Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, cooled slightly, and shredded into bite-sized pieces. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. This forms the creamy, tangy base of the salad.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the shredded chicken, diced celery, and halved green grapes into the mayonnaise mixture. If using nuts, incorporate them at this stage.
Step 4: Season and Adjust: Season the chicken salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise or sour cream to achieve the desired consistency. For an extra touch of tang, add a bit more lemon juice or Dijon mustard.
Step 5: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled on croissants, crackers, lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture. For a sweeter flavor, consider using honey mustard instead of Dijon.