Beagle Bagel chicken salad combines tender shredded chicken and crisp celery for that classic deli-style crunch. Mixing in a creamy, tangy dressing coats every bite with flavor, perfect for picnics or simple lunches. Spread it on toasted bagels or scoop onto fresh greens for a satisfying meal that comes together quickly. This version delivers fresh, familiar taste with minimal effort for hungry appetites any day of the week.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .
Ingredients for beagle bagel chicken salad recipe
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this wonderful, savory chicken salad with celery and relish. I love how this quick lunch with creamy chicken and bagels comes together from such humble, fresh components.
For the Chicken Salad
- Cooked chicken breast – Shred it nice and fine for the best texture.
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base that brings it all together. Go for your favorite brand.
- Celery – Finely chopped for a refreshing crunch.
- Red onion – Finely chopped for a sharp, vibrant bite.
- Sweet pickle relish – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
- Fresh dill – Chopped for a herby freshness that really elevates the flavor.
- Dijon mustard – A little goes a long way for a subtle kick.
- Garlic powder – For that savory depth.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground is always best.
- Salt – Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
For Assembling
- Everything bagels – Sliced and toasted to perfection.
- Lettuce leaves – Crisp and fresh, they add the perfect crunch to each bite.
Cook Time for Chicken Salad Bagels
I adore that this is truly an easy chicken salad recipe, coming together in just 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s my secret weapon for a no-cook chicken salad for bagel sandwiches when life gets busy but I still want something delicious.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
For those days when you need to stretch your ingredients, I often turn to this simple tuna salad as another fantastic sandwich filler.
How to Make Beagle Bagel Chicken
Making this beagle bagel chicken salad feels like a little ritual in my kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and fills the house with the most comforting aroma of toasted bagels.
Step 1: Combine the Salad
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, pickle relish, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 2: Mix Thoroughly
Use a rubber spatula to mix until all ingredients are evenly combined and the chicken is fully coated in the creamy dressing. Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or black pepper if needed.
Step 3: Toast the Bagels
Lightly toast the sliced bagels in a toaster until they are golden brown and crisp around the edges. The toasting should take 1–2 minutes, depending on your toaster settings.
Step 4: Assemble the Base
Place one lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted bagel. The lettuce should lie flat to provide a crisp base for the chicken salad.
Step 5: Add the Filling
Divide the chicken salad mixture evenly among the four bagels, spooning it generously over the lettuce leaves. Ensure each bagel is well-filled with the salad for a satisfying portion.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Top each serving with the remaining bagel halves to form sandwiches. Press gently to secure the layers together. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this beagle bagel chicken salad recipe even more special. Here are my favorite ways to tweak it for different tastes and occasions.
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, swap the fresh dill for tarragon or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. It completely transforms the profile!
- Diet Tweak: To lighten it up, I sometimes use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, which still gives a lovely creaminess.
- Texture Fix: If you prefer a smoother chicken salad, pulse the ingredients a few times in a food processor instead of mixing by hand.
- Storage Tip: The chicken salad itself keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store it separately and only assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bagels from getting soggy. For more make-ahead ideas, check out my favorite bean salad that also holds up well.
beagle bagel chicken salad recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 everything bagels sliced
- 4 lettuce leaves
Equipment
- Rubber spatula
- toaster
- measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, pickle relish, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Stir all ingredients together with a rubber spatula until evenly combined and the chicken is fully coated in the creamy dressing.
- Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- Lightly toast the sliced bagels in a toaster until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- Place one lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted bagel.
- Divide the chicken salad mixture evenly among the four bagels, spooning it generously over the lettuce leaves.
- Top each serving with the remaining bagel halves to form sandwiches. Serve immediately or wrap tightly in parchment paper for portable meals.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
I always like to know what’s going into our family meals, and this creamy chicken salad on toasted bagels brings more to the table than just incredible flavor. It’s a satisfying lunch that balances protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables for lasting energy.
Using lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein to keep you full, while the celery and onion add fiber and vitamins. The mayonnaise contributes healthy fats, but you can easily adjust the amount based on your preferences.
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Protein | Supports muscle health and keeps you satisfied |
| Celery Fiber | Aids digestion and adds crunch |
| Dill Antioxidants | Contains beneficial plant compounds |
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, you might enjoy pairing this with my gluten-free bagel option. If you’re looking for another protein-packed lunch idea, this grilled chicken salad is another family favorite. According to this everything bagel seasoning chicken salad technique, the right spice blend can enhance both flavor and nutritional value.
A Lighter Version of Quick Lunch Bagel Recipe
Sometimes I want that same comforting chicken salad bagel experience but with a lighter touch. Over the years, I’ve discovered simple swaps that keep all the flavor while cutting back on calories.
Instead of regular mayonnaise, try using Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise for the creamy base. You’ll still get that wonderful texture but with less fat and more protein. I also increase the celery and add diced apples for extra crunch and natural sweetness.
For the bagels themselves, whole grain or protein bagels add more fiber and nutrients. If you’re watching sodium, simply reduce or omit the added salt – the other seasonings provide plenty of flavor. Another great option is my cottage cheese bagels, which add extra protein while keeping things light.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
When my aunt started managing her blood sugar, I began paying closer attention to how we could enjoy our family favorites in a more diabetic-friendly way. It’s amazing how small tweaks can make classic recipes work for sugar-conscious diets without sacrificing the joy of eating.
