Keto Chicken Salad Recipe: 15 Min
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Introduction
When it comes to keto-friendly lunches, a keto chicken salad recipe is a classic option that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With its combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this salad fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re trying to stay on track with your keto diet or simply looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, this chicken salad is packed with flavor and will keep you feeling full for hours. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it ideal for busy afternoons or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped) (find fresh chicken at Amazon Fresh)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (use a keto-friendly brand)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup mixed greens or lettuce (e.g., arugula, spinach, or Romaine)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill, for garnish
- A salad spinner for washing and drying lettuce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start with cooked chicken. If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, this is the perfect way to repurpose it. If not, you can quickly cook chicken breasts on the stove or in the oven. To keep it keto-friendly, avoid breading or using any carb-heavy marinades. Once the chicken is cooked, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the vegetables
While your chicken is cooling, dice the avocado, chop the red onion, and slice the celery. You can adjust the amount of these ingredients to suit your taste. If you like more crunch, add extra celery; for more creaminess, add a bit more avocado. Use a salad spinner to wash and dry your lettuce or greens thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Make the dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Mix well to create a creamy dressing. This dressing will add the right amount of tanginess and creaminess to your salad while keeping it low-carb.
Step 4: Combine the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the chicken, diced avocado, chopped vegetables, and the salad greens. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 5: Optional add-ins
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, or drizzle with a little olive oil for a boost of healthy fats. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can also be used as a garnish for a burst of color and added flavor.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Once everything is mixed and well-coated, your keto chicken salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it immediately, or store it in the fridge for a make-ahead meal. This salad also makes a great lunch for meal prepping, as it keeps well for 2–3 days in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Net Carbs: 4g
This keto chicken salad recipe is packed with healthy fats from the avocado and mayonnaise, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The protein from the chicken will keep you full and satisfied, while the fiber from the vegetables helps with digestion. Plus, the low-carb content makes it a great option for anyone looking to stay within their carb limit.
Conclusion
This keto chicken salad recipe is a must-try for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re in a rush or preparing meals for the week ahead, this salad will keep you on track with your health goals while satisfying your taste buds.
For an extra layer of flavor, try different herbs, add-ins like cheese or nuts, or a squeeze of lemon to keep it fresh and exciting. As a bonus, you can easily meal prep this salad for the week, making it a convenient and nutritious choice.
Do you have your own keto tips or favorite add-ins for chicken salad? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear your ideas. And don’t forget to pin this recipe for future reference on Pinterest!
For more delicious and healthy meals, check out our Healthy Recipes and Quick Meals sections for more quick and nutritious options.