Looking for a bold, flavorful twist on a classic salad? This Cajun Chicken Salad packs juicy, spiced chicken, creamy garlic dressing, and fresh avocado—all in one bowl. It’s easy to make, full of texture, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving guests, this salad delivers. Let’s dive in and see how to bring it all together.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Salad Recipe

If you enjoy bold flavors and hearty meals that still feel fresh, this Cajun Chicken Salad is for you. Here’s why it stands out:

Big Flavor, Simple Prep

Cajun seasoning adds smoky heat to the chicken without needing a long list of ingredients. It’s quick to cook, making this salad a weeknight win.

Balanced and Satisfying

The protein-rich chicken pairs perfectly with creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a tangy garlic dressing. It’s filling without being heavy.

Great for Meal Prep

The components can be made ahead and assembled when ready to eat. Ideal for lunches or dinners on busy days.

Customizable to Your Taste

You can adjust the spice level, swap the protein, or choose your favorite greens and toppings. It works for low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein diets.

Looks as Good as It Tastes

With colorful veggies, golden grilled chicken, and a creamy drizzle, it’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Essential Ingredients & Possible Substitutions

This Cajun Chicken Salad brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create bold flavors with minimal effort. Here’s what you’ll need, along with easy swaps if you’re missing something or want to customize.

For the Cajun Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer more juiciness.
Substitute: Tofu, shrimp, or grilled turkey slices for different protein options.
Cajun seasoning: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper.
Tip: Adjust the heat by using less cayenne or try a store-bought low-sodium Cajun mix.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking.
Substitute: Avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil.

For the Salad Base:

Mixed greens: A blend of romaine, spinach, arugula, or spring mix works well.
Substitute: Kale (massaged), butter lettuce, or shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
Cherry tomatoes: Adds juiciness and sweetness.
Substitute: Diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Red onion: For sharpness and bite.
Substitute: Green onions or pickled onions for a milder taste.
Cucumber: Adds cool, crisp texture.
Optional: Zucchini ribbons or bell peppers for variety.
Avocado: Provides creamy richness and healthy fats.
Substitute: Guacamole dollops or omit if avoiding fat (though avocado is highly recommended).

For the Dressing:

Greek yogurt or mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing.
Substitute: Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt for lactose intolerance.
Garlic (fresh or powdered): Adds depth and sharpness.
Tip: Roast the garlic beforehand for a milder flavor.
Lemon juice or vinegar: Brings acidity to balance the richness.
Substitute: Apple cider vinegar or lime juice.
Olive oil: Smooths out the dressing and helps it coat the salad.
Substitute: Any mild-tasting oil.

Optional Add-Ons:

Croutons or tortilla strips: For added crunch.
Shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta for an extra creamy bite.
Hard-boiled eggs or bacon bits: For even more protein and richness.

Choosing and Preparing Cajun Chicken

The star of this salad is the Cajun chicken—juicy, smoky, and full of bold flavor. Getting it right makes all the difference. Here’s how to choose, season, and cook it to perfection.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: A lean option that cooks quickly and slices well for salads.
Chicken Thighs: Slightly fattier, but incredibly juicy and flavorful. Ideal if you want a richer bite.

Both work well—go with what you prefer or have on hand.

How to Season

You can use a store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own blend. A good Cajun rub includes:

Paprika (smoked or sweet)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Dried oregano
Dried thyme
Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Black pepper
Salt

Quick Tip: Mix the seasoning with a bit of olive oil to create a paste. This helps the flavors stick to the chicken and creates a beautiful crust when seared.

Marinating (Optional but Recommended)

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun spice mix with olive oil for 30 minutes to 2 hours. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize the meat.

Cooking Methods

Choose the method that fits your kitchen and preference:

Grilling (Best for smoky flavor)

Preheat your grill to medium-high. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Pan-Searing (Quick and easy)

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Sear chicken for about 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

Baking (Hands-off method)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.

Air Frying (Crispy and quick)

Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Slicing the Chicken

Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices. Then slice it thinly or cube it before placing it on the salad.

