Are you looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional chicken salad? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 creamy whole foods chicken salad recipes that are perfect for lunch or dinner. From classic flavors to international inspirations, these recipes use only the freshest ingredients and creative combinations to bring out the best in chicken.
We’ll start with our first recipe, Classic Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt, a timeless favorite that combines juicy chicken breast with creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy celery, and a hint of lemon. From there, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring recipes like Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad, Cranberry Walnut Whole Foods Chicken Salad, Curry Spiced Whole Foods Chicken Salad, and many more.
So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Classic Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
Classic Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt Recipe
This refreshing chicken salad recipe combines tender chicken breast with creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy veggies, and a hint of tangy lemon juice. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this classic dish is packed with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast, Greek yogurt, celery, red bell pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Mix until well combined and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and chill.
Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime juice for a healthy and flavorful meal or snack. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this whole foods-based dish is also packed with nutrients from the lean chicken breast and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, diced avocado, mixed greens, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (cooking chicken breast), plus 30 minutes for marinating
Cranberry Walnut Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and walnuts with juicy chicken breast for a nutritious and delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Curry Spiced Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This hearty salad combines tender chicken, crunchy whole foods, and a hint of warm curry spices to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (whole foods)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together curry powder and olive oil.
3. Pour the curry mixture over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Pecan Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this deliciously healthy chicken salad recipe, featuring tender chicken, crunchy apples, and savory pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, apple, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time: 15 minutes)
Greek-Inspired Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Feta
This refreshing salad combines juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, creamy feta, and a hint of Mediterranean flair, all without sacrificing nutritional value. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Slice the cooked chicken breast into strips and add to the bowl.
3. Crumble feta cheese over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of pesto, whole foods chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken breast, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Drizzle pesto over the top and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Buffalo Style Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Greek yogurt with the bold flavor of buffalo sauce, creating a deliciously spicy chicken salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, yogurt, buffalo sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in celery and red bell pepper.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve on whole grain bread or crackers, or as a topping for a bed of greens.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep and chilling time)
Asian Sesame Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the wholesome goodness of whole foods, making it a perfect dish for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The combination of crispy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and nutty sesame seeds will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Place the chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the sesame mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, scallions, and chopped chicken.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mediterranean Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Olives
This refreshing salad combines juicy chicken, crunchy olives, and a medley of Mediterranean whole foods for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olives, onion, and feta.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tarragon Dijon Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of tender chicken, crisp greens, and tangy tarragon with a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, and tarragon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bacon Ranch Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh whole foods to create a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bacon, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mango Chipotle Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This Mango Chipotle Whole Foods Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic chicken salad. The sweetness of mango and the smokiness of chipotle peppers create a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
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, crumble feta cheese on top (if using).
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Quinoa and Kale Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, juicy chicken, and a medley of whole foods. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale (curly or lacinato)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on cooking time for chicken and quinoa)
Spicy Sriracha Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of whole foods with the spicy kick of sriracha, making it a perfect blend of flavors and textures. With its bold taste and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and arugula)
– 1/4 cup whole foods mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, whole foods mayonnaise, and sriracha sauce.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Add chopped cucumber and cherry tomatoes; stir gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Herbed Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Fresh Dill
Elevate your chicken salad game with this recipe featuring fresh dill and a blend of aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced chicken, dill, parsley, and chives; stir until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Almond Butter Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing chicken salad recipe combines the creamy richness of almond butter with the wholesome goodness of whole foods, making it a perfect choice for a light and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped apple
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and almond butter until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, and chopped apple to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Drizzle in the honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to go straight from the fridge.
Sunflower Seed Crunch Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This fresh and flavorful salad combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the crunch of sunflower seeds, perfect for a healthy snack or light lunch. With only 10 ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, yogurt, sunflower seeds, parsley, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Divide the mixed greens among four plates. Top each plate with the chicken salad mixture, followed by cherry tomatoes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lemon Pepper Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of lemon, pepper, and whole foods to create a healthy and delicious meal. With only a few ingredients, you can quickly prepare this tasty dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, and quinoa.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavors of whole foods chicken, perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack. With its Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast (whole foods)
– 2 roasted red peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your salad game with these 20 creamy whole foods chicken salad recipes! From classic Greek yogurt-based dishes to adventurous flavors like mango chipotle and buffalo style, there’s something for everyone. Try combining cooked chicken with ingredients like avocado, lime juice, cranberries, and sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh take on the traditional salad. Or go bold with curry spices or sriracha for an extra kick. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, these recipes are sure to delight.