9 Salad Recipes With Chicken You Will Actually Crave

Are you stuck in a lunch rut, staring down the barrel of another sad desk salad or a lackluster sandwich? It’s a familiar feeling. You want something that’s quick, healthy, and easy to pack, but the thought of another boring meal is enough to make you give up and order takeout.

The biggest culprit is often the well-intentioned but frequently bland chicken salad. We’ve all had it: that one-note, mayo-heavy mixture that feels more like a chore to eat than a treat. It’s time to break free from that stale routine. It’s time to get excited about lunch again.

A truly crave-worthy chicken salad balances creamy, savory, and fresh flavors with a variety of textures. It uses a well-seasoned dressing, tender chicken, and includes creative additions like fruit, nuts, or spices to create a memorable and satisfying dish that goes far beyond the basic combination of chicken and mayonnaise.

Tired of the Same Old Boring Lunch?

A truly crave-worthy chicken salad balances creamy, savory, and fresh flavors with a variety of textures. It uses a well-seasoned dressing, tender chicken, and includes exciting additions like fruit, nuts, or spices to create a memorable and satisfying dish that goes far beyond the basic combination of chicken and mayonnaise. If you’re looking for easy lunch ideas or a brilliant way to use up leftover chicken, you’ve come to the right place.

In my experience, the difference between a “meh” chicken salad and a “wow” chicken salad is all in the details. It’s about thinking of the chicken salad not as a single recipe, but as a formula that you can adapt to your cravings. After testing dozens of combinations, we’ve perfected the formulas for chicken salads that are anything but ordinary, focusing on texture, flavor, and that ‘wow’ factor. Prepare to transform this classic dish into something you will genuinely look forward to eating.

The Foundation: Mastering the Perfect Chicken for Salad

The best chicken for chicken salad is moist and flavorful. The biggest mistake you can make is starting with dry, bland chicken; it will ruin the final product no matter how good your dressing is. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is the fastest method, but poaching chicken breasts in seasoned broth until just cooked through ensures they remain tender and easy to shred.

Here’s a breakdown of your best options for preparing the perfect chicken base:

• Rotisserie Chicken (The Shortcut): This is my go-to for speed and flavor. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and moist. Simply pull the meat from the bones and shred or dice it. The mix of dark and white meat adds extra flavor.
• Poached Chicken (The Classic): Poaching is a gentle cooking method that guarantees tender, juicy chicken. The key is to add flavor to the poaching liquid. Don’t just use plain water! Add a quartered onion, a stalk of celery, a bay leaf, and some peppercorns to the water. Bring it to a simmer, add your chicken breasts, and cook gently until they’re just done. This infuses the chicken with a beautiful, savory flavor from the inside out.
• Baked or Grilled Chicken (The Flavor Boost): If you have leftover baked or grilled chicken, it’s a fantastic option. The slight char or browning from these cooking methods adds a smoky depth to the salad. Just make sure it was well-seasoned to begin with.
• Canned Chicken (In a Pinch): While not my first choice for texture, canned chicken can work if you’re in a hurry. Be sure to drain it very well to avoid a watery salad. I recommend using it in recipes with lots of bold flavors and crunchy ingredients to offset its softer texture.

9 Salad Recipes With Chicken You Will Actually Crave (Updated for 2025)

Ready to find your new favorite lunch? Each of these 9 recipes has been kitchen-tested to guarantee delicious results. We’ve included a variety of flavor profiles, from classic comfort to bold and adventurous, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every palate. Each recipe also includes a pro-tip from our own experience to make it even better.

Here are the best chicken salad variations to try:

1. The Ultimate Classic Chicken Salad
2. “Sassy Scotty” Copycat Chicken Salad
3. Creamy Curry Chicken Salad with Grapes
4. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad
5. Healthy Avocado & Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
6. Grilled Caprese Chicken Salad
7. Blackberry, Pecan & Blue Cheese Chicken Salad
8. Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad
9. Smoky Paprika & Hot Honey Chicken Salad

1. The Ultimate Classic Chicken Salad

This recipe is for a perfectly balanced, traditional chicken salad. It’s creamy, crunchy, and bright, hitting all the right notes for a satisfying and nostalgic lunch. This is the foundational recipe that proves “classic” never has to mean “boring.”

