Get ready to take your chicken salad game to the next level! With these 20 mouthwatering recipes, you’ll never get bored with the same old flavors again. From classic combinations to bold twists and international inspirations, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of chicken salads, exploring a variety of ingredients, dressings, and flavor profiles that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
So, without further ado, let’s start our culinary journey and discover 20 flavorful chicken salad recipes that are simply divine!
Classic Chicken Salad with Celery and Onion
A timeless favorite, this chicken salad recipe combines the tender sweetness of cooked chicken with the crunch of fresh celery and onion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, celery, and onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the salad onto mixed greens and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado Chicken Salad with Lime Dressing
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the zesty brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, avocado, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixed greens among four plates and top each plate with the chicken salad.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the tanginess of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts and the richness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, cranberries, walnuts, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls.
4. Spoon the chicken salad on top of the greens.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cranberries and walnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad
Get ready to kick up your salad game with this spicy buffalo chicken salad! This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo wings with the crunch and freshness of a garden salad, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, blue cheese, celery, bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve on top of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece and Italy, featuring juicy chicken, creamy feta cheese, and briny olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Divide mixed greens among four plates or containers.
5. Top each plate with the chicken-feta-olive mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Curry Chicken Salad with Apples and Raisins
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory Curry Chicken Salad, featuring tender chicken, crunchy apples, and juicy raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, curry powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper; toss until well coated.
3. Top with mixed greens, diced apples, and raisins.
4. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pesto Chicken Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy and Spain, featuring tender chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pesto, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: none)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Dill
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this Greek yogurt-based recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in celery and red bell pepper.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chill)
BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn and Black Beans
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken salad, this BBQ-inspired recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, juicy corn, and hearty black beans for a refreshing summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– Croutons or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breast until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Let chicken rest before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
5. Add shredded chicken, corn kernels, black beans, and oregano to the bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Divide mixed greens among individual plates or serving bowls.
8. Spoon BBQ Chicken mixture over the greens.
9. Garnish with croutons or chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the tanginess of sesame and ginger, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Slice cooked chicken into thin strips and add to the salad bowl.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together grated ginger and remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Sprinkle blue cheese on top (if using).
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Chicken Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing Caprese-inspired dish, featuring juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Add to the salad bowl and toss to combine.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (recipe below) and serve immediately.
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
Combine ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened. Let cool before using.
Pineapple Chicken Salad with Coconut Flakes
Pineapple Chicken Salad with Coconut Flakes Recipe
Experience a tropical twist on traditional chicken salad with the sweetness of pineapple and crunch of coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut flakes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, pineapple, mayonnaise, honey, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Stir in the coconut flakes until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + refrigeration time
Tarragon Chicken Salad with Grapes
Tarragon Chicken Salad with Grapes Recipe
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the subtle anise flavor of tarragon with sweet grapes and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, and tarragon.
2. Add the diced chicken and toss until coated with the dressing.
3. Stir in mixed greens until well combined.
4. Gently fold in halved grapes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tex-Mex Chicken Salad with Jalapeños
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad! This Tex-Mex inspired recipe adds a spicy kick from jalapeños and a burst of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips, crushed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top (if using).
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
A classic salad gets a boost from crispy homemade croutons and juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (see below)
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Croutons:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, make croutons: Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, homemade croutons, and sliced chicken.
6. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Strawberry Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a bed of crisp spinach leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves and diced chicken.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and spinach mixture; toss to combine.
4. Top with sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken Waldorf Salad with Apples and Walnuts
A classic salad gets a delicious twist with the addition of juicy chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add the crumbled blue cheese and stir until combined.
3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl with the dressing and toss until coated.
4. Add the chicken mixture to the bowl with the greens and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5-7 minutes, cooking time: n/a)
Southwest Chicken Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the bold flavors of the Southwest with the brightness of lime and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Cilantro Lime Dressing (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, and red onion.
2. Add the diced chicken breast and toss to combine.
3. Top with crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese.
4. Drizzle with Cilantro Lime Dressing and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cilantro Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Cobb Salad with Avocado and Blue Cheese
Savor the rich flavors of this delectable salad featuring grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and tangy blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled bacon, diced avocado, blue cheese, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and add to the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken salad game with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic combinations like celery and onion to bold flavors like spicy buffalo and Mediterranean, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some crunch with pecans or walnuts, or get creative with ingredients like apples, grapes, and pineapple. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, these chicken salad recipes are sure to please.