Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe – Light, Fresh & Protein-Packed

Did you know that the average American eats over 102 pounds of chicken in 2024? That’s more than beef or pork! With chicken being such a staple, it’s no wonder chicken salad remains one of the most popular go-to meals. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with protein, making it a perfect option for meal prep, sandwiches, or a refreshing lunch.

This healthy chicken salad recipe takes a fresh, wholesome approach with crisp veggies, crunchy almonds, and a tangy dressing made with a touch of honey and mustard. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requires no cooking, and can be customized to your liking!

How to Make Chicken Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes 

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• • • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
    • ½ cup chopped almonds
    • 2 celery stalks, chopped
    • ½ red bell pepper, chopped 
    • ¼ cup chopped onion
    • 1 apple, cored and chopped 
    • ⅓ head iceberg lettuce, sliced and chopped

Dressing

• • • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon ground oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped almonds, celery, red bell pepper, onion, apple, and lettuce. Toss everything together so it’s well distributed.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything until evenly coated.

4. Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to enhance the flavors. Serve on lettuce wraps, andsandwiches, or enjoy it as is!

Chicken Salad Tips and Twists

• Swap Greek yogurt for mayo to cut down on calories and add extra protein.
• Use a dairy-free mayo alternative.
• Try walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
• Toss in some hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas.
• Instead of apples, use grapes or cranberries for a different sweetness.
• Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Health Benefits of This Chicken Salad

1. High in Protein

With 3 cups of shredded chicken, this salad is packed with lean protein that helps with muscle repair, keeps you full longer, and supports metabolism.

2. Full of Healthy Fats

Almonds and mayonnaise provide heart-healthy fats, which help maintain brain function and overall well-being.

3. Rich in Fiber

Ingredients like celery, apples, and lettuce provide gut-friendly fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you satisfied.

4. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly

This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for keto or low-carb diets, especially when served without bread.

5. Packed with Vitamins & Antioxidants

Bell peppers, apples, and celery provide a powerful mix of vitamins A, C, and K, which support immunity and skin health.

Make Your Chicken Salad Now!

This healthy chicken salad recipe is easy, fresh, and packed with flavor. Make it your own with your favorite add-ins, serve it in different ways, and enjoy a meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Kitchen Tools You Need

• Salad Spinner – Keeps your lettuce crisp and fresh.
• Knife – Quickly chops onions, celery, and bell peppers.
• Mixing Bowls – Essential for tossing the salad.
• Silicone Spatula – Perfect for mixing the dressing.

Check out these tools at Zulay Kitchen to make meal prep even easier!

Now It’s Your Turn!

Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments what you think! Share your creation on social media and tag @zulay_kitchen with #kitchenhappiness for a chance to be featured.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Salad

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes! This chicken salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they meld together, making it a great make-ahead option. Just store it in an airtight container and stir before serving.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook chicken breasts by boiling, baking, or using a slow cooker. Just ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F) and let it cool before shredding.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, use honey mustard instead of regular mustard, and add more fresh veggies to increase fiber and nutrients.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just use dairy-free mayonnaise or opt for avocado-based mayo for a creamy, plant-based alternative.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad because the mayo-based dressing may separate and become watery when thawed. Instead, freeze the cooked, shredded chicken separately and assemble the salad fresh.

What are the best ways to serve chicken salad?

Try serving it in lettuce wraps, as a sandwich, inside a croissant, or on whole-grain crackers for a snack! It’s also delicious on top of a salad or stuffed into an avocado.