21 Most Delicious Chicken Salad Recipes

Chicken salad is a perennial favorite—easy to make, endlessly versatile, and packed with protein.

From the classic creamy version to globally inspired twists, there’s a chicken salad for every taste and occasion.

Ready to explore mouthwatering combinations? Here are 21 delicious chicken salad recipes you can whip up for lunch, dinner, picnics, or potlucks!

1. Classic Creamy Chicken Salad

A tried-and-true Classic Creamy Chicken Salad that makes the perfect filling for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
2. 1/2 cup celery, diced
3. 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
4. 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)
5. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. Recipe Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, and onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk mayo (or mayo + yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir dressing into the chicken mixture until well coated.
4. Serve in sandwiches, lettuce cups, or as a standalone salad.

2. Chicken Caesar Salad

A classic Chicken Caesar Salad with crispy romaine, tangy dressing, and plenty of Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced or shredded
2. 1 large romaine lettuce head, chopped
3. 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (light or homemade)
4. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. 1 cup croutons (optional)
6. Black pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced chicken, and croutons.
2. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss well.
3. Top with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately.

3. Avocado Chicken Salad

Creamy avocado replaces some (or all) of the mayo in this Avocado Chicken Salad, making it both rich and nutritious.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
2. 1 ripe avocado, mashed
3. 1/4 cup diced red onion
4. Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. In a bowl, mash avocado with lemon (or lime) juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Fold in chicken and diced onion until well combined.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately to prevent browning.

4. Waldorf Chicken Salad

Sweet apples, crunchy celery, and grapes add flavor and texture to this Waldorf Chicken Salad favorite.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
1 apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1/2 cup grapes, halved
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

In a large bowl, mix chicken, apple, grapes, celery, and walnuts.
Stir in mayo (or yogurt) until everything is coated.
Season with salt and pepper. Chill before serving for the best flavor.

5. Greek Chicken Salad

Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Chicken Salad features feta cheese, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 1 cup cucumber, diced
4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
6. 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
7. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
8. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Arrange lettuce, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, and olives in a salad bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad.
4. Top with crumbled feta. Toss gently and serve.

6. Southwest Chicken Salad

Black beans, corn, and a cilantro-lime dressing give this Southwest Chicken Salad a bold, zesty flair.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 1/2 cup black beans (canned, drained)
4. 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
5. 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
6. 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons lime juice
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/2 teaspoon cumin
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine lettuce, chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes.
2. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

7. Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad

A crunchy Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame-ginger dressing.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2. 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
3. 1 cup shredded carrots
4. 2 green onions, chopped
5. 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2. 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
3. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
4. 1 teaspoon grated ginger
5. 1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice

Recipe Steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix chicken, cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
2. Whisk dressing ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss.
4. Top with chopped peanuts if desired.

8. BBQ Chicken Salad

Sweet and tangy barbecue sauce elevates this BBQ Chicken Salad, perfect for summer cookouts or a quick lunch.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 1/2 cup corn kernels
4. 1/2 cup black beans, drained
5. 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
6. 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
7. 2 tablespoons ranch or Greek yogurt (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Toss lettuce, corn, black beans, and peppers in a salad bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix chicken with barbecue sauce.
3. Spoon BBQ chicken on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with ranch or Greek yogurt if desired.

9. Chicken Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil star in this Chicken Caprese Salad, a lighter spin on the classic Italian caprese.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
2. 2 cups mixed greens or spinach
3. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4. 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or use mini bocconcini
5. Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Dressing:

1. 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Arrange greens, tomatoes, mozzarella, and chicken in a bowl.
2. Whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad.
4. Scatter basil leaves on top and serve.

10. Curried Chicken Salad

Curry powder brings warmth and depth to this Curried Chicken Salad, which often includes fruit for a sweet contrast.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
2. 1/2 cup diced apple or grapes
3. 1/2 cup celery, chopped
4. 1/4 cup red onion, chopped (optional)
5. 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
6. 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild or spicy)
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. In a bowl, whisk mayo (or yogurt) with curry powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in chicken, apple (or grapes), celery, and onion.
3. Chill before serving to let flavors develop.

11. Chicken Taco Salad

Turn taco night into a lighter affair with this Chicken Taco Salad, featuring spiced chicken, fresh lettuce, and all your favorite toppings.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2. 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
3. 4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
4. 1/2 cup black beans, drained
5. 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
6. 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
7. Salsa or Greek yogurt (for topping)

Recipe Steps:

1. Warm chicken in a skillet with taco seasoning and a splash of water if needed.
2. In a bowl, place lettuce, black beans, and tomatoes.
3. Add seasoned chicken.
4. Top with cheese if desired, plus salsa or Greek yogurt.

