Simple Chicken Salad Recipes

21 Simple Chicken Salad Recipes You’ll Want to Make Again & Again!

Hey! So, I’ve got some of the best chicken salad recipes to share with you today. They’re perfect for just about any occasion. Are you a salad lover?

Yeah? Great! I’ve collected a bunch of chicken salad ideas that are healthy, easy to make, and super flavorful. They can really save you time, especially when you need a quick chicken salad for lunch or want something healthy for a protein-packed meal prep idea.

You know what’s cool? Chicken salad is so versatile. You can keep it classic and creamy, or mix it up with something like a Mediterranean twist—think feta and olives. And if you like a little heat, have you ever tried a Buffalo chicken salad? It’s a game-changer!

Simple Chicken Salad Recipes

And don’t get me started on how you can serve it. You can throw it into a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce, or just eat it straight out of the bowl—whatever you’re feeling!

Honestly, why spend a ton of money on store-bought deli salads that are loaded with preservatives? Making your own is way better! It takes just about 10 minutes to make healthy chicken salad at home, and it’s fresher, cheaper, and you can customize it however you like. Also, I’ve got low-carb and gluten-free options too, if that’s something you’re into.

If you get some meal prep containers, you could have lunches ready for the whole week. Sounds pretty convenient, right? Let’s figure out what recipes might work best for you!


Related: Kolkata Style Chicken Kathi Roll


21 Simple Chicken Salad Recipes You'll Love


Related: High Protein Salad Bowls


🥗 Why Chicken Salad Recipes Are the Perfect Go-To Meal

Let’s be honest—some nights you just don’t feel like cooking a big, complicated dinner. That’s exactly where chicken salad recipes come in. They’re quick, healthy, and ridiculously versatile. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, follow a high-protein diet, or just need a budget-friendly meal prep idea, chicken salad checks every box.

Here’s why people (including me!) love turning to chicken salad as the ultimate go-to meal:

  1. Healthy but Filling – Chicken is a lean protein, so it keeps you full without making you feel stuffed. Just toss in some crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, or Greek yogurt, and you’ve got a balanced meal—great for weight loss or muscle gain.
  2. Super Versatile – Seriously, if you’re bored of the same old meals, chicken salad can go in a wrap, on toast, in lettuce cups, or you can just eat it straight from the bowl. You want low-carb, keto, gluten-free, or dairy-free? Chicken salad’s got you covered, no matter your lifestyle.
  3. Meal Prep Friendly – Let’s face it—life gets busy. Chicken salad lasts for 3–4 days in the fridge, making it one of the best meal prep ideas for lunch and dinner. It’s portable, affordable, and way cheaper than grabbing takeout.
  4. Flavor Options Are Endless – Classic mayo-based? Fresh avocado twist? Spicy buffalo version? Or maybe a tangy Mediterranean-style with olives and feta? No matter what you’re craving, there’s a chicken salad recipe for it.

👉 Tip: If you’re looking for something light but satisfying, go for a Greek yogurt or avocado-based chicken salad. If you want comfort food, stick with a classic creamy chicken salad. And if you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, lettuce wraps or a no-mayo version will be your best bet.

At the end of the day, chicken salad isn’t just “another recipe.” It’s the kind of meal that fits into any lifestyle—whether you’re trying to lose weight, save money, meal prep for the week, or simply whip up a quick lunch in under 10 minutes.


Related: Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe


🔑 Healthy Guide: What Makes a Great Chicken Salad

Simple Formula Of Chicken Salad)

Every winning chicken salad recipe balances four things: protein, texture, creaminess, and flavor. Nail these and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser every time.

  • Protein: shredded rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breast, or leftover roasted chicken — pick based on time and taste.
  • Texture / crunch: celery, apple, cucumber, toasted nuts, or seeds for contrast.
  • Creamy binder: mayo, Greek yogurt, avocado, or a combo — each drives a different angle: classic, light, or paleo-friendly.
  • Flavor lift: herbs, citrus, mustard, curry powder, or hot sauce. Acid + salt = magic.

