10 Best Chicken Salad Recipes for Easy, Quick Meals

10 Best Chicken Salad Recipes to Savor Every Bite

When it comes to quick, easy, and versatile meals, chicken salad reigns supreme. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even meal prep, this classic dish offers endless room for creativity. Whether you prefer it creamy, tangy, crunchy, or spicy, there’s a recipe out there that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Below, we’re sharing our top 10 favorite chicken salad recipes. From timeless classics to bold flavors, these ideas will make you see chicken salad in a whole new light. Get out your forks (or crackers) and dig in!

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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It
This classic chicken salad is a timeless recipe that’s incredibly versatile, quick to make, and absolutely delicious. It’s creamy, fresh, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to salads to snack platters. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or make a quick meal any time of day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded or chopped chicken (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and red onion.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir to mix everything together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions: Use it as a sandwich filling, serve it over a bed of greens, or pair it with crackers for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts

Why We Love It

This chicken salad is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy. The juicy grapes add a burst of freshness, while the walnuts give it a satisfying crunch. It’s a versatile dish—serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or scooped onto crackers for an easy appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, walnuts, and celery.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve as desired—on greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.

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Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This salad strikes the perfect balance between spicy, tangy, and fresh. The crispy Buffalo chicken pairs perfectly with crunchy veggies and creamy dressing. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
• 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
3. Toss the cooked chicken in Buffalo sauce, coating evenly. Slice into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, carrots, and avocado.
5. Top the salad with the Buffalo chicken strips and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles, if using.
6. Drizzle with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This avocado chicken salad is a game-changer! It’s creamy, flavorful, and super nutritious. By swapping out mayo for avocado, you get a healthier, heart-friendly dish that’s just as delicious. Perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or even as a light dinner option.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 large ripe avocado, mashed
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, red onion, and celery.
2. Add lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve immediately as a salad, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

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Curried Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It:

This curried chicken salad is the perfect blend of bold spices and creamy goodness. It’s quick to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether served as a sandwich filling, with crackers, or over a bed of greens, it’s a satisfying meal for any time of the day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds or cashews (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, curry powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the cooked chicken, celery, raisins, green onions, and nuts (if using) to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve as a sandwich, wrap, salad topping, or enjoy with crackers!

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Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This salad is packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a mix of textures. The juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy vinaigrette, crisp veggies, and briny olives. It’s healthy, satisfying, and super easy to make!

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
3. Add the grilled chicken slices on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
5. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.

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Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad

Why we love it
This Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of savory and sweet. The tangy cranberries and crunchy almonds add texture and flavor, making it a go-to for lunch, picnics, or even a light dinner. It’s festive, easy to make, and packed with protein!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cranberries, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired, and serve chilled. Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens!

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Spicy Sriracha Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This spicy Sriracha chicken salad is the perfect balance of heat and flavor. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and versatile enough to enjoy as a sandwich, wrap, or on its own. The Sriracha-infused creamy dressing elevates this classic dish to a new height.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the shredded chicken, celery, and green onions to the bowl. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning or Sriracha for desired heat level.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld. Enjoy as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens!

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Lemon Herb Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of bright citrus, fresh herbs, and tender chicken. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether served as a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the chicken)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and feta cheese.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
5. Add the sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, flavorful dish!

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BBQ Chicken Salad Recipe

Why We Love It

This BBQ chicken salad is the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory. It’s hearty enough for a full meal but still fresh and vibrant. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an easy weeknight favorite or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
• 6 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup crispy tortilla strips
• Ranch dressing or extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts in BBQ sauce and grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice into strips.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cheddar cheese, and tortilla strips.
3. Top with Chicken: Add the sliced BBQ chicken on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing or extra BBQ sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Toss everything together and dig in!

Read More: Top 6 High-Protein Chicken Recipes to Try Today

A World of Flavors in Every Bite

From classic recipes to bold new twists, chicken salad offers incredible versatility and flavor. Whether you’re planning an easy family lunch or just sprucing up your workday meals, these recipes have you covered. 

Which one will you try first? Be sure to share your creations on social media and tag us—we’d love to see your delicious chicken salad masterpiece! 

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