10 Must-Try Classic Chicken Salad Recipes

Chicken salad is a classic favorite that offers endless possibilities for flavor and texture. If you’re looking to mix things up in the kitchen, check out these 10 classic chicken salad recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. From traditional styles to creative twists, there’s something here for everyone!

Avocado Chicken Salad with Lime Dressing

This Avocado Chicken Salad with Lime Dressing is a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with tender chicken and a tangy lime dressing, creating a delightful flavor combination. It's simple to make and can be ready in just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy days.

The salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option. The lime dressing adds a zesty kick, while the avocado provides a rich, buttery texture. It's a great way to enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients in a delicious way.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup corn, canned or fresh
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups mixed greens or spinach
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, corn, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the lime dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
5. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and freshness!

Herbed Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Herbed Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing and zesty dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and juicy chicken. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, it combines tender, grilled chicken with crisp greens, sweet tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette that brings everything together. It's simple to make, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

The bright lemon vinaigrette adds a pop of flavor that complements the herbs beautifully. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making this salad a must-try for any chicken salad lover.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, and diced chicken in a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and cilantro, and serve immediately.

Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese

This Buffalo Chicken Salad brings together the classic flavors of buffalo wings in a fresh, healthy way. Imagine tender pieces of chicken coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, mixed with crunchy veggies and tangy blue cheese. It’s a perfect blend of heat and cool, making it a satisfying dish whether you're enjoying a casual lunch or serving at a gathering.

Plus, this recipe is simple to whip up! You can have it ready in no time, making it great for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers. Pair it with some celery sticks for a refreshing crunch, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise until smooth. Add in the diced celery, red onion, and blue cheese, stirring to combine.
3. Add the buffalo chicken to the vegetable mixture. Stir until everything is well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled, and enjoy it on its own or in a wrap!

Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

This Asian Chicken Salad is a refreshing and light dish perfect for any meal. It's packed with vibrant flavors from crispy vegetables, tender chicken, and a delicious sesame dressing. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a delightful addition to your recipe collection.

Easy to whip up, this salad can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. The savory and slightly nutty dressing ties all the ingredients together beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that is both healthy and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, chicken, carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. This will be your dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine everything evenly.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Traditional Chicken Salad with Grapes

This traditional chicken salad with grapes is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the grapes pairs beautifully with tender chicken and crunchy celery, creating a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. It's simple to whip up, making it a great option for lunch or a quick dinner.

Served cold, this salad is both satisfying and light, making it ideal for warm days. It's versatile too! Enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this classic dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved grapes, and diced celery.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Curried Chicken Salad with Apples and Raisins

This Curried Chicken Salad with Apples and Raisins is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The warmth of curry powder meets the sweetness of apples and raisins, creating a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. It's a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a light lunch or a picnic.

The crunchiness of the apples combined with the chewiness of the raisins adds a fun twist to traditional chicken salad. Plus, it's versatile! You can serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or even as a filling for wraps.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup apples, diced (preferably Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup celery, chopped
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, apples, raisins, and celery.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the yogurt, mayonnaise, curry powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in wraps.

Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta

This Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With grilled chicken, juicy tomatoes, black olives, and creamy feta cheese, each bite packs a flavorful punch. The combination of fresh ingredients makes it easy to prepare, giving you a wholesome meal in no time.

The salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it on its own, in a wrap, or alongside some crusty bread. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the tastes of the Mediterranean while keeping things simple and healthy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. Add the Chicken: Top the salad with the sliced cooked chicken breast.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Classic Southern Chicken Salad with Pecans

Classic Southern Chicken Salad with Pecans combines the savory taste of tender chicken with a delightful crunch from toasted pecans. This dish is creamy, mildly tangy, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, brunch, or a simple lunch at home. It’s easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or gatherings with friends.

The pecans add a unique flavor and texture, elevating the traditional chicken salad experience. With a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Add in the toasted pecans and parsley, gently folding them into the mixture.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a delightful treat.

Tropical Chicken Salad with Pineapple

This Tropical Chicken Salad with Pineapple is a refreshing dish that combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and creamy dressing. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures that makes for a delightful meal, whether you're enjoying a picnic or simply looking for a light lunch at home.

Not only is this recipe tasty, but it’s also super easy to whip up! It features simple ingredients and can be made in just a matter of minutes. The tropical twist from the pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced pineapple, red bell pepper, and green onions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy chilled!

Smoky BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn

This Smoky BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn is a delightful blend of flavors that brings a twist to the classic chicken salad. The smoky BBQ flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn and the heartiness of the chicken, creating a satisfying dish that's both tasty and filling. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.

The combination of tender chicken, fresh corn, and zesty BBQ sauce means you’ll enjoy every bite. Toss in some black beans and cilantro for a touch of color and freshness, and you’ve got a meal that’s as good to look at as it is to eat. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits right in at picnics, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Add the BBQ sauce and mix until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, drizzle with olive oil.
3. Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a fresh crunch, or enjoy it on its own!

Tired of Starting Over Every Monday?

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of eating well for a few days, then falling off track... you’re not alone. So many people struggle with staying consistent—not because they lack willpower, but because they don’t have a clear, realistic plan that actually fits their life.

That’s exactly the problem my programs are designed to solve.

With the 21 Custom Low-Calorie Meal Plans Program, you’ll stop guessing what to eat and finally have meals that are easy to prep, satisfying, and aligned with your goals. These plans are built around your preferences and lifestyle, so they’re something you can actually stick with long-term.

And if you’re frustrated with working out and not seeing results, the 8-Week Workout Program to Lose Inches gives you a structured plan that targets fat loss, tones your body, and boosts your energy—all in workouts that fit into a busy schedule. No fluff, just what works.

Why does this work? Because it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s personalized. It’s doable. And most importantly, it’s designed for real life—your life.

So if you’re ready to stop starting over and finally build the habits that lead to lasting change, I’m here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s break the cycle—for good.