Are you looking for a tasty and healthy way to boost your weight loss efforts? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering chicken salad recipes! With a variety of flavors and textures, there’s something on this list for everyone. From classic Greek yogurt-based salads to more adventurous options like Thai peanut or buffalo-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch option or a fitness enthusiast seeking a nutritious post-workout snack, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. Plus, with their high-protein and low-fat profiles, they’ll help keep you full and satisfied while supporting your weight loss goals.
In this article, we’ll explore each of these 20 delicious healthy chicken salad recipes in more detail, including ingredients, instructions, and nutritional information. So grab a bowl, get ready to mix and mingle with some tasty toppings, and let’s dive into the world of chicken salads!
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy apples, and toasted walnuts with a tangy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken, chopped apple, and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Avocado Lime Chicken Salad with Cilantro
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the freshness of cilantro. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, and lime juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and mix again to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Olives and Feta
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
This refreshing salad combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide mixed greens among bowls or plates.
5. Top with the spicy chicken mixture.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sesame dressing, all inspired by the flavors of Asia. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red bell pepper, carrots, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Add the chicken to the dressing mixture and toss to coat.
4. Pour the chicken mixture over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing and healthy salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of kale with the nutty taste of quinoa, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine kale, quinoa, chicken, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on cooking chicken and quinoa)
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese and Celery
A spicy twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy celery for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, ranch dressing, and buffalo wing sauce. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the blue cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Add the diced celery and mix until evenly distributed.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cucumber and Dill Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
This light and zesty salad is perfect for a warm summer day. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy dill will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cucumbers, and dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine.
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: 10-15 minutes (preparation only)
Pesto Chicken Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the creamy richness of pesto with the burst of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, pesto, parsley, and feta (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or containers.
3. Top each plate with the chicken-pesto mixture, followed by chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn and Black Beans
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of smoky barbecue chicken, sweet corn, and savory black beans for a delightful summer treat. With its balanced mix of textures and tastes, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Let the chicken rest before slicing into strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn kernels, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Add sliced BBQ chicken on top of the salad and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chicken Salad with Raisins and Almonds
This vibrant salad combines the warmth of curry powder with the sweetness of raisins and crunch of almonds, perfect for a quick and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and curry powder until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken breast and stir until well coated.
3. Fold in chopped cilantro, raisins, and almonds.
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, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad with Pecans
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of crisp apples and tangy cranberries with tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup toasted pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat.
4. Combine the chicken mixture with the green salad and stir until well combined.
5. Top with toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Southwest Chicken Salad with Chipotle Dressing
This hearty salad combines juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy chipotle dressing, perfect for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and queso fresco.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle pepper, olive oil, and lime juice.
3. Add the chicken to the salad bowl and toss with dressing until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach and Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the savory flavor of chicken, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and diced chicken.
2. Add sliced strawberries and crumbled feta cheese (if using) on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans (if using) over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Salad with Cabbage and Carrots
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the crunch of fresh vegetables. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory notes that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the chicken breast and toss to coat; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sliced cabbage and grated carrots.
4. Grill or cook the chicken according to your preference; slice into thin strips.
5. Combine the cooked chicken with the cabbage-carrot mixture; drizzle with the peanut sauce and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Caprese Chicken Salad with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a flavorful and refreshing meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 large tomatoes, seeded and diced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad with Roasted Veggies
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the richness of roasted vegetables with the deep flavor of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts (see below)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Roasted Veggies:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Let the chicken rest before slicing into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted veggies, sliced chicken, and balsamic glaze. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea and Chicken Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas and tahini dressing with the savory flavor of cooked chicken, all wrapped up in a crunchy mix of greens and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, chicken, mixed greens, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad 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! Just assemble and serve.
Broccoli and Chicken Salad with Light Ranch
A refreshing twist on traditional ranch dressing, this recipe combines the creaminess of light ranch with the crunch of broccoli and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup light ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, and light ranch dressing.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and broccoli mixture; toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Pineapple Chicken Salad with Coconut and Cashews
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this tropical recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, crunchy cashews, and creamy coconut for a deliciously healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, pineapple, coconut, and cashews.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss 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 or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering healthy chicken salad recipes designed for weight loss. From classic flavors to international twists, these salads are packed with nutritious ingredients and bold flavors. Try the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts, or go spicy with the Sriracha Chicken Salad. Maybe you’ll prefer the creamy Pesto Chicken Salad or the tangy Buffalo Chicken Salad. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a recipe here to satisfy. Get inspired to create your own healthy and delicious chicken salad creations!
