Salad

Traditional chicken salad and add sliced almonds to the mix. Top with crispy chopped romaine. Make sure to keep it primarily chicken salad with a touch of lettuce!

Spicy Chicken Salad

Traditional chicken salad and mix in a little siracha, top with arugula.

Sweet and Savory Chicken Salad

Traditional chicken salad paired with sliced apples and white chedder.

There are so many other combinations to try … like right now, I’m thinking adding Everything But The Bagel Seasoning!

More to come but for now, enjoy my ultimate comfort food.