If you’re looking for a delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make low-carb meal, this Keto Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and crunchy textures, this salad is not only keto-friendly but also incredibly flavorful.
Whether you need a quick lunch, a meal prep option, or a dish for a summer picnic, this creamy chicken salad will keep you full and energized without breaking your carb limit.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Keto Chicken Salad using simple, wholesome ingredients.
Plus, we’ll share some creative ways to serve it so you can enjoy it in multiple ways.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Salad
Quick and Easy to Make
With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes.
Packed with Healthy Fats and Protein
Made with juicy chicken, creamy mayo, and crunchy veggies, this salad is high in protein and contains the good fats your body needs on a keto diet.
Versatile and Customizable
Whether you prefer a classic chicken salad or want to spice it up with different flavors, this recipe is easy to tweak to your liking.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for a quick, ready-to-eat meal throughout the week.
No Added Sugars or Unnecessary Carbs
Unlike store-bought chicken salads that often contain hidden sugars, this homemade version keeps it clean and keto-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Keto Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are both flavorful and low in carbs.
Protein: The Base of the Salad
- Cooked Chicken – You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even canned chicken for convenience.
Healthy Fats: Creamy and Satisfying
- Mayonnaise – Opt for a high-quality mayo without added sugars.
- Avocado (Optional) – Adds extra creaminess and a dose of heart-healthy fats.
Crunchy Add-Ins: For Texture and Flavor
- Celery – Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Cucumbers – Light and crisp, perfect for balance.
- Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Pecans, or Walnuts) – For extra crunch and nutrition.
Flavor Boosters: To Elevate the Taste
- Dijon Mustard – Brings a tangy depth to the salad.
- Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a bit of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, or Chives) – For an extra layer of freshness.
How to Make Keto Chicken Salad – Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Keto Chicken Salad that’s creamy, delicious, and packed with flavor.
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it by boiling, grilling, or baking. Let it cool, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie or canned chicken, drain and shred it before mixing.
Step 2: Chop and Prep the Ingredients
Finely dice the celery, cucumbers, and any other add-ins you’re using. Chop the nuts and fresh herbs.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Adjust the Flavor
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more lemon juice for tang, more mayo for creaminess, or extra herbs for a fresh kick.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Keto-Friendly Serving Ideas
There are plenty of ways to enjoy this Keto Chicken Salad beyond just eating it straight from the bowl! Here are some creative, low-carb serving ideas:
Lettuce Wraps
Scoop the chicken salad into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap.
Stuffed Avocado
Fill half an avocado with a generous portion of chicken salad for a nutrient-packed meal.
Low-Carb Tortilla Wraps
Use a keto-friendly tortilla to make a satisfying wrap. Add extra greens or cheese for more texture.
Cucumber or Bell Pepper Cups
Hollow out cucumber halves or bell pepper halves and stuff them with the chicken salad for a refreshing bite.
Cheese Crisps or Keto Crackers
Scoop the salad with crispy cheese chips or low-carb crackers for a crunchy and savory experience.
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Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Keto Chicken Salad is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add a little spice, go dairy-free, or switch up the flavors, here are some great variations to try.
Spicy Buffalo Keto Chicken Salad
- Swap regular mayo for a mix of mayo and buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add crumbled blue cheese for extra richness.
- Sprinkle in chopped jalapeños if you like even more heat.
Dairy-Free Keto Chicken Salad
- Use avocado or coconut cream instead of mayonnaise for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
- Add extra olive oil or lemon juice for moisture and flavor.
Curry-Flavored Keto Chicken Salad
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of curry powder for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Add chopped almonds or cashews for a slight crunch.
- A handful of cilantro brings freshness to the dish.
Mediterranean-Style Keto Chicken Salad
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt (if you allow a small amount of carbs).
- Stir in kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a bold Mediterranean twist.
- Season with oregano and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Extra Crunchy Keto Chicken Salad
- Add sliced radishes, diced pickles, or slivered almonds for extra texture.
- Sprinkle in toasted sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.
These variations keep the Keto Chicken Salad exciting, so you never get bored with the same flavors.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Making Keto Chicken Salad ahead of time is a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand. Here’s how to store and prep it properly for the best results.
How to Store Keto Chicken Salad
- In the Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from absorbing fridge odors.
- Avoid Freezing: Because of the mayo-based dressing, freezing isn’t recommended as it can separate and affect the texture.
Meal Prep Tips
- Make a Large Batch: Prepare a big portion and divide it into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Keep Wet Ingredients Separate: If adding cucumbers or watery vegetables, store them separately and mix them in just before eating to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Revive the Texture: If the salad dries out a bit, stir in a little more mayo or olive oil before serving.
By following these storage and prep tips, you’ll always have a fresh and delicious Keto Chicken Salad ready when you need it.
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Nutritional Information and Macros
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your Keto Chicken Salad is key to ensuring it fits within your daily macros. This recipe is naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with healthy fats, making it an excellent option for anyone following a ketogenic diet.
Estimated Macros per Serving (1 Cup)
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~2-4g net carbs
- Fiber: ~1g
How This Fits into a Keto Diet
- High in Protein – Helps keep you full and supports muscle maintenance.
- Rich in Healthy Fats – Provides the energy your body needs while staying in ketosis.
- Low in Carbs – No unnecessary sugars or starchy fillers.
For a more precise breakdown, consider using a macro calculator based on the exact ingredients you use.
Final Thoughts
Keto Chicken Salad is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein dish. Whether you enjoy it on its own, wrapped in lettuce, or stuffed into an avocado, this salad is versatile, easy to make, and meal-prep friendly.
With plenty of ways to customize it—from spicy buffalo to Mediterranean flavors—you’ll never get bored of this recipe. Plus, since it only takes 15 minutes to prepare, it’s a go-to option for busy days.
Give this Keto Chicken Salad a try and let us know how you like it! Have a favorite variation? Share it in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, but keep in mind that Greek yogurt contains more carbs than mayo. If you’re okay with a small increase in carbs, use full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy alternative.
2. What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is quick and convenient, while grilled or baked chicken gives a fresh, homemade flavor. If you’re short on time, canned chicken works well too.
3. How can I make this salad even more filling?
Add avocado, cheese, or chopped boiled eggs for extra protein and healthy fats. You can also serve it with low-carb wraps or keto-friendly bread for a more substantial meal.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for the best freshness.
5. How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
If using watery vegetables like cucumbers, add them right before serving. You can also pat the chicken dry before mixing to reduce excess moisture.
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Keto Chicken Salad
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Fork or Hand Mixer (for shredding chicken)
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring Spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken rotisserie, grilled, or boiled
- ½ cup mayonnaise sugar-free, keto-friendly
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor & Texture
- ¼ cup celery finely diced
- ¼ cup cucumber finely diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts almonds, pecans, or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- If using fresh chicken, cook it by boiling, grilling, or baking until fully done.
- Let the chicken cool, then shred it using two forks or a hand mixer for finer texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Mix-Ins
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and stir until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Mix in celery, cucumbers, nuts, and herbs if using.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 15-30 minutes before serving.
- Serve in lettuce wraps, stuffed avocados, or with keto-friendly crackers.
Notes
- Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap mayonnaise for mashed avocado or coconut yogurt.
- Extra Flavor: Add paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes for a little spice.
- Crunchy Additions: Try chopped pickles, bell peppers, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
