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15 Keto Chicken Salad Ideas for Easy Lunches
Did you know that incorporating Keto lunches can help you maintain your energy levels throughout the day while keeping your carb intake low? If you’re looking for delicious and satisfying options, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore 15 irresistible Keto chicken salad ideas, from Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad to Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad, offering you tasty ways to enjoy a healthy meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Get ready to elevate your lunchtime routine!
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Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad
This Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad combines the rich, buttery flavor of ripe avocados with tender chicken, creating a delightful and healthy dish. With a touch of lime and fresh herbs, it delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the mashed avocado and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken, red onion, celery, and cilantro until everything is coated in the creamy mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve immediately on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or with your favorite crackers.
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to customize by adding other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
Pesto Grilled Chicken Salad
This Pesto Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of tender chicken marinated in vibrant basil pesto, complemented by crisp greens and fresh vegetables. The bold flavors and refreshing textures make it a perfect dish for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the basil pesto to marinate.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear.
4. Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
6. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad, drizzle with the remaining basil pesto and balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken for a couple of hours in advance.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or avocado for more texture.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with grilled bread on the side.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
This Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish bursting with zesty flavors. The combination of lime, cilantro, and tender chicken makes it an irresistible choice for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Gently fold in the diced avocado and feta cheese, if using.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Tips:
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Customize by adding other veggies like bell peppers or cucumber.
- This salad pairs well with tortilla chips or over a bed of greens.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Salad
This Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s not only delicious but also a healthy option for any meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider including sliced bell peppers or radishes.
- This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor that complements the lemon and herbs beautifully.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with fresh greens, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The contrasting textures and spices make it a standout choice for any salad lover.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
2. In another bowl, toss the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion together.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently.
4. Top the salad mixture with the buffalo chicken and sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top.
5. Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken.
- Feel free to substitute grilled chicken for a lighter version or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Let the buffalo chicken marinate in the sauce for a few minutes for deeper flavor.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta is a refreshing and vibrant dish, bursting with flavors from juicy grilled chicken, tangy feta cheese, and crisp vegetables. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil and herbs before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or artichokes according to your taste.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Try adding avocados for a creamy texture and additional nutrition.
Caesar Chicken Salad with Keto Croutons
This Caesar Chicken Salad with Keto Croutons is a delightful blend of savory chicken, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons, making it a low-carb favorite. The rich flavors of Caesar dressing combined with the freshness of greens create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup almond flour (for croutons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for croutons)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for croutons)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (for croutons)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for the Keto croutons.
2. In a bowl, mix together the almond flour, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crunchy.
4. While the croutons are baking, in a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad mixture, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients.
6. Once the croutons are done, let them cool for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
7. Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Caesar dressing before cooking.
- Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like cucumbers or avocado to enhance the salad.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep croutons separate to maintain their crunch.
Chicken and Blackberry Spinach Salad
This Chicken and Blackberry Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of savory chicken, juicy blackberries, and fresh spinach, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. The combination of sweet and tart blackberries with the savory grilled chicken creates a refreshing flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup blackberries, fresh
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach and sliced chicken breast.
2. Add the blackberries and crumbled feta cheese on top of the spinach and chicken.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the entire salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss everything together until well mixed.
6. Serve immediately while fresh, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving for a chilled option.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices before cooking.
- Opt for grilled or roasted chicken for a smoky taste.
- Feel free to substitute other nuts or fruits based on your preference.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled white wine.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad
This BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad combines the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken with the creaminess of ranch dressing, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, it’s packed with flavors and textures!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until the chicken is fully coated.
2. On a large serving platter or individual bowls, layer the mixed salad greens as the base.
3. Top the greens with the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, and red onion.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad.
5. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad to taste and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider adding some tortilla strips on top before serving.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or use grilled chicken for an extra smoky flavor.
- Make it ahead by prepping the ingredients separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Dill
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with Dill is a scrumptious and healthy twist on a classic dish, offering a creamy texture while keeping it light and fresh. The vibrant flavors of dill and tangy yogurt make it a perfect lunch option or a delightful addition to your get-together.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
- 4 whole grain or lettuce wraps (for serving)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, diced red onion, chopped dill, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed and coated with the yogurt.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
4. If desired, gently fold in the halved grapes for a touch of sweetness.
5. Serve the chicken salad in whole grain wraps or on lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
Tips:
- This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For added crunch, consider including chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds.
- Experiment by adding other ingredients like diced apples or cranberries for variation.
Caprese Chicken Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This Caprese Chicken Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a vibrant dish that perfectly balances the juicy flavors of grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all enhanced by a tangy sweet glaze. It’s a refreshing option that makes a healthy meal shine.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gently toss the ingredients together until well mixed.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning before cooking.
- Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with feta cheese for a different twist.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Curried Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
These Curried Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps are a delightful twist on traditional salad, boasting vibrant flavors of curry and freshness from crisp lettuce. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic spices makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup diced apples
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8-10 large lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, curry powder, chopped celery, diced apples, raisins, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Carefully wash and dry the lettuce leaves, ensuring they remain whole for wrapping.
3. Spoon the curried chicken salad mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
4. Fold the sides of the lettuce over the filling and enjoy as a wrap, or serve the salad mixture on top of the lettuce leaves.
Tips:
- Add chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Substitute the Greek yogurt with mayonnaise if preferred.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different types of lettuce for varying texture and taste.
Chipotle Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
This Chipotle Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing combines the smoky heat of chipotle with the creaminess of avocado, creating a fresh and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons water
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chipotle powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, then sprinkle over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
3. To make the avocado dressing, combine the avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and water in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider topping the salad with tortilla strips.
- You can substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream for a different flavor.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until serving.
Waldorf Chicken Salad with Walnuts
This Waldorf Chicken Salad with Walnuts is a delightful combination of tender chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts, making it a refreshing and savory dish. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with a creamy dressing, appeals to all palates.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 1 cup diced apples (such as Gala or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup halved grapes (red or green)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced apples, chopped celery, halved grapes, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve on a bed of greens or in a sandwich, as desired.
Tips:
- For added texture, consider using roasted walnuts instead of raw.
- Experiment with different fruits like pears or dried cranberries.
- This salad can be made a day in advance, just add the walnuts right before serving to maintain their crunch.
Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad with Cabbage
This Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad with Cabbage is a delightful fusion of fresh, vibrant ingredients that deliver a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. The combination of savory chicken, zesty ginger, and nutty sesame creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the cabbage mixture and pour the dressing over the top.
4. Toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salad before serving, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, add some toasted almonds or peanuts.
- Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- This salad can be made a few hours in advance; just add the sesame seeds right before serving.