12. Chicken and Fruit Salad

This Chicken and Fruit Salad combines sweet seasonal fruit (like berries or peaches) with savory chicken for a refreshing meal.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups mixed greens or spinach
2. 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
3. 1 cup fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, peaches)
4. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Arrange greens and sliced chicken in a bowl.
2. Top with fruit.
3. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette, plus salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve immediately.

13. Chicken and Quinoa Power Salad

Hearty quinoa adds fiber and protein to this Chicken and Quinoa Power Salad, making it extra filling.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup quinoa, uncooked (makes ~3 cups cooked)
2. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
3. 1 cup chopped cucumber
4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 2 cups baby spinach
6. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
7. 1 tablespoon olive oil
8. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, and spinach.
3. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper; pour over the salad.
4. Toss gently and serve.

14. Chicken and Arugula Salad with Parmesan

Peppery arugula and salty Parmesan deliver a big flavor in this Chicken and Arugula Salad.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
2. 4 cups arugula
3. 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
4. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
5. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
6. Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Place arugula in a salad bowl.
2. Top with sliced chicken and shaved Parmesan.
3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and serve immediately.

15. Chicken Shawarma Salad

Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, this Chicken Shawarma Salad uses spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy yogurt sauce.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, seasoned with shawarma spices (cumin, paprika, garlic, etc.)
2. 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
3. 1 cup cucumber, diced
4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 1/4 cup red onion, sliced (optional)

Yogurt Sauce:

1. 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
3. 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Arrange lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion in a bowl.
2. Add spiced chicken on top.
3. Stir yogurt sauce ingredients together; drizzle over the salad.

16. Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

Peanut dressing steals the show in this Thai Peanut Chicken Salad loaded with crunchy veggies and tender chicken.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2. 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
3. 1 cup shredded carrots
4. 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
5. 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (optional)

Peanut Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons peanut butter (natural)
2. 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
3. 1 tablespoon lime juice
4. 1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice
5. Water to thin if needed

Recipe Steps:

1. In a small bowl, whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
2. Combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle peanut dressing over the mixture; toss well.
4. Top with chopped peanuts if desired.

17. Pesto Chicken Salad

Fresh basil pesto adds vibrant color and flavor to this Pesto Chicken Salad, which can be served on bread or greens.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2. 1/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
3. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional)
4. 1/4 cup diced cherry tomatoes (optional)
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Stir pesto and optional mayo/yogurt together in a bowl.
2. Fold in shredded chicken and cherry tomatoes (if using).
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or on top of greens.

18. Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Salad

Indulgent yet easy, this Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Salad is a crowd-pleaser, combining savory bacon with cool ranch dressing.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Recipe Steps:

1. In a salad bowl, combine lettuce, chicken, bacon, and tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with ranch dressing.
3. Toss gently and serve immediately.

19. Harvest Chicken Salad

This Harvest Chicken Salad pairs chicken with fall-inspired ingredients like roasted butternut squash, apples, or cranberries.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 30 minutes (including roasting time if using squash)
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients (example combination):

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
2. 2 cups mixed greens
3. 1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes
4. 1/2 apple, thinly sliced
5. 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Roast cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for ~20 minutes (if not using pre-roasted).
2. In a bowl, place greens, chicken, roasted squash, apple slices, and cranberries.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients and pour over the salad.
4. Toss gently and enjoy.

20. Chicken BLT Salad

All the goodness of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—combined with chicken for this hearty Chicken BLT Salad.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
4. 1 cup diced tomatoes
5. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or ranch (for a drizzle)

Recipe Steps:

1. In a large bowl, layer lettuce, bacon, tomatoes, and chicken.
2. Drizzle with mayo or ranch dressing.
3. Toss gently and serve immediately.

21. Chicken and Orzo Pasta Salad

Light yet satisfying, this Chicken and Orzo Pasta Salad balances tender orzo with juicy chicken and bright vegetables.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked (makes ~2 cups cooked)
2. 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
3. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4. 1/2 cup diced cucumber
5. 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
6. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
7. 2 tablespoons olive oil
8. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
3. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper; pour over the salad.
4. Toss gently. Serve at room temperature or chilled.