Making the Creamy Garlic Dressing

A good salad deserves a great dressing—and this creamy garlic version is the perfect match for spicy Cajun chicken. It’s cool, tangy, and garlicky with just the right touch of richness to balance out the heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Greek yogurt or mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base. Yogurt adds tang, while mayo offers a smoother, richer flavor.
Tip: Use half-and-half for a balanced taste.
Fresh garlic (1–2 cloves): Minced finely or crushed into a paste for a strong garlic kick.
Optional: Roast the garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Lemon juice or vinegar (1–2 tablespoons): Adds brightness and acidity.
Substitute: White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
Olive oil (1–2 tablespoons): Helps emulsify and thin out the dressing.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.

Optional add-ins:

A pinch of sugar or honey to mellow the garlic
A dash of Dijon mustard for tang and depth
Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for freshness

How to Make It

Mix the base: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or mayo), lemon juice, and olive oil.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced or crushed garlic. Let it sit for a few minutes to infuse.
Season: Add salt, pepper, and any optional ingredients.
Adjust consistency: Add a splash of water or more lemon juice if you want a thinner drizzle.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor gets stronger as it sits, especially the garlic—so taste before serving and adjust if needed.

Building the Perfect Avocado Salad Base

The base of your Cajun Chicken Salad is what gives it a refreshing, satisfying crunch. The creamy avocado adds richness and balances the heat from the Cajun chicken, while fresh veggies bring in texture and brightness. Here’s how to build it to perfection.

Essential Salad Greens

Mixed greens: A combination of greens like romaine, spinach, arugula, and spring mix creates a variety of textures and flavors.
Substitute: Kale (massaged to soften it), butter lettuce, or even shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
Spinach: A great choice for a more mild, iron-rich base.
Tip: For a smoother texture, use young baby spinach leaves.

Adding Vegetables for Freshness

Cucumbers: Slice them thin or cut into half-moons for cool, crisp bites that complement the warmth of the Cajun chicken.
Substitute: Zucchini ribbons, bell peppers, or celery for extra crunch.
Cherry tomatoes: These bring a juicy, sweet contrast to the spiced chicken.
Substitute: Diced regular tomatoes or roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
Red onion: Adds a zesty bite. Slice thinly to keep it mild and not overpowering.
Optional: Pickled onions for a tangy twist or green onions for a milder flavor.

Incorporating the Avocado

Ripe avocados: Cut into cubes or slices to provide a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the Cajun chicken.
Tip: For easier slicing, remove the pit, cut the avocado into wedges, then scoop out with a spoon.

Optional mix-ins:

Corn: Adds sweetness and color.
Black beans: For extra fiber and protein.
Shredded carrots: To add a bit of sweetness and crunch.
Radishes: If you want some peppery kick alongside your greens.

Assembling the Salad

Start with the greens: In a large bowl, layer your choice of mixed greens or spinach.
Add the veggies: Toss in cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions for freshness and color.
Place the avocado: Gently fold in the avocado cubes or slices to avoid mashing.
Top with Cajun chicken: Once the chicken is sliced, arrange it on top of the salad to highlight its flavor.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or chives for added freshness.
Cheese: Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can add a creamy, salty contrast to the salad.
Crunchy toppings: Toss in some croutons, tortilla strips, or pumpkin seeds for a bit of crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to assemble the Cajun Chicken Salad. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful, satisfying meal in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Chicken

Season the chicken:

Rub the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) with olive oil and coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning.

Cook the chicken:

Choose your preferred cooking method (grilling, pan-searing, baking, or air frying) and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Grill: 5–7 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
Pan-sear: 6–8 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
Bake: 20–25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Air fry: 16–18 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway through.

Rest the chicken

Let the cooked chicken rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Slice the chicken

Slice or cube the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of sugar or honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, add your mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine).
Add the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Gently fold in the diced avocado, being careful not to mash it.
Optional: Add extra toppings like corn, black beans, shredded carrots, or radishes.

Step 4: Add the Cajun Chicken

Arrange the sliced Cajun chicken on top of the salad. You can either place it in the center or scatter it across the salad for an even distribution.

Step 5: Drizzle the Dressing

Spoon or drizzle the creamy garlic dressing over the salad, making sure to coat everything evenly. You can add more dressing if desired, but be mindful not to overdress the salad.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad to mix the ingredients and ensure the dressing is well distributed. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and sprinkle on any additional toppings like croutons, shredded cheese, or pumpkin seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

While this Cajun Chicken Salad is simple to make, having the right tools can make the process smoother and quicker. Here’s a list of essential equipment to help you prepare the salad perfectly.