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and red onion.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold on bread, with crackers, or on a bed of lettuce.

Pro Tip: For the best texture, use a mix of shredded and finely diced chicken. The variation creates a more interesting bite and helps the salad bind together perfectly.

Pin this classic recipe for the perfect lunch!

2. “Sassy Scotty” Copycat Chicken Salad

This is a savory flavor bomb that combines bacon, ranch, and cheddar cheese. It’s a copycat of the popular version from Chicken Salad Chick, and it’s unbelievably delicious and satisfying for those days when you need pure comfort food.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and celery.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and ranch dressing until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly cooked, crispy bacon and shred your own cheddar cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the salad texture slightly gritty.

Craving something savory? Save this copycat recipe now!

3. Creamy Curry Chicken Salad with Grapes

This version delivers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors. The warmth of the curry powder is perfectly complemented by sweet bursts of juicy grapes and the crunchy texture of toasted almonds. It’s an elegant and slightly exotic twist on the classic.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup halved red grapes
  • 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped scallions
  • 1.5 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, curry powder, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, halved grapes, toasted almonds, celery, and scallions.
  3. Pour the curry dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until everything is well-coated.
  4. For best results, chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Pro Tip: Toast the curry powder in a dry skillet for 30-60 seconds over medium heat before adding it to the mayonnaise. This blooms the spices and deepens their flavor significantly.

Add a touch of spice to your lunch! Pin this curry chicken salad.

4. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad

This salad captures all the addictive, tangy, and spicy flavors of buffalo wings in a cool, creamy form. It’s a perfect low-carb lunch idea when served in lettuce wraps or with celery sticks, and it always satisfies a craving for something bold.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup buffalo-style hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, blue cheese, celery, and green onions.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and hot sauce until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until combined.
  4. Serve immediately or chill. It’s excellent in lettuce wraps or with celery sticks for dipping.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a creamier, less intense blue cheese flavor, swap the mayonnaise for an equal amount of blue cheese or ranch dressing. This provides creaminess and flavor in one step.

Love buffalo wings? You have to try this salad. Save it now!

5. Healthy Avocado & Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

For a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, this recipe uses creamy avocado and tangy Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It’s packed with healthy fats and protein, and the bright flavors of cilantro and lime make it incredibly fresh and delicious.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 finely diced jalapeño (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cilantro, jalapeño, and red onion.
  2. In a separate bowl, mash the avocado with the Greek yogurt and lime juice until mostly smooth. Season well with salt and pepper.
  3. Add the avocado mixture to the chicken and stir to combine.
  4. Serve immediately for the best color and texture.

Pro Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning too quickly, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before refrigerating. The lime juice also helps, but direct contact is key.

Pin this healthy, mayo-free recipe for a guilt-free lunch!

6. Grilled Caprese Chicken Salad

This is summer in a bowl. It’s a fresh, light, and vibrant salad inspired by Italian Caprese flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze is simply unbeatable on a warm day.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups grilled and diced chicken
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup small fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the diced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently.
  3. Just before serving, drizzle with the balsamic glaze and toss one last time.
  4. This salad is best served immediately or shortly after making to keep the basil fresh.

Pro Tip: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinaigrette before grilling. The smoky char from the grill adds an incredible depth that contrasts beautifully with the fresh ingredients.

Get a taste of summer! Save this fresh Caprese salad idea.

7. Blackberry, Pecan & Blue Cheese Chicken Salad

This is an elegant, sophisticated chicken salad with a unique sweet and savory flavor profile. The juicy, tart blackberries, toasty pecans, and pungent blue cheese create a gourmet experience that’s perfect for a fancy lunch or a light, impressive dinner.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and balsamic vinaigrette.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, toasted pecans, blue cheese, and chives.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently.
  4. Carefully fold in the fresh blackberries last to prevent them from breaking apart. Serve chilled on a bed of greens.

