If you’re tired of the same old chicken salad and craving something new, you’re in the right place! Chicken salads are versatile and can be tailored to any mood or dietary preference.
Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into 22 creative and delicious chicken salad recipes that are sure to spice up your meal planning!
1. Classic Chicken Caesar Salad
A fresh take on the Caesar salad, this dish blends grilled chicken with crispy romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. Topped with shaved Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, it’s a refreshing, savory delight.
The crisp lettuce paired with tender chicken creates the perfect balance of texture and flavor, while the rich dressing ties everything together. This is a timeless classic that will never disappoint.
2. Spinach & Strawberry Chicken Salad
This vibrant salad combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and a sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The sweetness of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the earthy spinach and savory chicken, creating a light and refreshing salad that’s perfect for spring.
3. Apple & Pecan Chicken Salad
Sweet, crunchy, and nutty, this chicken salad is perfect for autumn or any time you’re craving something comforting. Juicy apple slices and crunchy pecans are paired with tender chicken and a creamy dressing made with a bit of honey and mustard.
The sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the pecans bring a delightful contrast to the chicken, making this salad a hearty, satisfying dish that’s full of flavor.
4. Buffalo Chicken Salad
If you love a little spice, then buffalo chicken salad will hit the spot. Shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce is paired with crisp celery, crunchy carrots, and romaine lettuce.
A drizzle of blue cheese dressing ties it all together, adding creaminess to balance the heat. This salad is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of buffalo wings without the mess!
5. Greek Chicken Salad
For a Mediterranean twist, try a Greek chicken salad. Grilled chicken is paired with crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. The addition of a lemony olive oil dressing enhances the bright, fresh flavors of the ingredients.
It’s like taking a bite of Greece, all in one bowl. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite.
6. Curry Chicken Salad
Give your chicken salad a flavor boost with curry powder! This creamy curry chicken salad blends chicken with raisins, apple chunks, and a tangy, spiced mayo dressing. The curry adds warmth, while the raisins bring a touch of sweetness.
This salad is ideal for those who enjoy bold, exotic flavors and a creamy texture. It’s perfect as a sandwich filling or served on a bed of greens.
7. Strawberry & Walnut Chicken Salad
Sweet, tangy, and nutty, this chicken salad combines fresh strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. The chicken is perfectly balanced with the juicy, tangy strawberries, while the walnuts add crunch and depth.
This refreshing salad is especially great for spring and summer, offering a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s a great option for a picnic or light lunch.
8. Pesto Chicken Salad
For those who love Italian flavors, a pesto chicken salad is a must-try. The chicken is tossed with a homemade or store-bought pesto sauce, mixed with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and leafy greens.
This vibrant and aromatic salad is packed with herbs and flavors, making it a satisfying and filling meal. Add some pine nuts for extra texture, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish.
9. Mango Chicken Salad
Mango brings a tropical flair to this refreshing chicken salad. Sweet, juicy mango is combined with grilled chicken, red bell peppers, and avocado. The salad is dressed in a light lime and cilantro vinaigrette, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste.
This salad is perfect for warm weather, offering a combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that are irresistible. A true taste of the tropics!
10. Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad
This salad offers an exciting blend of flavors with tender chicken, crispy cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, all tossed in a sesame ginger dressing. Add some crunchy chow mein noodles or toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
The sesame ginger dressing ties everything together with its savory, sweet, and tangy flavor profile. It’s a great salad for when you want something light but with plenty of exciting flavors.
11. Bacon & Egg Chicken Salad
For a hearty, protein-packed option, this bacon and egg chicken salad is a winner. Combine crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and tender chicken with fresh greens and a creamy mayo-based dressing.
The smoky bacon and rich egg create a decadent salad that’s filling enough for a main meal. This salad is great for brunch or as a satisfying lunch.
12. Pineapple & Chicken Salad
Sweet pineapple adds a tropical twist to this simple chicken salad. Combine diced pineapple with grilled chicken, red peppers, and cilantro. Dress it with a light honey-lime dressing for a refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm weather.
13. Roasted Beet & Chicken Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
For a unique, earthy twist, try a roasted beet and chicken salad. The sweetness of the roasted beets pairs perfectly with tender chicken, goat cheese, and fresh arugula. A balsamic vinaigrette dressing brings everything together, enhancing the sweet, savory flavors.
This is a perfect salad to enjoy during the colder months when you’re craving something a bit heartier but still fresh and healthy.
14. Chickpea & Chicken Salad
For a protein-packed, fiber-rich option, combine chickpeas with chicken in a hearty salad. The chickpeas add a nice texture and a nutritional boost, while the chicken provides the protein.
Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs, and dress it with olive oil and lemon juice. This simple yet satisfying salad is filling, healthy, and perfect for meal prep!
15. Southwest Chicken Salad
Spicy and satisfying, a Southwest chicken salad combines grilled chicken with black beans, corn, avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips.
The salad is dressed in a tangy lime and cilantro dressing, giving it a fresh, zesty flavor. This hearty salad brings the bold flavors of the Southwest right to your table. Perfect for a lunch that packs a punch!
16. Crispy Chicken Salad
For those who love a crunch, a crispy chicken salad is the answer. Tender chicken is breaded and fried, then tossed with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a creamy dressing.
The contrast between the crispy chicken and the fresh, crunchy veggies makes each bite satisfying. It’s a fun twist on the traditional chicken salad that’s sure to please anyone who loves a little extra crunch.
17. Sun-Dried Tomato & Chicken Salad
Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense, umami flavor to this chicken salad. Combined with grilled chicken, arugula, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is packed with bold flavors.
The sun-dried tomatoes infuse the salad with a rich depth, while the arugula offers a peppery bite. This is a perfect choice for when you want something savory and satisfying.
18. Caprese Chicken Salad
Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this chicken version features juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and grilled chicken. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and olive oil for the perfect finish.
The fresh, simple ingredients combine beautifully, offering a light, refreshing salad that’s full of flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a summer lunch or dinner.
19. Chili-Lime Chicken Salad
For a spicy and zesty twist, try a chili-lime chicken salad. Toss together grilled chicken, black beans, corn, cilantro, and red onions with a zesty chili-lime dressing.
The heat from the chili and the tang from the lime give the salad a bold and exciting flavor. It’s a great choice for those who love spicy food with a bit of citrus freshness.
20. Tropical Chicken Salad
A tropical chicken salad brings together chicken, pineapple, mango, and coconut, creating a sweet and savory dish with a tropical flair.
The combination of juicy fruits and tender chicken is refreshing, while the coconut adds a bit of crunch. This light salad is perfect for summer picnics or a tropical-inspired meal.
21. Cauliflower & Chicken Salad
For a low-carb twist on traditional chicken salad, cauliflower makes an excellent substitute for rice or pasta. Roasted cauliflower florets are tossed with grilled chicken, red onions, and a tangy mustard dressing.
This salad is hearty yet light, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to reduce their carbs without sacrificing flavor.
22. Zucchini & Chicken Salad
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. Thinly sliced zucchini, mixed with chicken, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette, creates a light, fresh salad with plenty of crunch. This is a great choice for a low-calorie, low-carb salad that’s still filling and flavorful.