Enjoy this lighter, homemade chicken salad that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Ideal for refreshing sandwiches or a cold lunch—great for meal prep!

Easy Chicken Salad Recipe

This easy chicken salad comes together with just a few basic ingredients, making it ideal for quick meals and meal prep. Inspired by a family recipe, I love serving it on toasted bread, crisp lettuce wraps, or even stuffed in a fresh avocado for a satisfying low-carb option. Packed with protein and free from gluten and dairy, it’s a healthy choice for busy days, picnics, or gatherings.

Simple chicken salad recipe

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my Lemon-Dill Chicken Salad or my Spicy Curry Chicken Salad for a flavorful twist. And for another protein-packed classic, try my Creamy Avocado Egg Salad!

Perfect for making ahead, this chicken salad stays fresh in the fridge all week—ready whenever hunger strikes.

What are the main ingredients for chicken salad?

Classic Chicken Salad Ingredients

What You’ll Need for Simple Homemade Chicken Salad

Here are the key ingredients for this fresh and flavorful chicken salad. Check the recipe card for precise amounts:

Protein: About 12 oz of cooked chicken (shredded or diced)—use leftover roasted chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Creamy Base: Light mayonnaise keeps it healthier, but regular mayo works too.
Crunch: Finely chopped celery adds a refreshing crispness.
Zesty Kick: Diced red onion gives a mild bite—green onions or shallots also work well.
Moisture Boost: A splash of chicken broth keeps it juicy if needed.
Flavor Enhancer: A touch of Dijon mustard for a subtle tang.
Seasoning: A blend of seasoned salt and black pepper for the perfect balance.

How to Make Chicken Salad

This simple chicken salad comes together in minutes and is perfect for repurposing leftover roasted chicken. No leftovers? No problem! You can quickly poach chicken breasts in seasoned broth or try my foolproof baked chicken method for tender, juicy meat every time.

How to cook chicken for chicken salad?

Here’s how to assemble it:

Shred or finely dice your cooked chicken breast
Add crisp chopped celery and finely minced onion for texture
Mix with creamy mayonnaise and a spoonful of Dijon for zing
If the mixture seems dry, revive it with a splash of broth
Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper
Chicken Salad Recipe

How to Poach Chicken Breast:

Perfect Poached Chicken for Your Salad

For tender, flavorful chicken every time, try this easy poaching method:

Prepare the Poaching Liquid:
- Place chicken breasts in a pot and cover with broth (add water if needed to fully submerge)
- Season with salt and pepper
- Add aromatic celery leaves and stalks (or customize with garlic, herbs, or onion)
Gentle Cooking Process:
- Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer
- Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat
- Cover tightly and let stand for 15-20 minutes (until internal temp reaches 160°F)
Finish and Prep:
- The residual heat will finish cooking the chicken perfectly
- Allow to cool before dicing or shredding for your salad

This foolproof technique keeps the chicken incredibly moist and absorbs subtle flavors from the poaching liquid. The result? Perfectly tender chicken every time!

Tip: Save the flavorful poaching liquid to use in soups or for cooking grains!

Serving Suggestions

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Your Chicken Salad

This versatile chicken salad shines in countless dishes. Here are some fresh serving ideas:

For Hearty Meals:

Stuff into soft pita pockets or whole grain wraps
Pile high on toasted everything bagels or seeded rolls
Layer between slices of crusty artisan bread or homemade oat bread

For Light & Fresh Options:

Scoop onto crisp butter lettuce or romaine leaves
Wrap in vibrant collard greens for an extra nutrient boost
Serve atop a garden salad with avocado slices and heirloom tomatoes

Creative Twists:

Stuff into halved bell peppers or ripe avocados
Spoon onto cucumber rounds for elegant appetizers
Mix with pasta or quinoa for a protein-packed grain bowl

The possibilities are endless – let your cravings guide you! Each serving style brings its own unique texture and flavor to this adaptable salad.

Storage

Homemade salad lasts about 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations

Creative Ways to Customize Your Chicken Salad

Make this recipe your own with these delicious variations:

Lighter Options:
• Swap mayo entirely with Greek yogurt, or try a 50/50 blend for creaminess with fewer calories
• For extra tang, use avocado oil mayo or mix in a spoonful of hummus

Crunch & Sweetness Boosters:
• Toss in crisp diced apples, juicy grapes, or ripe pears
• Add texture with toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds
• Mix in dried cranberries, golden raisins, or chopped dates for natural sweetness

Flavor Twists:
• Stir in chopped dill pickles or capers for a briny kick
• Fresh herbs like tarragon, basil, or chives brighten every bite
• For an aromatic version, add curry powder with fresh cilantro and lime juice

Heartier Transformations:
• Fold into cooked pasta with extra dressing for a chicken pasta salad
• Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or smoked paprika
• Boost umami with a dash of garlic powder and onion powder

What do I do if my chicken salad is too dry?

If your chicken salad needs more moisture without becoming heavy, try these easy fixes:

Light & Dairy-Free Option
• Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of chicken broth – it adds juiciness while keeping the flavors clean
• Works especially well when using leftover roasted chicken

Protein-Boosting Alternative
• Blend in 1-2 tablespoons Greek yogurt with your mayo
• Creates a creamier texture while adding extra protein

Quick Moisture Tricks
• A drizzle of olive oil or avocado oil adds richness
• A squeeze of lemon or lime juice brightens flavors while adding moisture
• For sweet variations, try a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar

Pro Tip: Always add liquids gradually and taste as you go – the perfect consistency should hold together but spread easily!

Chicken Salad FAQs: