Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen whipping up a meal? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing our top 18 quick and easy chicken salad recipes that can be made with just 5 ingredients or less. From classic combinations to bold flavors, these simple yet satisfying dishes are perfect for a busy day when cooking seems like too much of an ordeal.
Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie or just looking for a quick lunch solution, our list has something for everyone. With a range of flavors from tangy and creamy to spicy and smoky, we’ve got you covered with the most mouthwatering chicken salads out there. So go ahead, scroll down, and discover your new favorite recipe!
Classic Chicken Salad with Celery and Mayo
This timeless recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on your favorite bread, crackers, or greens.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Avocado Lime Chicken Salad
This Avocado Lime Chicken Salad is a creamy and zesty twist on traditional chicken salad, perfect for warm weather or any occasion. The combination of juicy chicken, ripe avocado, and tangy lime juice will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, lime juice, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 15 minutes)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This Greek-inspired chicken salad is a perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors, making it an excellent addition to your lunchbox or dinner plate. With the creaminess of Greek yogurt and the crunch of fresh veggies, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, red onion, and cucumber.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and mix again.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad!
Curry Chicken Salad with Raisins
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the warmth of curry powder with sweet raisins and crunchy celery for a delicious and refreshing snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped celery and raisins.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on whole grain bread, crackers, or on its own as a snack.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the natural sweetness of corn and the crunch of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brush with BBQ sauce.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, corn kernels, and diced red bell pepper.
6. Top with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and juicy chicken, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, cranberries, walnuts, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey.
2. Mix until well combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a cold salad preparation.
Pesto Chicken Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, making it a perfect addition to your summer meals. With its vibrant colors and tangy taste, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pesto, and mixed greens.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the salad mixture.
3. Sprinkle with feta cheese if using.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad combines the heat of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of ranch dressing, all on top of a bed of crisp greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce
– 1 tsp ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, blue cheese, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. Drizzle buffalo sauce over the top and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle ranch dressing evenly over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
This sweet and tangy chicken salad recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy texture and flavorful dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and honey mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the flavors of crispy chicken, crunchy pecans, and tender apples, all bound together with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced Granny Smith apple
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, apple, pecans, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad
A classic combination of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and juicy chicken, this salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures for any meal or occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bacon, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the top and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe
This Asian-inspired salad combines crunchy chicken with sweet sesame dressing and crispy vegetables, making it a perfect healthy meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, carrots, and toasted sesame seeds.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Olives
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Olives Recipe
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing chicken salad recipe, featuring juicy olives and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olives, onion, feta, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Chipotle Lime Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotles with the brightness of lime juice to create a bold and refreshing chicken salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Chicken Salad
Pineapple Coconut Chicken Salad Recipe
This tropical-inspired salad combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and crunchy greens, making it a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, pineapple chunks, and shredded coconut.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (using pre-cooked chicken)
Garlic Herb Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines juicy chicken with aromatic garlic and herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With only a few ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, garlic, parsley, and dill.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Add vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad! This easy-to-make recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the crunch of greens.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and mixed greens.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assuming cooked chicken)
Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Salad
This spicy and creamy salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, crunchy jalapeños, and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious twist on traditional chicken salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, avocado, and cilantro.
2. Add the chopped jalapeños and stir until well combined.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad.
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (uses pre-cooked chicken)
Summary
Looking for quick and easy chicken salad recipes? You’re in luck! This article features 18 delicious and simple chicken salad recipes that can be made with just 5 ingredients or less. From classic flavors to international twists, these recipes are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Try the Classic Chicken Salad with Celery and Mayo, Avocado Lime Chicken Salad, or Curry Chicken Salad with Raisins – there’s something for everyone! With minimal ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll be enjoying your favorite chicken salad in no time.
