Are you tired of the same old hot summer salads? Look no further! This season, we’re trading in our heavy, rich dishes for light, refreshing, and utterly delicious cold chicken recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s. From classic salads to international-inspired dishes, these 20 cold chicken recipes will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long.
Whether you’re a fan of Asian flavors, Mediterranean vibes, or good old-fashioned comfort food, we’ve got you covered with our diverse range of ideas. Think crispy tacos filled with spicy cold chicken, refreshing pasta salads infused with lemon and herbs, and even sushi rolls featuring chilled chicken and avocado – yes, really!
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering recipes, sharing secrets for marinating, seasoning, and assembling the perfect summer salad. So grab a glass of iced tea, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of cold chicken bliss!
Cold Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with a tangy twist on classic chicken salad. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the chicken, scallions, sesame seeds, cucumber, and carrots to the bowl. Toss until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 10-12 minutes, cooking time: 0 minutes)
Herb-Infused Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This herb-infused lemon chicken pasta salad combines the tanginess of lemons with the earthy flavor of herbs, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the herb-lemon mixture.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to pasta.
6. Stir in cherry tomatoes and chopped parsley.
7. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cold Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday! This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a tangy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
4. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing chicken onto tortillas and topping with avocado salsa and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Chilled Chicken and Mango Curry Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet mango, and creamy curry sauce, all cooled to perfection on a hot summer day. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mango, and curry powder.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken and mango mixture; toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, making it a quick and easy option for any time of day.
Cold Chicken Caesar Wraps
Get ready for a refreshing twist on the classic chicken wrap! This recipe combines juicy chicken, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy lettuce all wrapped up in a soft tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mixed greens, and Caesar dressing. Toss until the chicken is fully coated.
2. Lay out a tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of the wrap.
3. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling.
4. Fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat cylinder. Repeat for remaining ingredients.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Thai Cold Chicken Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this Thai-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, crunchy noodles, and a tangy dressing for a flavorful and light meal perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cilantro, scallions, red bell pepper, and peanuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and honey.
4. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked noodles and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad sandwiches, this recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the savory flavor of cooked chicken and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sandwich buns
– Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Add diced chicken, red bell pepper, and cucumber to the bowl; mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixture among four sandwich buns.
5. Top with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cold Chicken Caprese Skewers
A refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad, these skewers combine juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your refrigerator to the coldest setting.
2. Thread chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella slices onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are served chilled.
Chilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
A refreshing and healthy bowl perfect for hot summer days, packed with protein-rich chicken, nutty quinoa, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the top and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for quinoa and chicken)
Cold Chicken Waldorf Salad
This classic salad is a refreshing blend of juicy chicken, crunchy fruit, and savory nuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With its creamy dressing and pop of color from the grapes, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup celery sticks, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, and celery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until coated.
4. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as it’s a cold salad!
Vietnamese Cold Chicken Spring Rolls
These refreshing spring rolls are a popular Vietnamese snack or appetizer, perfect for hot summer days or any time you crave a light and flavorful treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking required, you can enjoy these delicious rolls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked rice noodles, broken into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or at an Asian market)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, noodles, cilantro, mint, soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cold Chicken and Avocado Sushi Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi, these cold chicken and avocado rolls are perfect for a light and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, chilled
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange sliced avocado along the middle of the rice.
4. Place cooked chicken breast slices on top of the avocado.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation only)
Chilled Chicken and Cucumber Gazpacho
This Chilled Chicken and Cucumber Gazpacho recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and temperatures to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. With the addition of juicy chicken and crunchy cucumber, this soup-turned-salad becomes a refreshing twist on the classic gazpacho.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken, cucumbers, bell pepper, breadcrumbs, feta cheese (if using), olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cucumber slices or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Cold Chicken and Pesto Pasta
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the creaminess of pesto with the tanginess of cold chicken for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, cooled
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled chicken breast, pesto sauce, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the chicken-pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicken and Rice Paper Salad Rolls
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful and healthy salad rolls. Made with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant herbs, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Rice paper wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cooked rice, cilantro, bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and lime juice. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
3. Lay a rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the salad mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat bundle. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and assembly)
Cold Chicken and Berry Spinach Salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for a warm day or as a healthy lunch option. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet berries, and tangy spinach will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves and mixed berries.
2. Add the diced chicken breast and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar, and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is served chilled or at room temperature.
Chilled Chicken and Corn Chowder
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional chowders! This chilled soup is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, corn kernels, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired.
6. Serve chilled, but not too cold.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cold Chicken and Hummus Stuffed Pitas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and healthy pita pockets, packed with juicy chicken, creamy hummus, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 large pita breads
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the pita breads in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together the diced chicken, hummus, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Stuff each pita half with about 1/4 cup of the chicken-hummus mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, quick-assemble snack perfect for any occasion.
Chicken and Couscous Cold Salad
Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a healthy lunch option, this cold salad is made with grilled chicken, fluffy couscous, and crunchy vegetables. It’s an easy-to-make and flavorful dish that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked couscous
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Let chicken cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine couscous, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
5. Add diced chicken to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Chicken and Zucchini Noodle Salad
A refreshing and light summer salad that combines grilled chicken with zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Spiralize zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing cold chicken recipes! From salads to sandwiches, wraps, and more, these dishes are perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Discover unique flavor combinations like Cold Asian Sesame Chicken Salad, Spicy Cold Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa, and Chilled Chicken and Mango Curry Salad. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, spicy, or savory, there’s something on this list for everyone.