Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be both a quick lunch and a gourmet meal. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, there’s a chicken salad recipe out there for you. I’ve compiled 19 easy chicken salad recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Why Chicken Salad?
Chicken salad offers diverse culinary experiences. Packed with lean protein, it’s a great option for various dietary preferences. This dish works well for both quick meals and elaborate presentations. Its adaptability allows endless flavor combinations, including classic, spicy, and fruity variations.
Incorporating chicken salad into meals provides nutritional benefits. It combines protein, vitamins, and minerals without excess calories. Preparing these salads proves easy, requiring minimal ingredients and offering varied options, such as apples, nuts, and herbs. Various cooking methods, like grilling, baking, or poaching chicken, add to its versatility.
Chicken salad suits any occasion. It serves as a convenient lunch, picnic favorite, or elegant dinner course. The simplicity of its preparation and the richness of flavors make it a popular choice among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Basic Ingredients For Chicken Salad
Chicken salad bases rely on core ingredients to create a tasty dish. These include chicken, vegetables, seasonings, and binders, which can vary based on recipe preferences.
- Chicken: Use cooked, shredded, or diced chicken. Options include grilled chicken, poached chicken, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Vegetables: Add crunch with celery, bell peppers, or red onions. Chopped carrots and cucumber slices also add texture.
- Binders: Hold ingredients together using mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a mix of both for a lighter option. Add mustard or mashed avocado for flavor variation.
- Seasonings: Enhance taste with salt and pepper. Include herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro. Add spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or cumin for depth.
- Extras: Incorporate ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Almonds, sunflower seeds, and cranberries provide extra flavor and nutrition. Fresh herbs and citrus zest elevate the dish.
Recipe #1: Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Classic Chicken Salad combines simple ingredients for a timeless dish:
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Add lemon juice, then stir until everything’s well-mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Optional Add-Ins
To enhance the Classic Chicken Salad, consider these additions:
- Chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch
- Dried cranberries or grapes for a touch of sweetness
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve Classic Chicken Salad in:
- Sandwiches with crisp lettuce and whole grain bread.
- Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- A bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
This Classic Chicken Salad is versatile, simple to make, and perfect for any occasion.
Recipe #2: Avocado Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
First, place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and black pepper. Gently toss all ingredients until thoroughly combined.
Optional Add-Ins
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and add for extra freshness.
- Corn Kernels: Mix in 1/2 cup of corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.
- Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick, adjusting to taste.
- On Bread: Spread the chicken salad on whole grain bread for a nutritious sandwich.
- In Tortillas: Fill whole wheat tortillas with the salad for a quick and healthy wrap.
- Over Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
This Avocado Chicken Salad pairs well with various sides like sweet potato fries or a quinoa salad. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy snack.
Recipe #3: Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Ingredients
To make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:
- Combine Yogurt, Lemon Juice, Salt And Pepper: In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add Chicken And Vegetables: Add shredded chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh dill to the bowl.
- Stir Until Well Combined: Mix all ingredients until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the yogurt mixture.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Optional Add-Ins
Enhance the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with these optional add-ins:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess
- 1 tablespoon capers for a tangy flavor
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers for extra crunch
- On whole grain crackers as a light snack
- In a whole wheat pita for a hearty lunch
- Over a bed of mixed greens for a nutritious dinner
Recipe #4: Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked, shredded
- Vegetables: 1 cup shredded cabbage, 1 carrot julienned, 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced, 1/2 cup edamame
- Greens: 2 cups mixed greens
- Nuts: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Other: 3 green onions chopped, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Dressing
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons low sodium
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Oil: 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon freshly grated
- Garlic: 1 clove minced
- Honey: 1 teaspoon
- Juice: 1 lime juiced
Instructions
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Mix shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and edamame in a large bowl.
- Add Dressing Ingredients: Whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Toss Ingredients Together: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables, then toss to coat.
- Garnish Salad: Add chopped peanuts, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds on top.
- Serve Immediately: Serve over mixed greens.
Optional Add-Ins
- Fruit: Use 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments for sweetness
- Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- Herbs: Include 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for flavor
Serving Suggestions
- Wraps: Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Noodles: Toss with rice noodles to create a more substantial meal.
- Bowls: Serve as a bowl for a quick and healthy lunch.
- Chicken Preparation: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Vegetable Prep: A food processor can expedite shredding tasks.
- Dressing Storage: Store extra dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Recipe #5: Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps:
- Combine Ingredients: Place shredded chicken in a large bowl. Add pesto sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped pine nuts.
- Mix Thoroughly: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Ensure the pesto evenly coats the chicken.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil for additional freshness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes for a juicy texture.
- Avocado: Diced avocado for creaminess.
- Sandwich: Fill a whole wheat bread with the pesto chicken salad for a hearty sandwich.
- Wrap: Use a whole grain tortilla to make a wrap stuffed with the pesto chicken salad.
- Salad: Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a nutritious salad option.