Grill, Skillet, or Air Fryer (For the Chicken)

Grill: A grill is the best choice if you want to infuse smoky flavor into the Cajun chicken. Look for a grill with a temperature gauge to control the heat.
Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a skillet (cast iron works great) or an air fryer for convenience and crispy results.
Skillet (Cast Iron or Nonstick): For pan-searing the chicken. A good, heavy skillet ensures even heat distribution and helps create a nice sear on the chicken.
Tip: Use a skillet with high sides to prevent any splattering.
Air Fryer: For an easier, less-messy option. Air fryers can cook chicken quickly and evenly, giving you a crispy exterior with minimal oil.

Sharp Knife and Cutting Board

Sharp Knife: You’ll need a sharp knife to slice the chicken and chop the vegetables, avocado, and other ingredients. A chef’s knife or santoku works best for precision.
Tip: Use a separate knife for slicing the chicken and chopping veggies to avoid cross-contamination.
Cutting Board: A sturdy, large cutting board will provide enough space for chopping and slicing. Consider using a separate board for meat to keep your salad ingredients safe.

Salad Bowl

A large salad bowl is essential for tossing all the ingredients together. Choose one with enough space to mix the salad without spilling.

Tip: A glass or wooden salad bowl looks great for serving, while a larger mixing bowl is perfect for tossing everything before plating.

Whisk or Spoon (For Dressing)

Whisk: To mix the creamy garlic dressing smoothly. A whisk will help combine the yogurt or mayo with the lemon juice, oil, and garlic without clumping.
Alternative: If you don’t have a whisk, a fork or spoon works just fine.

Measuring Spoons and Cups

To ensure the right amount of seasoning and ingredients, use measuring spoons and measuring cups. This helps keep the dressing and Cajun seasoning balanced.

Tip: For the best flavor, measure your spices, but feel free to adjust the amounts to your personal preference.

Tongs or Salad Servers

Tongs: Use tongs to gently toss the salad after it’s dressed, making sure the ingredients mix evenly without crushing the avocado.
Salad Servers: Long serving spoons or salad tongs are helpful for serving portions.

Meat Thermometer

If you’re unsure about the doneness of the chicken, a meat thermometer is an essential tool. It ensures the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), guaranteeing it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Small Bowl or Jar (For Dressing Storage)

If you have leftover dressing, store it in a small jar or airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to five days. A jar also makes it easy to shake or stir the dressing before each use.

Recipe Variations and Customization Tips

While this Cajun Chicken Salad is a fantastic recipe on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are some variations and customization tips to help you tailor the salad to suit your taste.

Swap the Protein

Grilled Shrimp: For a lighter, seafood option, swap the Cajun chicken for grilled shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs Cajun spices beautifully.
Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian or vegan version, marinate and grill or pan-sear tofu or tempeh. Use a similar Cajun seasoning blend for flavor.
Grilled Turkey or Pork: If you prefer a different protein, turkey breast or grilled pork tenderloin can also be great alternatives to chicken. Just adjust the seasoning to complement the meat.
Steak: For a more substantial salad, grill a steak (such as flank or sirloin) with Cajun spices, then slice it thinly over your salad for an indulgent twist.

Adjust the Spice Level

Mild Cajun: If you like your salad less spicy, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. You can also add a bit of brown sugar to the Cajun rub to balance the heat.
Hotter Cajun: For those who like an extra kick, add more cayenne pepper, or try a hotter version of Cajun seasoning with more chili powder or paprika.
Add a Hot Sauce Kick: Drizzle a few drops of your favorite hot sauce over the salad or in the dressing for an additional burst of heat.

Make It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

Low-Carb Greens: Instead of mixed greens, opt for leafy greens like spinach, kale, or arugula, which are lower in carbs and still full of flavor.
No Avocado: If you’re avoiding carbs from avocados (though they’re full of healthy fats), you can swap them for a creamy cucumber or a small amount of cheese (like goat cheese or feta) for texture.
Skip the Croutons: For a truly low-carb version, avoid adding croutons or tortilla strips. Instead, you can sprinkle some roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Add Extra Veggies

Roasted Veggies: Roasting veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes and adding them to the salad will add depth of flavor and more heartiness.
Grilled Corn or Beans: You can add grilled corn kernels or black beans for more texture and protein. Both pair wonderfully with Cajun seasoning.
Roasted Beets or Carrots: Roasting root vegetables like beets or carrots and adding them to the salad will bring in a natural sweetness and a pop of color.

