Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Chicken Salad is the perfect meal for anyone looking for a healthy, low-carb option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh vegetables makes each bite delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile—enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or even as a filling for avocado halves or a keto-friendly sandwich.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cucumber, finely chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).
Add the finely chopped celery, red onion, cucumber, and parsley (if using), and stir until everything is well combined.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a little more vinegar or lemon juice.
Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the chicken salad on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with avocado halves. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 40 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, you can add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the salad.
Avocado: Mix in chunks of avocado for an extra creamy texture and healthy fats boost.
Spicy Chicken Salad: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon bits add a savory crunch and extra flavor to the salad.
Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil can be added to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer, you can serve it warm by gently reheating the chicken before mixing it into the salad.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also a great option for convenience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Keto Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter or tangier version of this salad. Just make sure the Greek yogurt is plain and unsweetened.

Can I add fruit to this chicken salad?

While traditional chicken salads often include fruits like grapes or apples, adding these would increase the carb content. For a keto-friendly version, you might want to skip the fruit or use a small amount of berries for a burst of flavor.

How can I make this chicken salad creamier?

If you prefer a creamier texture, add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt until you achieve your desired consistency. You could also add a small amount of heavy cream for richness.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, this chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any greens or wraps separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Can I use other veggies in this salad?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other low-carb veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded cabbage to add more crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this Keto Chicken Salad is a perfect low-carb dish, with only minimal carbohydrates coming from the vegetables used in the recipe.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing to give the chicken salad a spicy kick.

Can I serve this chicken salad in lettuce wraps?

Yes, lettuce wraps are an excellent low-carb option for serving this chicken salad. Use large lettuce leaves like Romaine or Butter Lettuce to wrap the salad for a refreshing and low-carb meal.

Conclusion

This Keto Chicken Salad is a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. With its creamy dressing, tender chicken, and crunchy veggies, it’s a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re having it on its own, in a wrap, or on a bed of greens, this salad is sure to become a go-to in your meal planning. It’s simple to make, packed with protein, and full of flavor—exactly what you need for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Keto Chicken Salad

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This Keto Chicken Salad is a quick, creamy, and satisfying low-carb meal that combines tender chicken with a rich mayo-based dressing. Packed with fresh vegetables like celery, red onion, and optional cucumber, this salad is full of healthy fats and protein, making it perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet. Serve it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or with avocado halves for a refreshing and versatile meal. Ideal for meal prep, this recipe is a delicious, wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 40min
Yield: 4servings
Category: salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).
Add Vegetables: Add the finely chopped celery, red onion, cucumber, and parsley (if using), and stir until everything is well combined.
Season and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a tangier flavor, add more vinegar or lemon juice as desired.
Chill: Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with avocado halves. Enjoy!