Healthy swaps that actually taste great

Want a lower-calorie or higher-protein chicken salad without losing flavor? Here’s what people actually do:

  • Mayo → Greek yogurt: keeps creaminess, cuts calories, bumps protein.
  • Mayo + avocado: half mayo, half mashed avocado for richness with better fats.
  • White bread → lettuce/wrap: makes it low-carb and perfect for meal prep bowls.
  • Add quinoa or chickpeas: if you want a heartier, balanced bowl (great for lunch or post-workout).

Which base should you choose?

Ask yourself: Are you aiming for low-calorie, keto, ultra-creamy, or a sandwich filling? Pick one base:

  • Greek yogurt: Best for low-calorie and high-protein chicken salad.
  • Mayo: Classic texture and flavor — great for sandwiches and parties.
  • Avocado: Keto-friendly, full-fat, and silky-smooth.
  • Oil + vinegar or vinaigrette: Light and Mediterranean-style (pairs well with olives & feta).

Quick rule: if you’re meal-prepping for weight loss → choose Greek yogurt; if you want decadence → choose mayo or avocado.

Flavor-building: small add-ins, big payoff

Hey, you know what? Mix-ins really make a dish unique, right? Like, if you’re craving sweet and sour chicken salad, just toss in some grapes and toasted pecans, and it’s a game-changer! But if you’re in the mood for something spicy instead, go for buffalo sauce and throw in some scallions. It’s that easy! Here’s a quick cheat-sheet to remember!

  • Sweet: grapes, apple, dried cranberries, honey mustard.
  • Savory: bacon bits, roasted red pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan.
  • Crunch: almonds, walnuts, pepitas, water chestnuts.
  • Herbs & brightness: cilantro, parsley, chives, lemon zest.

Health, safety & storage

Keep your chicken salad fresh and safe: store in airtight containers, use within 3–4 days, and don’t leave it at room temp for more than two hours. For nutrition context, chicken is a lean, high-quality protein that pairs well with veggies for a balanced meal.

For more on chicken nutrition and safe handling, check this reliable source: Healthline.

Quick meal-prep tips (save time, eat better)

  • Shred rotisserie chicken for a fast base.
  • Mix dressing separately and toss only before serving if prepping for more than a day (keeps crunch).
  • Portion into 3–4 airtight containers for an easy weekly lunch rotation.

Suggested: White Bean Caprese Salad


🍴 Serving Suggestions for Chicken Salad Recipes (Fast, Healthy, Crowd-Pleasers)

You can serve it in lots of different styles, like using lettuce cups for a low-carb option or packing it into meal-prep bowls that are super healthy and full of protein. Just take a quick look through these ideas, pick what sounds good to you, and you could have a delicious meal tonight. It’s all simple, affordable, and perfect for healthy lunch ideas, quick weeknight dinners, or preparing meals for the week. Let’s make eating healthy fun and tasty!

Chicken salad sandwich on toasted sourdough with lettuce and tomatoes
Everyday Favorite

Chicken Salad Sandwiches & Wraps

Toasted sourdough, whole-grain bread, or tortilla wraps—classic, fast, and kid-friendly. Add crunch with celery, pickles, or cabbage. For extra protein, slip in a hard-boiled egg.

  • Use whole-grain for fiber
  • Add leafy greens for volume
  • Press in a panini for a melty finish
Chicken salad served in butter lettuce cups
Low-Carb & Keto

Lettuce Cups & Stuffed Veggies

Scoop chicken salad into butter-lettuce cups, halved avocados, tomatoes, or cucumbers. Big flavor, minimal carbs, perfect for keto diet meal plans and weight-loss lunch ideas.

  • Add avocado for creamy healthy fats
  • Top with everything-bagel seasoning
  • Finish with lemon for brightness
High-protein chicken salad grain bowl with quinoa and greens
Meal-Prep Power

Protein Bowls (Quinoa, Brown Rice, Farro)

Build a macro-balanced bowl: grains + greens + chicken salad + a juicy element (grapes, mango, or cherry tomatoes). Drizzle with Greek yogurt dressing. Packs well for office lunch meal prep.