Dairy-Free or Vegan Options

Dairy-Free Dressing: Swap the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a dairy-free option like cashew cream or avocado-based dressing to keep it vegan.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re vegan or dairy-free, consider adding a dairy-free cheese option like vegan feta or cashew cheese for that creamy bite.
Replace the Chicken with Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas or spiced lentils can serve as a great plant-based protein option, and they absorb the Cajun flavors well.

Change Up the Greens and Add-ins

Leafy Greens Variety: Switch up your greens for different textures or flavors. Try baby kale for a more peppery taste, or mix in some arugula for a bit of spice.
Fruits for Sweetness: Add fruit like sliced strawberries, orange segments, or apple slices for a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken and creamy dressing.
Tip: Pomegranate seeds can add a burst of color and sweetness, especially if you want a more seasonal or festive touch.

Make It a Wrap or Sandwich

Wrap Version: Instead of serving the salad in a bowl, try wrapping the Cajun chicken, avocado, veggies, and dressing in a large whole-wheat tortilla or a low-carb wrap for an easy-to-eat meal on the go.
Cajun Chicken Sandwich: Place the Cajun chicken and your favorite salad ingredients between two slices of toasted bread for a flavorful sandwich.

Add a Crunchy Topping

Tortilla Chips: If you love a crunch, toss some crushed tortilla chips or homemade baked tortilla strips over the top just before serving.
Nuts & Seeds: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) can give your salad a satisfying crunch while adding healthy fats and protein.

Notes and Tips

To ensure your Cajun Chicken Salad is a success every time, here are some helpful tips and notes. These suggestions will help you perfect the recipe, adapt it to your needs, and avoid common mistakes.

Chicken Tips

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking, be sure not to overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. A meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Rest the Chicken: Always allow the chicken to rest for at least 5–10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
Marinating: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking. It makes the chicken even more flavorful and juicy.

Avocado Tips

Ripe Avocados: For the best texture, make sure your avocados are ripe but not overripe. A ripe avocado will give slightly when pressed but won’t feel mushy. If the avocado is too hard, leave it at room temperature for a couple of days until it softens.
Prevent Browning: If you have leftover avocado or are prepping the salad in advance, squeeze a little lemon or lime juice on the avocado to prevent browning.
Cutting the Avocado: To slice the avocado neatly, cut it in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and score the flesh with a knife before scooping it out with a spoon.

Salad Dressing Tips

Flavor Balance: Taste your dressing before serving. If it needs more zing, add a little extra lemon juice or vinegar. If it’s too tangy, a small drizzle of honey can mellow it out. Adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or garlic powder to fine-tune the flavor.
Making Ahead: The creamy garlic dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. This can save time on the day you make the salad.
Consistency Adjustments: If your dressing becomes too thick in the fridge, simply stir in a little more water or lemon juice to loosen it up.

Salad Assembly Tips

Tossing the Salad: When tossing the salad, do so gently to avoid mashing the avocado or bruising the greens. If you’re serving a large crowd, you may want to toss the salad just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
Layering: If you’re preparing the salad in advance, layer the ingredients in a bowl, with the wet ingredients (like avocado and chicken) on top of the greens. Add the dressing right before serving to prevent wilting.
Leftovers: If you have leftover salad, store the components separately. Keep the dressing in a sealed container in the fridge, and store the salad base (greens, avocado, and vegetables) separately to avoid sogginess.

Make It a Meal Prep Option

Meal Prep Containers: This salad can be prepped ahead for a week’s worth of lunches or dinners. Divide the salad base into individual containers and top with the sliced Cajun chicken and avocado just before eating.
Storage Tips: For meal prep, store the dressing in a small container that you can add to the salad when ready to serve. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents the greens from wilting.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten-Free: This Cajun Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to avoid adding croutons or any gluten-containing toppings.
Dairy-Free / Vegan: To make the salad dairy-free or vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayo with a vegan-friendly dressing like cashew cream or avocado-based dressing. For the chicken, swap it for grilled tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas.
Low-Carb / Keto: To make this salad even more keto-friendly, skip any high-carb additions like croutons, and opt for avocado and cheese (if desired) for added richness. You can also add extra leafy greens to bulk up the salad without increasing the carb content.

