Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm? Look no further! Today, we’re excited to share with you 18 delicious and easy 5-ingredient chicken salad recipes that are perfect for quick meals. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a healthy lunch option or a parent seeking a stress-free dinner solution, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to please.
From classic mayonnaise-based salads to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got it all covered in this article. Each recipe requires just 5 ingredients or less, making them easy to whip up and customize to your taste. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the convenience of these quick and tasty chicken salad recipes!
Classic Mayo Chicken Salad
This beloved recipe has been a staple of picnics and potlucks for generations. With its creamy dressing and tender chicken, it’s easy to see why this salad remains a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, arugula, and spinach)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley.
3. Place the mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Spoon the chicken salad over the greens.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a last-minute gathering.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This Greek-inspired chicken salad recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the tanginess of feta cheese, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, feta cheese, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad recipe.
Avocado Lime Chicken Salad
Brighten up your day with this refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of avocado, the tanginess of lime juice, and the juiciness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and red onion.
3. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chicken Salad with Raisins
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken salad with the warmth of Indian-inspired spices, adding a delightful sweetness from raisins. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro and raisins.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve on top of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Walnut Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of apples and walnuts with the savory flavor of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup diced green apple
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, apple, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide mixed greens among four plates and top each plate with the chicken salad.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad combines the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with the tanginess of ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined.
2. Add chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time), plus refrigeration time.
Pesto Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the flavors of basil pesto with juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pesto, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Toss gently until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of almonds and the tenderness of cooked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken, chopped cranberries, and sliced almonds to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls.
5. Spoon the chicken salad mixture over the greens.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Get ready to kick your salad game up a notch with this addictive Buffalo Chicken Salad! A delicious combination of crispy chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, crunchy veggies, and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken and buffalo wing sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together lettuce, bell peppers, and blue cheese (if using).
3. Add the chicken mixture to the bowl with the veggies. Toss to combine.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top and toss again to coat.
5. Garnish with cilantro (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad
This creamy and crunchy salad combines the savory flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and chicken with fresh greens and veggies for a satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing.
2. Add the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + serving time
Spicy Sriracha Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spiciness of sriracha with the juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Add the diced chicken breast and toss to combine.
3. Drizzle the sriracha sauce and olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Celery and Onion Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the crunch of celery with the sweetness of onions to create a delicious and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, and onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the tanginess of dill pickles with the creaminess of mayonnaise, creating a unique and delicious chicken salad. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup diced dill pickles
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, pickles, mayonnaise, parsley, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on top of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and chill.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad is a great way to enjoy the taste of summer year-round. With juicy chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy greens, it’s a delicious combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Chicken Salad
A refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken salad, this Pineapple Coconut Chicken Salad combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut and the savory flavor of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, pineapple, and coconut.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None (uses pre-cooked chicken)
Mustard Honey Chicken Salad
This sweet and tangy chicken salad recipe combines the richness of honey with the spicy kick of mustard, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salad in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mustard and honey until well combined.
2. Add the diced chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the mustard-honey mixture.
3. Stir in chopped celery and red onion.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the mixed greens on a plate or serving dish. Top with the chicken salad mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Herb Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing Garlic Herb Chicken Salad. A perfect blend of savory chicken, tangy greens, and aromatic herbs will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– Croutons and shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken cool before slicing into strips.
7. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced chicken, and croutons (if using).
8. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon Grape Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of tangy grapes, fragrant tarragon, and succulent chicken for a delightful twist on traditional greens. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup red seedless grapes, halved
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, grapes, tarragon, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the mixed greens.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meals? Try these 18 easy 5-ingredient chicken salad recipes! From classic mayo-based salads to international twists like Greek yogurt and curry, there’s something for everyone. Add some crunch with apple and walnut, spice things up with buffalo sauce, or keep it light with avocado and lime. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying lunch or a speedy dinner, these recipes are sure to please. So why wait? Get cooking and enjoy the convenience of these tasty chicken salads!
