This Creamy Keto Chicken Salad is a yummy mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a smooth, rich dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Add your favorite herbs for a fresh twist—basil or dill work wonders! I love that it’s low in carbs, so I can enjoy it without worry. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the star here. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or even leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Mayonnaise: Avocado oil mayo is fantastic for this recipe due to its creamy texture and healthy fats. You can also make homemade mayo or use classic mayo. If you’re vegan, opt for aquafaba mayo.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You may substitute it with sour cream or additional mayo if you prefer a richer flavor. Plant-based yogurt is a great alternative too!
Celery and Red Onion: These add crunch and flavor. If you don’t have celery, you can try bell peppers for crunch. For red onion, sliced green onions can work well, too!
Dill Pickles: They provide a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have dill pickles, gherkin or even sweet pickles can do the trick. Add a splash of pickle juice for extra zest!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Truly Creamy?
To achieve that perfect creaminess in your chicken salad, balance is key! Start by thoroughly combining mayonnaise and Greek yogurt in a large mixing bowl. This base should be smooth and mix well before adding the other ingredients.
- Mix the mayonnaise and yogurt into a consistent texture before adding diced vegetables.
- When incorporating chicken and the diced veggies, fold them in gently to keep the salad light.
- Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps to meld the flavors together and enhances the creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil or homemade)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
Vegetables & Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy keto chicken salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. This short resting time helps all the lovely flavors mix together nicely. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine your shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix these ingredients well together until they form a creamy base.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, it’s time to add in some crunch and flavor! Stir in the finely diced celery, chopped red onion, and chopped dill pickles. If you’re using fresh dill, toss that in now too. Give everything a good stir to ensure the veggies are evenly mixed in with the chicken and creamy base.
3. Season It Up:
Now, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. These seasonings will bring your salad to life! Mix everything thoroughly so that the chicken is fully coated with the dressing and the flavors blend perfectly.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes—this lets the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to eat, serve it on its own, spoon it onto crisp lettuce leaves for a light wrap, or enjoy it with keto-friendly crackers. Yum!
Enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breast or thighs first—grilling, boiling, or baking them until fully cooked. Let it cool, shred, and then add it to your salad. For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken while cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use sour cream as a substitute for similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise to maintain the creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid adding ingredients like lettuce until you’re ready to serve, as they may wilt in the dressing.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance! Just follow all the steps, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. This gives the flavors more time to develop, making it even tastier!
