Keto Chicken Salad: 15-Minute Creamy Delight to Savor

Name: Keto Chicken Salad: 15-Minute Creamy Delight to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup celery, diced; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup almonds, slivered; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 29, 2025

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Let me tell you about my go-to dish for busy weeknights: keto chicken salad! This quick and healthy salad is packed with flavor and makes for a satisfying meal that keeps me on track with my low-carb lifestyle. I mean, who doesn’t love a creamy, crunchy salad that’s ready to eat in just 15 minutes? Seriously, it’s a lifesaver! I whip this up when I have leftover chicken, and it never disappoints. With its zesty lemon juice and the delightful crunch of almonds, every bite is a burst of deliciousness. Plus, you can customize it however you like! Whether you’re enjoying it on a bed of romaine or in a low-carb wrap, this keto chicken salad is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. So, let’s dive into how to make this fabulous recipe!

keto chicken salad - detail 1

Ingredients List

To make this delicious keto chicken salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Opt for full-fat mayonnaise for a creamier texture and to keep it keto-friendly.
1/4 cup celery, diced: Adds a refreshing crunch; make sure it’s chopped finely.
1/4 cup green onions, sliced: The green tops bring a mild onion flavor that complements the chicken.
1/4 cup almonds, slivered: For an extra crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to toast them for added depth.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking for the best flavor.

How to Prepare Keto Chicken Salad

Making this keto chicken salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time! First, grab a large mixing bowl because that’s where all the magic happens. Start by adding those 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. If you’re using leftover chicken, just shred it right in the bowl – it saves on dishes!

Next, dollop in 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. I like to use full-fat mayo for that rich creaminess, but you do you! Now, toss in the 1/4 cup of diced celery and 1/4 cup of sliced green onions. These add a delightful crunch and freshness, which is what makes this salad so addictive. Stir everything together gently, making sure the chicken is well-coated in that luscious mayo.

Now comes the fun part! Add in 1/4 cup of slivered almonds for that extra crunch. I often give them a quick toast in a dry pan beforehand – it really ramps up the flavor! Then, squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This little burst of acidity brightens everything up; trust me, it makes a huge difference! Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skip this part; it’s where you really elevate the flavors!

Once everything is mixed well, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t rush it! When you’re ready to serve, you can scoop this deliciousness onto crisp lettuce leaves or wrap it up in your favorite low-carb wrap. Enjoy every bite of this quick and healthy keto chicken salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This keto chicken salad isn’t just delicious; it’s a game changer for your meal prep! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it supports your low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or swap things out to suit your tastes.
Great for Leftovers: Use up leftover chicken effortlessly while creating something fresh and exciting.
Deliciously Satisfying: The creamy mayo combined with crunchy veggies makes every bite a delight!

Tips for Success

To ensure your keto chicken salad turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, be sure to use well-cooked chicken, as dry chicken can lead to a less flavorful salad. If you’re using leftover chicken, make sure it’s not too cold; letting it sit at room temperature for a bit helps with mixing.

Next, don’t skimp on seasoning! A good sprinkle of salt and pepper really enhances the flavors, so taste as you go. Also, remember to chill the salad for that 30 minutes; it makes a world of difference in blending the flavors together. And finally, feel free to experiment with add-ins, but try to keep the balance of creamy and crunchy elements for that perfect texture!

Variations of Keto Chicken Salad

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to switch up this keto chicken salad! Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, mix in some mashed avocado. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats!
Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile and add a burst of freshness.
Fruit Fusion: Try adding diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

These variations keep the recipe exciting and allow you to tailor it to your preferences, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional data for one serving of this delightful keto chicken salad:

Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugar: 1g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your keto chicken salad is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Whenever you’re ready to enjoy it again, no need to heat it up – this salad is actually best served cold! If you prefer it warm, I recommend gently reheating it in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot and lose that delightful creamy texture. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this keto chicken salad? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

Can I use canned chicken? Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a convenient option, just make sure to drain it well before using.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes! This salad keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container.
Can I make this salad dairy-free? Sure thing! Simply omit any cheese and ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free.
How can I make this a low-carb chicken salad? Stick to the ingredients listed, and feel free to swap any higher-carb items for low-carb alternatives.
What if I don’t have almonds? No problem! You can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for that crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This keto chicken salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides for a complete meal! I love serving it on a bed of crisp romaine or butter lettuce to keep things light and refreshing. You could also scoop it into low-carb wraps or lettuce cups for a fun twist. If you’re in the mood for something warm, a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy cauliflower mash complements the salad beautifully. For a bit of crunch, try some homemade keto crackers or cheese crisps on the side. These options not only enhance the meal but also keep it deliciously satisfying!

For more tips on healthy eating, check out this guide on the keto diet.

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, you might enjoy this air fryer ginger soy chicken breast recipe.

And for a quick and easy side dish, try this air fryer broccolini recipe!