Pro Tip: Use a quality blackberry balsamic vinaigrette if you can find it to double down on the flavor. If using regular balsamic vinaigrette, a tiny drop of honey in the dressing can help balance the tang of the cheese.

Ready for a gourmet lunch? Pin this elegant recipe!

8. Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad

This recipe offers a refreshing, zesty alternative with classic Asian flavors. The nutty sesame oil, spicy ginger, and salty soy sauce create a dressing that’s packed with umami and pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables for a light yet satisfying meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove grated garlic
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to create the dressing.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumber.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Toss to coat.
  4. Stir in the fresh cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve in lettuce cups or over rice noodles.

Pro Tip: For extra crunch and flavor, add a handful of crispy chow mein noodles or crushed peanuts just before serving. This adds a fantastic textural contrast.

Save this recipe for a fresh and flavorful twist on chicken salad!

9. Smoky Paprika & Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Get ready for a bold flavor experience. This recipe combines deep, smoky paprika with the trendy sweet-heat of hot honey. The addition of tangy dill pickles cuts through the richness, creating a complex and incredibly addictive chicken salad that’s perfect for sandwiches.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded smoked chicken (or regular chicken + 1 tsp liquid smoke)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp hot honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced dill pickles
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, hot honey, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, pickles, and parsley. If not using smoked chicken, add liquid smoke here and toss to coat.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
  4. Chill for at least an hour to allow the smoky flavors to develop.

Pro Tip: The key to this recipe is balance. If your hot honey is very spicy, you might want to add a little extra regular honey. If it’s very sweet, a bit more apple cider vinegar will brighten it up. Taste and adjust the dressing before mixing it in.

Pin this smoky & sweet recipe for your next sandwich masterpiece!

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to salad recipes with chicken

Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know to make incredible chicken salad every single time.

• The Foundation is Key: Always start with moist, flavorful chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but poaching at home with aromatics yields fantastic results.
• Balance is Everything: A great chicken salad balances creamy (mayo, yogurt, avocado), crunchy (celery, nuts, onions), and acidic (lemon juice, vinegar) elements.
• Don’t Fear Flavor: Move beyond the classic. Simple additions like curry powder, hot sauce, fresh herbs, or smoked paprika can completely transform your salad.
• Chill for Flavor: Letting your chicken salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen for a much better taste.
• Meal Prep Smart: Most of these salads can be made ahead. Store your chicken salad in an airtight container for 3-5 days. For salads with delicate greens or fruit (like the Caprese or Blackberry), it’s best to assemble them just before serving.

People Also Ask About salad recipes with chicken

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making chicken salad.

How long does homemade chicken salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade chicken salad will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Always use fresh ingredients and ensure your refrigerator is at or below 40°F (4°C) to maximize freshness and safety. If it develops an off smell or appearance, discard it immediately.

What is a healthy substitute for mayonnaise in chicken salad?

Plain Greek yogurt is the most popular healthy substitute for mayonnaise. It provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being lower in fat and higher in protein. Other excellent options include mashed avocado for creaminess and healthy fats, or a vinaigrette-style dressing for a lighter, mayo-free version, like in our Grilled Caprese Chicken Salad.

Can you freeze chicken salad?

It is generally not recommended to freeze chicken salad, especially if it’s made with mayonnaise. Upon thawing, the mayonnaise can separate, resulting in a watery, oily, and unappetizing texture. Salads made with Greek yogurt can also suffer textural changes, becoming grainy. For the best results, prepare chicken salad fresh and store it in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, chicken salad is a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity, not a boring, obligatory lunch. Think of these recipes as a starting point. Feel free to mix and match ingredients, swap herbs, or try different nuts and fruits. The perfect chicken salad is the one that you find most delicious.

Now that you have these 9 ideas to break out of your lunch slump, there’s only one question left to answer.

Which crave-worthy chicken salad will you try first? Let me know in the comments below