For a lower glycemic version of this beagle bagel chicken salad recipe, I sometimes use sugar-free sweet pickle relish or simply omit it altogether. You can also try natural sweeteners like stevia in place of any added sugars. Portion control helps too – I serve smaller amounts on open-faced bagel halves or even lettuce cups instead of traditional sandwiches.
If you’re avoiding gluten, simply choose your favorite gluten-free bagels and check that your mayonnaise and relish brands are gluten-free. The beauty of this savory chicken salad with celery and relish is how adaptable it is to different dietary needs while still feeling special.
How to Serve beagle bagel chicken salad recipe
I’ll never forget the first time I served these chicken salad bagels at our family picnic years ago. My cousin’s children, usually picky eaters, devoured them and asked for seconds! Now it’s our tradition to make these for casual gatherings and sunny afternoon lunches on the patio.
For a complete meal, I love pairing these sandwiches with simple sides like carrot sticks, fresh fruit, or a light quinoa salad. The crisp textures balance the creamy chicken perfectly. In warmer months, I often serve them with iced tea or lemonade, while in cooler weather, a warm tomato soup makes the perfect companion.
For parties, I sometimes make mini versions using air fryer bagels cut into smaller rounds – they’re always the first appetizer to disappear! However you choose to serve this easy chicken salad recipe, it brings that wonderful combination of comfort and freshness that makes any meal feel special.
Mistakes to Avoid
I learned the hard way that even the simplest recipes can go sideways when we rush or take shortcuts. For this beagle bagel chicken salad recipe, I’ve had my share of kitchen mishaps over the years, and I’m happy to share what I’ve discovered so you can avoid them too.
One common mistake is overdressing the salad. Too much mayonnaise or yogurt makes it soggy and heavy. I always start with less dressing than I think I need, then add more gradually until it reaches that perfect creamy consistency without drowning the chicken.
Another error is using warm chicken. If you add dressing to warm chicken, it becomes watery and loses its texture. I make sure my cooked chicken is completely chilled before mixing, which keeps everything fresh and satisfying.
Finally, don’t skip the resting time! Letting the salad chill for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For more tips on perfecting chicken dishes, check out my classic chicken salad recipe with additional techniques. According to this classic chicken salad bagel sandwich recipe, proper seasoning balance is crucial for the best flavor. If you’re looking for alternative protein options, my tuna salad recipe follows similar preparation principles.
How to Store beagle bagel chicken salad recipe
When my daughter started taking these sandwiches to school, I became an expert at storing them properly to keep that fresh-made taste. There’s nothing worse than opening a lunchbox to find a soggy, separated chicken salad bagel.
For short-term storage, keep the chicken salad separate from the bagels in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days this way. I recommend using glass containers as they don’t absorb odors and keep the flavors pure.
If you need to freeze it, the chicken salad freezes well for up to 2 months without the vegetables. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh celery and onions before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch. For other make-ahead lunch ideas, my bean salad recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge too. You might also enjoy my Greek chickpea salad for another storage-friendly option that travels well.
Try This beagle bagel chicken salad recipe Yourself
I still remember the first time I served these at our family reunion – my cousin’s husband, who never cooked, asked for the recipe and now makes it every week! That’s the beauty of this easy chicken salad recipe – it turns hesitant cooks into confident ones.
Whether you’re packing lunches for school, preparing for a picnic, or just craving something satisfying, this beagle bagel chicken salad recipe delivers every time. The combination of creamy chicken salad with toasted bagels creates that perfect quick lunch bagel recipe that feels both special and comforting.
I hope you’ll give this everything bagel chicken salad a try in your own kitchen. For more inspiration, you might enjoy my cauliflower potato salad or caprese pasta salad for variations on the theme. Whatever you choose to make, I’d love to hear how it turns out for your family!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making chicken salad?
The most common mistakes include using warm chicken (which makes the dressing watery), overdressing the salad, and not letting it chill properly before serving. I always make sure my chicken is completely cool and start with less dressing than I think I need, then adjust gradually.
What is Dolly Parton’s favorite chicken salad?
While I can’t speak to Dolly’s personal preferences, traditional Southern chicken salad often includes grapes, pecans, and sometimes a touch of sweetness. My version keeps it simple with celery and relish, but you could certainly add those elements for a more festive twist.
What are the 4 ingredients in chicken salad?
At its most basic, chicken salad needs cooked chicken, mayonnaise, some crunchy vegetable like celery, and seasonings. My beagle bagel chicken salad recipe builds on these fundamentals with relish, onions, and dill for extra flavor dimensions that make it special.
What ingredients are in a beagle bagel?
The “beagle” in this recipe refers to the bagel itself, which typically contains flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes sweeteners. For this chicken salad bagel recipe, I prefer everything bagels for their added flavor, but you can use any type you enjoy. Check out my gluten-free bagels if you need alternatives.
More Cozy Salad Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this chicken salad creation, you might want to try these other family favorites that always disappear from our table.
Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels – Wholesome bagels with extra protein that make any sandwich better.
Cottage Cheese Bagels – Light, fluffy bagels that add creaminess to your breakfast or lunch routine.
Grilled Chicken Salad – A heartier salad option with smoky grilled flavors for warmer days.
Fresh Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed grain salad that makes perfect picnic fare.