Enhancing the Cajun Flavor

Extra Cajun Spice: If you love a bold flavor, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning to the chicken or even sprinkle a little over the salad just before serving for a stronger kick.
Cajun Dressing Variation: For an extra twist, try adding a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the creamy garlic dressing to reinforce the flavor of the chicken.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes: This salad works great as a standalone meal, but it can also be paired with simple sides like roasted sweet potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a side of garlic bread.
Beverages: A refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of this Cajun Chicken Salad.

Nutrition Information

If you’re looking to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without compromising on nutrition, this Cajun Chicken Salad is a great option. It’s packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables, making it both a filling and nutritious meal. Below is the approximate nutrition breakdown for one serving of the salad, based on the typical ingredients used in this recipe.

Calories

Approx. 400-500 calories per serving

The total calorie count will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use (such as the amount of dressing, avocado, or chicken), but this range provides a good estimate for a hearty, well-rounded meal.

Macronutrients

Protein: 30-35 grams

The grilled Cajun chicken is the primary source of protein, making this salad a great choice for muscle repair and satiety. The amount of protein can be adjusted by varying the amount of chicken or substituting with a higher-protein option like grilled shrimp or tofu.

Fat: 25-30 grams

Healthy fats come from the avocado, olive oil in the dressing, and any additional toppings like cheese or seeds. Avocados are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while olive oil adds omega-3 fatty acids.

Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams

The carbohydrate content is primarily from the vegetables (avocado, cucumbers, tomatoes, etc.). The greens and veggies are low in carbs, making this salad a great choice for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. The carbs mainly come from fiber-rich vegetables, ensuring good digestive health.

Fiber: 7-10 grams

Thanks to the veggies and avocado, this salad is rich in dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for gut health, helping to regulate digestion and maintain a feeling of fullness longer.

Micronutrients

Vitamins:

Vitamin A: From the leafy greens (spinach, arugula) and vegetables like tomatoes and carrots, which provide a good amount of beta-carotene for eye health and immune function.
Vitamin C: Tomatoes, bell peppers, and avocado contribute a healthy dose of Vitamin C, which supports skin health, immune function, and helps your body absorb iron.
Vitamin K: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in Vitamin K, which plays a key role in bone health and blood clotting.

Minerals:

Potassium: Avocados are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports healthy muscle function.
Magnesium: Avocados, spinach, and other leafy greens provide magnesium, important for muscle function, relaxation, and supporting metabolic processes.
Calcium: The salad offers some calcium through the greens and any optional cheese or seeds you add.

Sodium

Approx. 600-800 milligrams

The sodium content can vary based on how much Cajun seasoning and salt you use. If you’re concerned about sodium intake, use a low-sodium Cajun seasoning or adjust the amount of salt in the dressing. For a lower sodium version, consider making your own seasoning mix at home.

Customization for Dietary Needs

Low-Carb / Keto: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this salad is an excellent choice as it is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you skip any high-carb additions like croutons or opt for extra leafy greens.
Gluten-Free: This Cajun Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it an ideal meal for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease. Just be mindful of any packaged items (like seasoning or croutons) that may contain gluten.
Dairy-Free / Vegan: To make this salad dairy-free, skip the cheese and replace the creamy garlic dressing with a plant-based alternative, such as an avocado-based dressing or a vegan mayo dressing.
High-Protein: For those looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding extra chicken, grilled shrimp, or a scoop of quinoa. Adding a handful of nuts like almonds or seeds also increases the protein content.

Cajun Chicken Salad Recipe

Spice up your meals with this easy and flavorful Cajun chicken salad recipe—packed with bold seasonings, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies. Perfect for lunch or dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 29

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts
Salt
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons mustard
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
2 large hard-boiled eggs chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onion
Tabasco or other hot sauce to taste

Method

Set a 2-quart pot of well salted water over high heat. As the water heats to a boil, cut the chicken breasts into large (2 1/2-inch) chunks. When the water boils, add the chicken. Return to a simmer, then turn off the heat, and cover the pot. Let sit for 15 minutes (time it) or more while you prepare everything else.
In a large bowl, mix the mayo, mustard, vinegar, paprika, Cajun seasoning and horseradish together. Mix in the eggs, celery, green pepper, green onion.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the poaching water* and dice it. Mix it in with the remaining ingredients. Add salt and hot sauce to taste. Chill before serving.
Serve over butter lettuce or between two pieces of bread for a sandwich.