  • Portion in best meal prep containers
  • Add nuts/seeds for crunch
  • Keep dressing on the side
Chicken pasta salad for picnic
Picnic-Perfect

Chicken Pasta Salad

Toss your chicken salad with al dente pasta, peas, and herbs. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, and barbecue sides.

  • Use short pasta (fusilli, rotini)
  • Thin with a splash of pasta water
  • Keep chilled until serving
Chicken salad on croissant and artisan toast
Brunch Upgrade

Toasts, Bagels & Croissants

Feeling fancy? Pile high on toasted sourdough, seeded bagels, or flaky croissants. Add arugula and a squeeze of lemon. Great for brunch catering or weekend vibes.

Snack board with chicken salad, crackers, and veggies
Party-Ready

Snack Boards & Crackers

You can make a big bowl of chicken salad and serve it with some whole-grain crackers, cucumber chips, carrots, and mini pitas. It’s super easy to prepare, doesn’t cost much, and it’s perfect for game day or when you have friends over at the last minute. Trust me, it’s a hit!

Chicken salad melt with cheese in a skillet
Warm & Cozy

Melts, Quesadillas & Stuffed Pitas

You can take some chicken salad, spread it on bread, and add some cheese on top. Then, just sauté it until it gets all golden and crispy.
If you want something different, you can also put the chicken salad in a quesadilla instead. It’s super simple and takes only about 10 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Also, I bet everyone in your family will love it!

Chicken salad tacos and pita pockets
Global & Fun

Tacos, Pita Pockets & Sushi Bowls

Layer into corn tacos with slaw, stuff into warm pita with cucumber and feta, or roll into nori bowls with rice and sesame. Big flavor, minimal effort.

Not sure which way to serve? Use this quick decision guide.
If you want low-carb: go lettuce cups or stuffed avocados.
If you need grab-and-go: meal-prep bowls in best meal prep containers with dressing on the side.
Feeding a crowd: snack board + mini pitas or slider rolls.
Cozy dinner: pressed melts or quesadillas with a side salad.
Picnic/potluck: chicken pasta salad—stays tasty and travels well.

Pro tip: keep a batch of healthy chicken salad in the fridge and rotate these serving ideas all week. It’s the easiest path to budget-friendly meal prep, weight-loss lunch ideas, and protein-rich dinners without spending on takeout.


Related: Broken Egg Salad Recipe


🥑 Variations and Customizations for chicken salad recipes

Here, let’s dive into the exciting world of chicken salad variations and how you can customize the recipes to fit your tastes. Chicken salad is super versatile, which means you can tweak it in so many ways!
I’ll talk about different ingredients you can add or swap out, so you can make a chicken salad that’s perfect just for you. Whether you want it to be healthier, spicier, or even a little sweeter, I’ll share some fun ideas to help you create your own version. Get ready to explore and get creative with your chicken salads!

🤔 Quick Pick: Tell me your goal, I’ll tell you the base

✅ Light & High-Protein

Use 0% Greek yogurt + lemon + dill.

  • Best for: weight loss meal plan, high protein diet
  • Try with: celery, cucumbers, grapes

🔥 Low-Carb / Keto

Avocado + a little mayo + lime + jalapeño.

  • Best for: keto lunch, low carb recipes
  • Serve in: lettuce wraps or stuffed avocado

🥪 Deli-Style & Creamy

Classic mayo + Dijon + paprika + chives.

  • Best for: sandwich meal prep, family-friendly dinners
  • Use rotisserie chicken for speed

1) Choose Your Base

Mayo (rich & classic), Greek yogurt (tangy & high protein), Avocado (creamy & keto), or a 50/50 blend (best of both).

Food safety first: store cooked chicken at ≤4°C (40°F) and eat within 3–4 days.

