Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make lunch or dinner idea? Look no further! Whole foods chicken salad recipes are a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and flavor all in one bowl. And the best part? You can customize these salads to suit your taste preferences with a variety of creamy dressings, crunchy toppings, and nutritious whole foods.
From classic combinations like avocado and lime to more adventurous pairings like mango and coconut, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes for you to try. Each salad features lean chicken breast or thighs as the star ingredient, paired with an array of nutrient-dense ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy meal prep option or a health-conscious individual seeking inspiration for a balanced diet, these creamy whole foods chicken salads have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of whole foods chicken salad recipes and share our favorite combinations that showcase the perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and convenience. So grab a fork, get ready to dig in, and let’s explore the wonderful world of creamy whole foods chicken salads!
Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a healthy serving of whole foods. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced avocado, and mixed greens.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 0 minutes)
Greek Yogurt Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Grapes
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the natural sweetness of grapes, all wrapped up in a healthy dose of whole foods. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup seedless red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, grapes, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-vinegar mixture 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. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Curry Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Almonds
This flavorful salad combines the richness of whole foods chicken with the warmth of curry and crunch of almonds, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. With minimal prep time, this recipe is quick to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cilantro, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, curry powder, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavor of roasted chicken, crunchy walnuts, sweet apples, and a hint of tanginess from the Greek yogurt. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, apple, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Pesto Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes with the tenderness of whole foods chicken. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a topping for your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine diced chicken breast, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve on top of mixed greens or as a standalone salad.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep) + none (cook)
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
This recipe combines tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans to create a deliciously healthy salad perfect for lunch or dinner. The sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken, making this salad a standout.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, cranberries, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve on lettuce leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10 minutes or less.
Spicy Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Jalapeños
This recipe combines the freshness of whole foods with a kick of spice from jalapeños, creating a delicious and unique chicken salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and chopped jalapeño.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Mango and Coconut
This Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Mango and Coconut combines the freshness of whole ingredients with the warmth of tropical flavors, making it a perfect snack or light lunch. With the sweetness of mango and the creaminess of coconut, this salad is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mango, and coconut.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes.
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Quinoa and Spinach
This refreshing salad combines protein-rich chicken, nutty quinoa, and leafy spinach for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect as a lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, quinoa, spinach, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Cashews
Elevate your chicken salad game with this refreshing Whole Foods-inspired recipe that combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and crunchy cashews. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (or cashews)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pineapple, cilantro, and nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Celery and Dill
This classic chicken salad recipe combines the creamy richness of Greek yogurt, the crunch of fresh celery, and the brightness of dill for a deliciously light and refreshing snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, celery, yogurt, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped dill.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assembly only)
Servings: 4-6
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Celery and Dill!
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Blueberries and Basil
This refreshing chicken salad recipe combines the bold flavors of whole foods with the sweetness of blueberries and the brightness of basil. A perfect side dish or light lunch for a warm summer day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup blueberries, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, feta cheese, and basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in blueberries.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
This wholesome salad combines roasted sweet potatoes, crispy kale, and juicy chicken breast, all tied together with a tangy dressing. A perfect blend of flavors and textures for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast sweet potato for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Massage kale leaves with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and vinegar. Sauté in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potato, grilled chicken, and sautéed kale.
6. Top with diced hard-boiled eggs (if using) and drizzle with Dijon mustard.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Chickpeas and Tahini
This nutritious salad combines the creamy richness of tahini with the protein-packed goodness of chicken, chickpeas, and mixed greens. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken, chickpeas, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
3. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls. Top with the chicken-chickpea mixture.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Oranges and Pistachios
This refreshing salad combines the juiciness of oranges, crunch of pistachios, and tenderness of chicken for a delightful flavor experience. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, oranges, mint, and pistachios.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and orange juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just minutes.
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Mint
This light and revitalizing chicken salad recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, crunchy cucumber, and cooling mint for a perfect summer snack or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this refreshing treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup whole wheat mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken, cucumber, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
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 and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time), no cooking required.
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Beets and Goat Cheese
This refreshing salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flavorful chicken package. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 medium beets, peeled and roasted (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, beets, goat cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Farro and Arugula
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of farro with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, all topped with juicy chicken and peppery arugula. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, diced chicken, and arugula leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the farro-chicken-arugula mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes cooking time for farro)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken salad game with these creamy whole foods recipes! From Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad to Sweet Potatoes and Kale, there’s something for everyone. Try Greek Yogurt Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Grapes for a sweet twist or Curry Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Almonds for an international flair. These 18 recipes combine nutritious ingredients like quinoa, spinach, and blueberries with tangy dressings and crunchy textures. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these whole foods chicken salads are sure to become your new go-to meals!
