Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish made with tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and a vibrant lemon dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or a healthy meal prep option. With its bright citrus notes and savory herbs, this salad is both nourishing and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is packed with protein, quick to make, and bursting with bold flavor. The lemon dressing gives it a tangy lift, while fresh herbs and spices enhance the taste. It’s naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or mix-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast (cubed or shredded)
Fresh lemon juice
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Dijon mustard (optional)
Celery (diced)
Red onion or green onions (chopped)
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, celery, onions, and fresh herbs.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
Serve the chicken salad over a bed of lettuce or greens.
Garnish with extra lemon wedges or herbs as desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare.

Variations

Add avocado or diced cucumber for extra creaminess and crunch.
Stir in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or canned tuna.
Include chickpeas or quinoa to make it more filling.
Use Greek yogurt in the dressing for added creaminess.

storage/reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If serving later, keep the dressing separate and mix before eating. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days if stored properly in a sealed container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Is this salad suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, it is low in carbs and suitable for keto if you skip sugary dressings or add-ons.

What can I serve with it?

Pair it with crusty bread, pita chips, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Can I freeze this chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of fresh vegetables and dressing will change.

Is this salad dairy-free?

Yes, it is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese or yogurt.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I make the salad spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne to the dressing.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Absolutely, leftover grilled or baked chicken works very well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad is a vibrant, wholesome dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. With its bold lemon flavor and crisp, fresh ingredients, it makes a perfect meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re meal-prepping or serving it fresh, this salad brings brightness and nutrition to your table.

Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad

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Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad is a bright and refreshing dish made with tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or healthy meal prep option.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Chill for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve over greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.