2) Add Crunch & Color

Celery, red onion, cucumber, apple, grapes, cranberries, pecans, almonds, and sunflower seeds are very good choice.

3) Flavor Profiles (Pick One)

  • Mediterranean: olive oil, lemon, oregano, feta, olives
  • Buffalo: hot sauce + ranch or blue cheese
  • Curry: mild curry powder, raisins, cilantro
  • Southwest: lime, cumin, corn, black beans, avocado
  • Caprese: basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella

4) Diet Filters

  • Keto/Low Carb: no fruit, add avocado, bacon, olive oil; serve in lettuce cups.
  • Gluten-Free: skip pasta/bread; use GF wraps or lettuce.
  • Dairy-Free: avocado or mayo base; skip yogurt/feta.
  • Paleo/Whole30: avocado + compliant mayo; herbs + lemon.

5) Protein & Texture Upgrades

  • Add hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
  • Stir in cottage cheese (blended for ultra creamy, or chunky for bite).
  • Use shredded rotisserie chicken when short on time.

6) Dressing & Acidity

To make a delicious dressing, start by balancing creamy ingredients with something tangy like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. If you want it a bit sweeter, you can add a little honey or maple syrup. For extra flavor, season it with Dijon mustard, garlic, fresh dill, parsley, or chives. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!

7) How to Serve It

  • Lettuce cups (low carb, keto-friendly)
  • Whole-grain toast or sourdough (fiber + flavor)
  • Stuffed avocado (healthy fats)
  • Meal prep bowls with quinoa, arugula, cucumbers
  • Pita pockets or collard wraps

8) Budget & Time Savers

  • Use canned chicken in a pinch—drain well & add extra lemon.
  • Batch-poach chicken breasts; shred and freeze in meal-size packs.
  • Rotisserie shortcuts + pre-chopped salad kits for 5-minute meals.

9) Make-It-Ahead Tips

  • Toss chicken + dry mix-ins first; fold dressing right before serving for max crunch.
  • Store in airtight containers; keep greens/toppings separate.
  • Refresh with lemon and a splash of olive oil on day 2–3.

Ready to Prepare?

First, you pick a base—this could be something like lettuce or spinach. Then, you choose a flavor lane, like spicy or zesty. After that, just add one crunchy thing, like nuts or croutons, and then throw in one fresh herb, like parsley or cilantro. And that’s it! You’ve just made a healthy, high protein chicken salad that’s perfect for any day. How awesome is that?


