How to Make an Easy Keto Chicken Salad Recipe

Last updated on March 12, 2025

Starting a low-carb diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Enter the Keto Chicken Salad Recipe—a protein-packed, nutrient-rich dish that’s about to become your go-to meal. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet, living a paleo-friendly lifestyle, or simply looking for a healthier, weight-loss-friendly option, this salad has you covered.

Made with fresh, clean ingredients and bursting with vibrant flavors, this gluten-free dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Say goodbye to carb-heavy meals and hello to a delicious, guilt-free option that keeps you on track with your health goals.

Hungry for more keto lunch ideas? Try my Tasty Keto Chicken Breast Recipes or chicken with peanut butter -recipe

What is Keto Chicken Salad?

Keto chicken salad is a creamy, savory dish designed for low-carb and ketogenic diets. It combines tender, shredded chicken with a rich, low-carb dressing (think mayo or avocado-based) and crunchy, fresh veggies. The result? A satisfying meal that’s both delicious and diet-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Salad

Protein-Rich and Low-Carb

The star of this dish is lean, cooked chicken, which is packed with high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, keeping you full, and supporting your energy levels. Plus, the low-carb nature of this salad helps your body stay in ketosis—a state where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbs.

Perfect for Meal Prep and On-the-Go

Busy schedule? No problem. This keto chicken salad is a meal prep superstar. Whip up a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a ready-to-go, protein-packed meal whenever hunger strikes. It’s portable, versatile, and ideal for lunches, snacks, or even quick dinners.

Nutrient-Dense and Satisfying

Packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps you full and satisfied, reducing the urge to snack on carb-heavy foods.

Supports Weight Loss and Ketosis

If you’re on a weight-loss journey or following a ketogenic diet, this salad is your new best friend. The high protein and healthy fat content help your body burn fat efficiently, while the low-carb ingredients keep you in ketosis.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Ingredients for the Perfect Keto Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this low-carb masterpiece:

• 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or avocado for a healthier twist)
• 1 medium avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Keto Chicken Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this delicious, low-carb dish? Follow these easy steps to create a keto chicken salad that’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor.

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—both work great. Poach, bake, or grill them until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. For a time-saving hack, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store!

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (or mashed avocado for a healthier twist) with 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This creates a tangy, creamy base that ties all the flavors together.

Step 3: Add the Crunchy Veggies

Next, toss in 1/2 cup of diced celery and 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion. These veggies add a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.

Step 4: Mix in the Chicken

Add your shredded or chopped chicken to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep the texture light and chunky.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce works wonders.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Seal the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This gives the ingredients time to blend and develop a richer, more harmonious taste. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Keto Chicken Salad

• Plan Ahead: This salad’s flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
• Customize It: Add-ins like diced avocado or chopped nuts can take this dish to the next level.
• Serve It Your Way: Enjoy it on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with keto-friendly crackers for a satisfying meal.

Customize It to Your Taste

One of the best things about this keto chicken salad is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Crunch: Toss in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra texture.
• Creamy Twist: Mix in crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Sweet and Tangy: Add a handful of diced grapes or dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Throw in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Prep Tips

This keto chicken salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• On a Bed of Greens: Serve it over a fresh spinach or arugula salad.
• Lettuce Wraps: Scoop it into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap.
• With Low-Carb Crackers: Enjoy it as a dip with your favorite keto-friendly crackers.
• Meal Prep Magic: Portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Keto Chicken Salad Recipe

A creamy, low-carb salad packed with protein and fresh flavors. Perfect for keto diets, meal prep, or a quick, satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Salad, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 240 kcal

Ingredients

  

2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)

1/2 cup mayonnaise (or avocado for a healthier twist)

1 medium avocado, diced

1/2 cup celery, diced

1/4 cup red onion, diced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Poach, bake, or grill them until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. For a time-saving hack, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store!

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (or mashed avocado for a healthier twist) with 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This creates a tangy, creamy base that ties all the flavors together.

Step 3: Add the Crunchy Veggies

Next, toss in 1/2 cup of diced celery and 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion. These veggies add a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.

Step 4: Mix in the Chicken

Add your shredded or chopped chicken to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep the texture light and chunky.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce works wonders.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	240
Total Fat	18g
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fiber	2g
Net Carbs	2g
Sugar	1g

Keyword Keto Chicken Salad Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

This Keto Chicken Salad Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a game-changer for anyone on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick, satisfying lunch, this salad has you covered. Give it a try and discover why it’s a favorite among keto enthusiasts!