Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be a refreshing lunch, a hearty dinner, or a perfect side for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option or something to impress at a potluck, chicken salad never disappoints. With countless variations, it’s easy to find a recipe that suits your taste and dietary needs.
Classic Chicken Salad Recipes
Classic chicken salad recipes never go out of style. These timeless classics are perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.
Traditional Mayo-Based Chicken Salad
Mix shredded chicken, mayo, and celery for this simple yet satisfying traditional recipe. Add a bit of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or between two slices of whole grain bread.
Caesar Chicken Salad
Combine romaine lettuce, grilled chicken slices, and Caesar dressing for this flavorful twist. Toss in some croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For extra zest, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
Chicken Waldorf Salad
Blend cooked chicken chunks with apples, grapes, and walnuts to create this delightful recipe. Mix in some Greek yogurt or mayo for creaminess, and add a touch of lemon juice. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat.
Greek and Mediterranean Chicken Salads
Discovering Greek and Mediterranean chicken salads can add zest and nutrition to any meal.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Using Greek yogurt as a base makes for a creamy yet healthy chicken salad. I like to mix shredded chicken, diced cucumbers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped dill. This combination creates a refreshing, protein-packed meal. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of feta cheese and a handful of Kalamata olives to enhance the tangy flavor.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad
The vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean shine in this chicken salad. I combine grilled chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers. Adding some crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil with lemon juice makes it all come together. The fresh herbs, like mint and parsley, elevate the taste, making it a perfect dish for a summer lunch.
Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Infusing chicken salad with tzatziki sauce brings a delightful twist. I start with shredded chicken and mix it with homemade tzatziki, which includes Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. I usually add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onions for extra crunch. Wrapping this salad in whole-wheat pita bread creates an easy, on-the-go meal.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad Recipes
Asian-inspired chicken salads bring a unique blend of flavors and textures. They’re perfect for those looking to add an exotic twist to their meal routine.
Thai Chicken Salad
Thai chicken salad hits all the right notes with its combination of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors. I use shredded chicken, julienned carrots, red cabbage, and fresh cilantro. A zesty dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of honey ties everything together. Crushed peanuts add a delightful crunch.
Chinese Chicken Salad
Chinese chicken salad is a delightful mix of savory and crunchy components. I mix shredded chicken with romaine lettuce, mandarin oranges, and crispy wonton strips. A dressing made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil adds depth. Toasted almonds on top give it just the right amount of crunch.
Sesame Chicken Salad
Sesame chicken salad is all about nutty flavors. I start with a base of mixed greens, add shredded chicken, and toss in sliced bell peppers and cucumber. The dressing combines sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for a rich taste. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for a perfect finishing touch.
Healthy Chicken Salad Options
When you’re looking for guilt-free yet delicious chicken salad options, these healthy recipes are perfect. Each one is packed with nutrients and flavor, making them ideal for any meal.
Avocado Chicken Salad
Avocado Chicken Salad delivers creamy texture without the extra calories from mayo. I combine shredded chicken, ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro tie everything together, creating a refreshing and healthy dish.
Kale and Chicken Salad
Kale and Chicken Salad offers a powerhouse of nutrients. I start with fresh kale, massaging it with olive oil to soften its texture. Adding shredded chicken, sliced apples, and walnuts provides a great balance of protein, crunch, and sweetness. A light vinaigrette made from apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey enhances the flavor.
Quinoa Chicken Salad
Quinoa Chicken Salad is a protein-packed option that’ll keep you full for hours. I mix cooked quinoa with shredded chicken, diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Topped with a lemon-tahini dressing, this salad delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, while offering a great source of fiber and protein.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Chicken Salads
Exploring low-carb and keto-friendly options is key for maintaining specific dietary goals without sacrificing taste. Here are three chicken salad recipes that fit perfectly into these categories.
Spinach Chicken Salad
Spinach Chicken Salad packs a nutritional punch without the carbs. I start with fresh spinach as the base, adding shredded chicken, sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. For dressing, I use a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard. This salad offers a vibrant, fresh taste while staying low in carbohydrates.
Cucumber Chicken Salad
Cucumber Chicken Salad is incredibly refreshing and light. I combine shredded chicken with diced cucumbers, celery, and green onions. A mix of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill creates a creamy, tangy dressing, keeping the carb count minimal. This salad is perfect for a crisp, cooling meal on a hot day.
Zoodle Chicken Salad
Zoodle Chicken Salad uses zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a fun low-carb pasta alternative. I mix shredded chicken with zoodles, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. A dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic ties everything together. This light, nutritious dish keeps me on track with my keto diet and adds a flavorful twist to traditional pasta salads.
Creative and Unique Chicken Salads
When it comes to chicken salads, pushing the boundaries can lead to some exciting and flavorful combinations. Here’s a look at some innovative variations you’ll love.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Craving something spicy? Buffalo chicken salad delivers a delightful kick. Combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, crisp celery, and crumbled blue cheese for an irresistible mix. Top with fresh greens and a drizzle of ranch dressing for added creamy texture.
BBQ Chicken Salad
BBQ chicken salad is perfect for summer gatherings. Mix grilled chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce, corn, black beans, and shredded cheese. Serve over a bed of lettuce and add a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist.
Pesto Chicken Salad
Pesto chicken salad brings an Italian flair to your meal. Combine shredded chicken with basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls. Add arugula for a peppery note and pine nuts for crunch. This salad is best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread.
Quick and Simple Chicken Salads
Sometimes, you need a quick meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. These easy chicken salads are perfect for those busy days when you want something fast and delicious.
Five-Minute Chicken Salad
Got just a few minutes? This Five-Minute Chicken Salad is a game-changer. Combine shredded chicken with mayo, Dijon mustard, and a bit of lemon juice. Add diced celery and onions for crunch. Season with salt and pepper. Serve on whole-grain bread or lettuce leaves for a light, satisfying meal.
Chicken and Berry Salad
Need something fresh and fruity? This Chicken and Berry Salad is your go-to. Mix shredded chicken with fresh spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Toss with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Top with slivered almonds for some added crunch.
Chicken and Apple Salad
Craving something sweet and savory? Try this Chicken and Apple Salad. Combine shredded chicken with diced apples, red onions, and celery. Dress it with a creamy mixture of Greek yogurt, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle with walnuts for a deliciously crunchy finish.
Conclusion
With these 21 easy chicken salad recipes, you’ll never run out of delicious and diverse options to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a classic, a healthy twist, or something unique, there’s a recipe here to suit every palate and occasion. Chicken salad’s versatility makes it perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or impressive dishes for gatherings. So go ahead, experiment with these recipes, and find your new favorite chicken salad. Happy cooking!