Pesto chicken salad offers a rich, herbaceous taste perfect for various meals. Whether in sandwiches, wraps, or salads, it’s a delicious and versatile recipe.
Recipe #6: Caesar Chicken Salad
Ingredients
To make Caesar Chicken Salad, gather these essential ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins for enhanced flavor:
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Directions
- Combine Chicken and Dressing: Mix the shredded chicken with the Caesar dressing in a large bowl. Ensure the dressing coats the chicken thoroughly.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the chicken mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors.
- Incorporate Lettuce: Add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl, gently tossing to mix with the dressed chicken.
- Season and Serve: Season the salad with black pepper and salt. Toss in the croutons last to retain their crunchiness. If using optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes mix them in at this stage.
Serving Suggestions
Caesar Chicken Salad is versatile:
- Wraps: Fill whole-wheat wraps with the salad for a quick lunch.
- Bowl: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with extra Parmesan.
- Sandwich: Layer between two slices of crusty bread for a hearty meal.
- Appetizer: Spoon onto endive leaves for a unique appetizer.
This recipe keeps the classic Caesar flavor while incorporating succulent chicken for a satisfying and nutritious meal option.
Recipe #7: BBQ Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Directions
- Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a large bowl.
- Add diced red onion, corn kernels, black beans, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Toss mixed greens with ranch dressing in a separate bowl.
- Combine the chicken mixture with the dressed greens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Spoon the BBQ chicken salad into whole wheat wraps for a convenient meal.
- Layer the salad on top of baked tortilla chips for a BBQ chicken nacho platter.
- Fill toasted pita pockets with the BBQ chicken salad for a quick lunch option.
- Serve over a bed of brown rice and quinoa for a hearty, nutritious bowl.
- Avocado slices for added creaminess
- Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor
Recipe #8: Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Mediterranean flavors elevate this chicken salad using fresh ingredients and spices. I mix grilled chicken breasts with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. For the dressing, a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt brings everything together.
Ingredients
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese in a bowl.
- In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt.
- Pour dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss until ingredients are well coated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Salad on a bed of mixed greens, inside a whole wheat pita, or with a side of couscous for a complete meal. Optional garnishes include fresh parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of extra feta cheese.
Recipe #9: Waldorf Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken
- 1 cup of diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Red Delicious)
- 1/4 cup of chopped celery
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine chicken, apples, celery, walnuts, and raisins in a large bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, tossing until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve it on a bed of fresh lettuce or in a sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Waldorf Chicken Salad with mixed greens or a soft whole wheat roll for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it with crusty bread. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for enhanced flavor.
Recipe #10: Buffalo Chicken Salad
Buffalo Chicken Salad packs a spicy punch and is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. This one’s a crowd-pleaser at parties or for a zesty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Mix the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce in a large bowl. Ensure every piece’s well-coated with the sauce.
- Combine Veggies: Add diced celery, carrots, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Dress Salad: Add the ranch or blue cheese dressing, and mix thoroughly to combine. Adjust the dressing amount based on your preference.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pair with romaine lettuce cups, whole wheat wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
- Romaine Lettuce Cups: Use crisp romaine lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Whole Wheat Wraps: Create wraps with hearty whole wheat tortillas for a filling meal.
- Sandwich Filling: Use it as a sandwich filling with crusty bread for a robust taste.
Buffalo Chicken Salad combines the zesty flavors of buffalo sauce with the crunch of celery and carrots, balanced by the creamy dressing and tangy blue cheese.
Recipe #11: Southwest Chicken Salad
This Southwest Chicken Salad bursts with bold flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a perfect mix for a nutritious yet tasty meal.
Ingredients
List of ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
For the dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Steps to prepare:
- Combine chicken, corn, black beans, bell pepper, avocado, red onion, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Whisk lime juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve over a bed of romaine lettuce for a light option.
- Use as a filling for whole wheat tortillas to make wraps.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Recipe #12: Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Base: Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large bowl.
- Add to Taste: Stir in parsley, dill, and garlic powder until well incorporated.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the cooked shredded chicken to the bowl. Toss until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the lemon herb mixture.
- Season: Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
- On Greens: Serve the Lemon Herb Chicken Salad over mixed greens for a light meal.
- As a Sandwich: Spread it between two slices of whole-grain bread.
- In a Wrap: Use as a filling for a whole wheat wrap, adding lettuce and tomato for texture.
- With Crackers: Serve with whole-grain crackers for a quick snack.
Nutritional Benefits
Lemon Herb Chicken Salad combines lean protein with herbs rich in antioxidants. Greek yogurt adds calcium and probiotics.
This quick recipe offers a refreshing take on chicken salad, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
Recipe #13: Thai Peanut Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
- 2 green onions, chopped
Peanut Dressing
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp warm water
Instructions
- Combine chicken, red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, peanuts, and green onions in a large bowl.
- Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a separate small bowl. Gradually add warm water until smooth and creamy.