Related: Mississippi Chicken Recipe


FAQs on Chicken Salad Recipes

1. How long does homemade chicken salad last in the fridge?
About 3–4 days if stored in an airtight container and kept at or below 40°F (4°C). If you use mayo, stick to 3 days; if you use Greek yogurt or avocado, consume within 2–3 days for best texture. For a longer, meal-prep friendly option, choose rotisserie chicken + vinaigrette style or keep dressing separate until serving.
2. Is chicken salad healthy — or is it just a high-calorie sandwich filler?
It can be both — depends on ingredients. Swap full-fat mayo for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado, add lots of veggies (celery, apple, grapes, bell peppers), and you have a healthy chicken salad that’s high in protein and moderate in calories. For weight loss, focus on portion control and choose whole-food add-ins. Tip: Aim for 30g+ protein per serving to keep you full — use shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for a fast, high protein chicken salad.
3. What’s the best chicken to use for the easiest chicken salad recipes?
Rotisserie chicken is the fastest hack — shred it and you’re done. Poached or roasted chicken breasts also work great. For extra flavor, use grilled chicken for Mediterranean or BBQ chicken salad variations. If you want low carb chicken salad, choose shredded breast meat and skip sugary add-ins like dried cranberries.
4. Can I make chicken salad ahead for meal prep, and how should I package it?
Yes — make the chicken base 2–3 days ahead and store in airtight containers. If you’re doing full meal prep bowls, layer ingredients (greens, chicken salad, toppings) and keep dressing in a small jar to add right before eating. Mason jars and divided bento boxes work best for freshness.
5. What are easy mayo-free chicken salad alternatives?
Try mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, tahini, or a light vinaigrette. These options make your chicken salad lighter and often healthier — perfect for low calorie or high protein chicken salads. Avocado gives creaminess and healthy fats; Greek yogurt boosts protein.
6. Which chicken salad is best for weight loss or low-carb diets?
Go for a keto / low carb chicken salad: shredded chicken breast, mayo or avocado, celery, green onion, and herbs. Skip sweet fruits and starchy mix-ins. Use lettuce cups instead of bread to keep carbs down. If you track macros, aim for 20–40g protein and under 10–15g net carbs per serving for a solid low-carb lunch option.
7. Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended for classic mayo-based chicken salads — texture changes when thawed. If you must, freeze plain shredded chicken (no dressing) and add dressing after thawing. Curried chicken salad with mayo and apples also suffers in texture. Freeze components (chicken separately) and assemble when needed — that gives the freshest results and better flavor.
8. What are the best mix-ins for flavor and texture?
Try crunchy celery, toasted pecans or almonds, sweet grapes or apples, dried cranberries for sweetness, fresh herbs (dill, parsley), and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. For Asian or Southwest versions, include sesame seeds, green onion, black beans, or corn.
9. Which chicken salad recipe is best for kids and picky eaters?
For a simple meal, take some shredded chicken and mix it with a little light mayo or Greek yogurt. You can add tiny pieces of apple or seedless grapes, and just a bit of honey or lemon for flavor. You can serve this mix as a sandwich or in a wrap. Kids usually like creamy textures and mild tastes. Keep texture consistent (finely chopped) and introduce one new ingredient at a time to avoid rejection.
10. How can I make a restaurant-style chicken salad at home?
Use a rotisserie chicken for flavor depth, add toasted nuts for crunch, fold in finely diced herbs, and season with flaky sea salt and fresh lemon juice. Serve on artisan greens or buttery croissants for that restaurant feel. Tip: Toast the nuts and add freshly cracked pepper — small touches that make home chicken salad taste premium.
11. Which chicken salad is best for high protein and muscle recovery?
For a high protein chicken salad, use shredded chicken breast, Greek yogurt (instead of mayo), add edamame or quinoa, and toss in seeds (pumpkin, hemp) for extra protein and healthy fats. This is ideal post-workout meal prep.
12. What are quick dressings that level up simple chicken salad recipes?
Quick winners: lemon + olive oil + Dijon, Greek yogurt + honey + mustard, or a splash of apple cider vinegar + mayo. For an exotic twist, add curry powder to mayo for a curried chicken salad variant.
13. Where should I start if I want the absolute easiest chicken salad recipe?
Start with a rotisserie chicken + mayo (or Greek yogurt) + celery + salt & pepper. It’s fast, satisfying, and a great base you can customize into Mediterranean, curry, or Buffalo styles.

Suggested: Slow Cooker Chicken and Creamed Corn


21 Simple Chicken Salad Recipes (Quick & Healthy)

Simple Chicken Salad Recipes

Ingredients

  • Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
  • Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad
  • Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
  • Mediterranean Chicken Salad
  • Buffalo Chicken Salad
  • Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
  • Asian Sesame Chicken Salad (Better Than Panera's!)
  • BBQ Chicken Salad
  • Curried Chicken Salad
  • Chicken and Apple Salad
  • Cranberry and Pecan Chicken Salad
  • Southwest Chicken Salad
  • Chicken Cobb Salad
  • Chicken Caprese Salad
  • Chicken Quinoa Salad
  • Chicken and Kale Salad
  • Chicken Pasta Salad
  • Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Perfect for Meal Prep
  • Chicken Taco Salad
  • Chicken Waldorf Salad
  • Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Instructions

  1. Choose any of the wonderful chicken salad recipes from the list above.
  2. Cook according to the instructions provided.
  3. Enjoy.

Did you make this recipe?

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