After many trials and experiments, here’s the ultimate chicken salad recipe. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also free from gluten and mayonnaise, and is packed with nutrients. It has quickly become my go-to chicken salad recipe and is ideal for a busy day!
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe with a Healthy Twist
This simple chicken salad recipe is quick to prepare, especially if you have leftover chicken. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack. Pack it in a container for a quick meal when you’re on the move. It’s also a hit at gatherings.
The best method I’ve found for making it portable is layering some at the bottom of a mason jar, adding lettuce or spinach on top, and sealing it tightly. It will stay fresh in the fridge for several days, making it great for meal prep.
Chicken Salad Ingredients
This chicken salad uses yogurt rich in probiotics instead of mayo for a distinctive flavor. Greek yogurt, which has more protein, works well, but plain yogurt is also fine. If you prefer to keep it classic with mayo, try this homemade version with healthy fats. For a version without eggs, avocado "mayo" is a great alternative.
Naturally, cooked chicken is a must-have for chicken salad. I often prepare boneless chicken breasts in advance for various recipes during the week. Leftover rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken can also speed up the preparation and enhance flavor. Whether you use diced or shredded chicken, it works well in this recipe.
While chicken salad can be made simply, adding a few flavorful ingredients elevates it. Through experimentation, I found a combination that my whole family enjoys! Walnuts and celery contribute a nice crunch, and apple, red grapes, and honey add a hint of sweetness. Basil, garlic, and black pepper create a balance of flavors.
Add-ins and Substitutions
The beauty of chicken salad is its versatility—you can use what you have on hand. Swap walnuts for chopped pecans if you prefer. If grapes aren’t available, cranberries are a good substitute. Here are a few more suggestions:
- Fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, tarragon, or dill
- Finely chopped red onion
- Sour cream (or mayo) mixed with the yogurt
- Diced avocado
What to Serve With Chicken Salad
While chicken salad sandwiches, especially on a croissant, are a staple at most restaurants, we don’t frequently eat sandwiches. My favorite way to enjoy this salad is over a bed of lettuce. For a low-carb option, use romaine or butter lettuce to make wraps.
It’s also delicious as a snack atop sliced cucumber or you can simply eat it by itself!
Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe
Creamy chicken salad with probiotics, tender chicken, and crunchy nuts and fruit. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Instructions:
- Place chicken, walnuts, celery, diced apple, and grapes in a large bowl.
- Add yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and spices.
- Mix all ingredients until everything is evenly coated.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving: 1 serving
- Calories: 308
- Calories from Fat: 90
- % Daily Value*
- Fat: 10g (15%)
- Saturated Fat: 2g (13%)
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 97mg (32%)
- Sodium: 586mg (25%)
- Potassium: 784mg (22%)
- Carbohydrates: 18g (6%)
- Fiber: 2g (8%)
- Sugar: 14g (16%)
- Protein: 36g (72%)
- Vitamin A: 173IU (3%)
- Vitamin C: 7mg (8%)
- Calcium: 54mg (5%)
- Iron: 1mg (6%)
- Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
This recipe makes an excellent mason jar salad for easy lunches or meals on the go. Simply place the chicken salad in the bottom of a mason jar and top with lettuce or spinach before sealing with a lid.
Also, try these chicken salad recipe variations…
What’s your favorite way to enjoy chicken salad? Leave a comment and let us know!
Leave a Reply