Chicken salad is an incredibly versatile dish that can be as humble or as sophisticated as you desire.
Whether you’re hosting a summer luncheon, packing a workday lunch, or simply seeking a quick, nutritious meal, chicken salad is a perfect choice.
The beauty of chicken salad lies in its adaptability—there are endless ways to prepare it, each offering a unique flavor profile and texture combination.
In this blog post, we will explore 25 easy and delicious chicken salad recipes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
From classic renditions to global-inspired twists, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dig in and discover how you can transform basic chicken salad into a culinary delight.
25 Easy Chicken Salad Recipes
1. Classic Chicken Salad
A timeless favorite, the classic chicken salad is simple yet satisfying. It usually features shredded or diced chicken breast mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and onion.
The addition of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice brings everything together. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served atop a bed of fresh greens.
2. Avocado Chicken Salad
For a creamy, healthy twist, try avocado chicken salad. Swap out the mayo for mashed avocado, and mix in some lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
This version is rich in healthy fats and pairs wonderfully with whole-grain crackers or stuffed into a pita pocket.
3. Buffalo Chicken Salad
Spicy and tangy, buffalo chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser. Combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, celery, and a bit of ranch dressing.
This salad is perfect for those who love a bit of heat and can be served in lettuce cups or on a sandwich roll.
4. Curry Chicken Salad
Infuse your chicken salad with exotic flavors by adding curry powder, raisins, and chopped apples. The curry adds a warm spice, while the fruits provide a sweet contrast.
This unique take is perfect for spicing up your usual lunch routine.
5. Caprese Chicken Salad
Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this version includes chicken, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a refreshing and elegant dish.
6. Chinese Chicken Salad
Bring some Asian flair to your chicken salad with ingredients like shredded cabbage, mandarin oranges, and crispy wonton strips.
Toss it with a sesame-ginger dressing for a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors.
7. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Perfect for the fall season, cranberry pecan chicken salad combines dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and diced celery with a creamy dressing.
The sweet and nutty flavors make it a hit for any holiday gathering.
8. Greek Chicken Salad
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with Greek chicken salad. Mix chicken with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
A dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano ties it all together.
9. Santa Fe Chicken Salad
Full of southwestern flavors, Santa Fe chicken salad includes black beans, corn, red bell peppers, and avocado. Top with a cilantro-lime dressing and tortilla strips for a zesty and hearty meal.
10. Waldorf Chicken Salad
A classic American dish, Waldorf chicken salad features apples, grapes, walnuts, and celery mixed with a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and savory.
11. Broccoli Chicken Salad
For a nutritious twist, add broccoli florets to your chicken salad. Combine with red onions, sunflower seeds, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.
12. Cobb Salad
Turn your favorite salad into a hearty chicken dish.
Cobb chicken salad includes bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, and blue cheese. A simple vinaigrette brings it all together for a protein-packed meal.
13. Cranberry Apple Chicken Salad
Sweet and tart, cranberry apple chicken salad combines diced apples, dried cranberries, and chopped nuts with a light dressing. It’s a refreshing take that’s perfect for autumn.
14. Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Filled with vibrant flavors, Mediterranean chicken salad includes artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta.
Toss it with a lemon-oregano dressing for a taste of the Mediterranean coast.
15. Caesar Chicken Salad
Upgrade your chicken salad by incorporating Caesar dressing, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. This classic combination is both hearty and satisfying.
16. Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, serve your chicken salad in crisp lettuce leaves. Fill with your favorite chicken salad mix, and top with shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers for extra crunch.
17. Lemon Poppy Seed Chicken Salad
Brighten your chicken salad with a lemon poppy seed dressing. Add in some sliced almonds and grapes for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
18. Balsamic Chicken Salad
Drizzle your chicken salad with balsamic vinaigrette and toss with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls. It’s a tasty and elegant option that’s perfect for a light lunch.
19. Ranch Chicken Salad
For those who love ranch dressing, this chicken salad is a must-try.
Combine chicken with chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions, then mix in a generous amount of ranch dressing.
20. Pesto Chicken Salad
Add a burst of flavor to your chicken salad with pesto sauce. Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts for a delicious and aromatic dish.
21. BBQ Chicken Salad
Bring the taste of summer to your table with BBQ chicken salad.
Combine shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, corn, black beans, and red onions. Top with a creamy coleslaw for added crunch.
22. Tarragon Chicken Salad
Tarragon adds a unique and sophisticated flavor to this chicken salad. Mix with grapes, almonds, and a light mayonnaise dressing for a delightful combination.
23. Thai Chicken Salad
Enjoy a Thai twist with ingredients like shredded carrots, bell peppers, cilantro, and peanuts. Toss with a peanut-lime dressing for a flavorful and exotic dish.
24. Tahini Chicken Salad
Creamy tahini dressing elevates this chicken salad to new heights. Combine with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a refreshing meal.
25. Jerk Chicken Salad
Spice up your chicken salad with jerk seasoning, mango chunks, and red bell peppers. A lime-cilantro dressing brings all the flavors together for a tropical treat.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these 25 easy chicken salad recipes offer something for everyone.
Each one brings a unique flavor profile that can transform your usual meal routine into an exciting culinary adventure.
Try them all and discover your favorite! And if you’re looking for more personalized culinary inspiration, consider subscribing to our newsletter for exclusive recipes and tips.
Happy cooking!
