Easy Chicken Salad Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Introduction

Chicken salad is a timeless, versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal occasion—whether as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or an elegant side dish for gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing, a good chicken salad recipe provides satisfying textures and bright flavors. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to create a delicious chicken salad, plus explore variations to keep it fresh and exciting.

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe: Ingredients and Preparation

Print

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked chicken breast meat, diced (rotisserie, baked, or poached)
• 2 cups seedless red grapes, halved (or substitute diced apples or pears)
• 1 cup celery (approximately 2-3 stalks), sliced thin lengthwise
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion (or use sweet Vidalia onion or green onion)
• 1 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped (or substitute walnuts, sliced almonds, or cashews)

Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (real or homemade)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Time and Yield

• Preparation time: 15 minutes (assuming chicken is pre-cooked)
• Total time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling)
• Yield: Serves 4 generously

Instructions

1. Toast pecans: Place pecans on a dry skillet over medium to low heat. Toss frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and coarsely chop once cooled.
2. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken, halved grapes, sliced celery, chopped onion, and toasted pecans.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Mix dressing with salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve chilled as a standalone salad, in sandwich bread, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

---

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	350	–
Total Fat	21 g	27%
Saturated Fat	3.5 g	18%
Unsaturated Fat	~16 g	–
Trans Fat	0 g	–
Cholesterol	90 mg	30%
Sodium	310 mg	13%
Carbohydrates	9 g	3%
Fiber	2 g	7%
Sugars	5 g	–
Protein	30 g	54%

*Percent daily values based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

---

Category, Cuisine, and Method

• Category: Salad, Main course, Lunch, Side dish
• Method: Mixing, no heat required if using pre-cooked chicken
• Cuisine: American with global twists possible

---

Variations to Keep Your Chicken Salad Exciting

Nuts and Seeds

Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, or pepitas for different crunch and flavor profiles.

Fruit Options

Instead of grapes, try diced green apples, pears, dried cranberries, raisins, or fresh pineapple for a sweeter note.

Vegetables

Replace celery with diced bell pepper, cucumber, or green apple for varying textures.

Protein Choices

You can use cooked chicken thighs, rotisserie chicken, shredded canned chicken (in a pinch), or a mix of poultry.

Creamy Dressings

Try replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt or use half mayonnaise and half yogurt for a lighter dressing. A touch of Dijon mustard or curry powder in the dressing can add depth.

Herb Twists

Fresh tarragon, chives, basil, or cilantro can add unique flavor dimensions.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Classic sandwich: Layer chicken salad on whole grain bread with lettuce and tomato.
• Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, serve in romaine or butter leaf lettuce.
• Salad bowl: Serve atop mixed greens, baby spinach, or arugula for a healthy meal.
• Stuffed fruits or veggies: Spoon chicken salad into hollowed avocados, tomatoes, or bell peppers.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

The chicken salad recipe is a delicious and nutritious classic that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and ideal for any season or occasion. With endless ways to customize this salad—whether through nuts, fruits, herbs, or dressings—it can remain a fresh, exciting dish on your table indefinitely. Enjoy it plain, in sandwiches, wraps, or on greens for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

• Perfect Cold Brew Coffee Recipe for Delicious Iced Coffee
• Japanese Mounjaro Recipe: Simple Savory Wellness Drink
• Deviled Eggs Recipe: Classic, Easy & Delicious
• Easy Chicken Salad Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals
• The Best Meatloaf Recipe