- Pour dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad pairs well with fresh lettuce wraps, warm pita bread, or on its own as a light entrée. Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
| Component | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Enjoy this vibrant, flavor-packed salad, combining the richness of peanut dressing with fresh, crunchy vegetables. This recipe offers a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Recipe #14: Curry Chicken Salad
I curated this Curry Chicken Salad recipe for those who crave a blend of exotic spices and familiar flavors. Combining tender chicken with bold curry powder and savory accents, it delivers a unique taste experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup diced apple
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Curry Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or with naan bread. Garnish with additional almonds for added crunch. For a light meal, pair it with a green salad or enjoy it on its own.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad offers a balanced mix of protein from the chicken and almonds, healthy fats from the mayonnaise, and vitamins from the apple and raisins. The curry powder not only provides flavor but also adds anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Recipe #15: Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Vietnamese Chicken Salad combines fresh vegetables and savory herbs. For this recipe, I use shredded chicken, cabbage, mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. These ingredients create a crisp and aromatic base.
To assemble the salad, I mix 2 cups of shredded chicken with 1 cup of finely sliced cabbage and 1/2 cup each of chopped mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. I add 1 julienned carrot and 1 thinly sliced cucumber for crunch.
The dressing blends lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chili for a balanced taste. I whisk together 3 tablespoons of lime juice, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 chopped chili.
For serving, I toss the salad with the dressing until everything is well-coated. I garnish it with roasted peanuts or fried shallots for added texture. This Vietnamese Chicken Salad offers a refreshing and flavorful meal option.
Recipe #16: Caprese Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Vegetables: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl.
- Incorporate Cheese: Mix in the halved mozzarella balls.
- Flavor with Herbs: Tear basil leaves and add them to the mixture.
- Dress Salad: Pour balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the salad.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss: Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve Caprese Chicken Salad on a bed of mixed greens for added texture.
- For a heartier meal, pair with crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
Recipe #17: Ranch Chicken Salad
Ranch Chicken Salad combines tender chicken with classic ranch flavors for a delicious and easy meal. I use shredded chicken, sliced green onions, and diced celery, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and crunchy elements.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix the shredded chicken, green onions, and celery in a large bowl.
- Add the ranch dressing to the bowl and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
- Ranch Dressing: For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing.
- Toppings: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Ranch Chicken Salad can be enjoyed in various ways. Personally, I like serving it on a bed of mixed greens or in a sandwich. It’s also great as a filling for lettuce wraps or scooped with crackers for a quick snack.
Recipe #18: Italian Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add Olives and Peppers: Mix in kalamata olives and roasted red peppers for added flavor.
- Cheese Combination: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the salad.
- Dressing Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy the Italian Chicken Salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Serve with: This salad pairs well with crusty Italian bread or as a filling for a wrap.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.
- Dressing Variation: Substitute the olive oil and vinegar with a creamy Italian dressing for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Recipe #19: Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.
- Prepare Dressing In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is coated evenly.
- Chill and Serve Refrigerate the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes. Serve chilled on a bed of leafy greens or as a sandwich filling.
- Balance Sweetness and Tang Adjust the honey and mustard levels to find your preferred balance of sweetness and tang.
- Crunch and Texture Ensure the pecans and celery provide a nice crunch. Substitute with walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Presentation For a colorful presentation, serve on a platter with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad highlights the tangy-sweet flavor of honey mustard paired with the creaminess of Greek yogurt. The dried cranberries and pecans introduce sweet and nutty notes, making every bite deliciously complex.
Tips For Serving And Presentation
Arranging chicken salad for serving is as important as the recipe. How it’s presented can elevate the entire dining experience. Use vibrant, fresh greens as a base for your chicken salads, like arugula, spinach or romaine. These greens add a burst of color and nutrition.
Serve chicken salads in attractive bowls or plates that complement the colors of the dish. White or light-colored dishes can make the salad’s ingredients pop. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro or chives, to enhance both the visual appeal and flavor.
Use different textures and colors in the garnishes. For instance, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, over the salad for added crunch and visual contrast. Add a few slices of colorful vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers or radishes, to create visual variety.
Incorporate edible flowers for a gourmet touch. Flowers like pansies, nasturtiums and violets can add a unique aesthetic while being entirely safe to consume. If you’re serving the salad at a gathering, consider arranging individual portions in clear cups or martini glasses for a sophisticated touch.
For an additional layer of refinement, drizzle a light dressing or vinaigrette artistically over the top of the salad just before serving. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation. The final touch can be a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of your favorite seasoning to bring all the elements together.
By focusing on these tips, you ensure that each chicken salad dish looks as good as it tastes, making your meals memorable and inviting.
Conclusion
Exploring these 19 easy chicken salad recipes has been a delightful journey. Each recipe offers something unique whether it’s the tangy sweetness of the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad or the exotic flavors of the Thai Peanut Chicken Salad. These recipes not only cater to different taste preferences but also bring a healthy and versatile option to the table.
Remember presentation matters. A beautifully arranged chicken salad can elevate your dining experience. Using vibrant greens fresh herbs and colorful vegetables can make your dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious chicken salads with your loved ones!