This creamy keto chicken salad is packed with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a rich mayo dressing. It’s low in carbs and high in flavor—perfect for a quick lunch!
When I make this salad, I feel like a chef! It’s super easy to whip up and tastes great on lettuce wraps or just by itself. You might just want to eat it all in one sitting! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is fantastic for this recipe—it’s already cooked and full of flavor. If you’re using leftover chicken, that works too! You could even use canned chicken if you’re in a pinch, although it won’t have the same texture.
Mayonnaise: While regular mayonnaise is common, I love using avocado mayonnaise for a healthier touch. You can also make a lighter option by using low-fat mayonnaise or even yogurt if you prefer a tangy taste.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a slight tang. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, any plain yogurt will work, but it won’t be as thick. You could also use sour cream for a different flavor profile.
Veggies: Celery adds crunch, and red onion provides a bite. If you want a milder flavor, use green onions. You can also switch up the pickles for sweet pickles or even omit them if you’re not a fan of pickles.
Nuts: The chopped almonds or walnuts are optional, but I think they add a nice crunch. You can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you’re avoiding nuts or want a different texture.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Has the Right Texture?
The texture of your chicken salad is important for a satisfying bite. Here’s how to achieve that perfect blend:
- Don’t over-shred the chicken; keep some larger pieces to avoid it becoming mushy.
- Mix the mayonnaise and yogurt until creamy, but don’t over-mix once you add the veggies. You want to maintain some integrity in the ingredients.
- Letting it chill in the fridge is key. It helps the flavors come together and the salad firm up, giving it a better texture when you serve it.
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado mayonnaise for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped (or relish if preferred)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup almonds or walnuts, chopped (for added crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy keto chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding your shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until the chicken is nicely coated and creamy. This will be the base of your salad.
2. Add the Crunch and Flavor:
Next, chop up your celery, red onion, and dill pickles if you haven’t done so already. Add these to the bowl along with the fresh dill. Stir everything together really well so you get a good mix of flavors and textures in every bite!
3. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to enhance the flavor! Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture and add salt and pepper to your liking. Mix it all together thoroughly to ensure that every scoop of salad is full of flavor.
4. Add Optional Crunch:
If you like a bit of extra crunch, fold in the chopped almonds or walnuts gently. This is optional but adds a nice texture to the salad.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will let all the delicious flavors meld together. Once ready, serve it chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce, in lettuce wraps, or with low-carb crackers. Enjoy your creamy and tasty keto chicken salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use canned chicken! Just make sure to drain it well, and you might want to shred it a bit to match the texture of shredded rotisserie chicken. This can save you time while prepping your salad.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with more Greek yogurt or use sour cream for a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using an avocado-based mayo or a plant-based yogurt. Adjust the quantities to maintain the creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure freshness, keep the nuts separate until you’re ready to serve if using. This will keep them crunchy!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Definitely! You can make the salad a day ahead. Just remember to refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If using nuts, consider adding them just before serving to keep their crunchiness!
