Easy Chicken Salad Recipes | Classic, Healthy & Seasonal Variations

Chicken Salad Recipes: How to Mix for the Perfect Flavor

Chicken salad is the ultimate meal chameleon, equally at home in a sandwich, wrap, or lettuce cup. With a perfect mix of lean protein, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing, it’s ideal for healthy lunches, meal prep, and light dinners.

This basic chicken salad recipe offers endless customization options, ranging from classic and creamy to vibrant Mediterranean and tangy Asian styles.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 celery stalk finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp red onion minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl.
2. Add chopped celery, red onion, and parsley for crunch and freshness.
3. Mix in mayonnaise, a bit of lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir everything until the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add a bit of honey or apples for a sweet touch.

Seasonal Chicken Salad Variations

Try these refreshing summer salad ideas here.

Spring: Herb-Lemon Chicken Salad Recipes

• Add chopped parsley, dill, and a touch of lemon zest.
• Serve on a bed of baby greens or in butter lettuce cups.

Summer: Tropical Chicken Salad Recipes

• Mix in the diced mangoes, pineapple, and shredded coconut.
• Replace the mayo with Greek yogurt and lime juice for a light twist.

Autumn: Harvest Chicken Salad Recipes

• Add apple cubes, cranberries, and toasted walnuts.
• Use a maple-Dijon dressing for a cozy, sweet-savory balance.

Winter: Creamy Avocado Chicken Sala Recipes

• Mash one ripe avocado into the dressing.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for warmth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve between whole-grain bread slices or on a croissant for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
• Scoop over mixed greens or spinach for a light lunch.
• Wrap in lettuce cups or tortillas for low-carb options.
• Use as a protein-packed meal prep for quick weekday lunches.

See more healthy lunch ideas.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad Recipes

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
• Chill before serving. It tastes best cold and slightly marinated.
• Add texture with nuts, seeds, or crunchy veggies.
• Keep the dressing light by using a mix of yogurt and mayo.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Learn more quick meal prep tricks.