Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner? Look no further than these 20 whole foods chicken salad recipes! From classic combinations to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got you covered. With a focus on using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, these salads are not only tasty but also nutritious.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite whole foods chicken salad recipes that incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and start whipping up your own delicious whole foods chicken salads!
Classic Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Celery and Grapes
This refreshing salad combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes for a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s also an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 cup red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, celery, and grapes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture; 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. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime, all on top of juicy chicken and a bed of crunchy greens. A perfect blend of healthy fats and protein to keep you satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Toss until the ingredients are well coated.
3. Add sliced red onion and mixed greens. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes; cooking/assembly time: 5-10 minutes)
Greek Yogurt Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing chicken salad recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the wholesomeness of fresh vegetables, making it a perfect snack or light lunch. With its zesty flavors and textures, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Stir in chopped parsley and Dijon mustard.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to serve straight from the refrigerator.
Curry Spiced Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A flavorful and healthy salad that combines the goodness of whole foods with the warmth of curry spices, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked brown rice, and diced chicken breast.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, curry powder, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with diced red bell pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Walnut Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This Apple Walnut Whole Foods Chicken Salad recipe combines the flavors of crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and juicy chicken, all brought together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is packed with nutritious ingredients and bursts with autumnal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe apples, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, apples, and walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Cranberry Almond Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of almonds and the wholesomeness of whole foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cranberries, almonds, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Olives and Feta
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with protein-packed chicken, tangy feta, and crunchy olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive tapenade
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or bake the chicken breast until cooked through.
2. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced olives, crumbled feta, chopped red onion, and chicken.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive tapenade.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sriracha sauce with whole foods like chicken, avocado, and quinoa for a delicious and nutritious salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, quinoa, avocado, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sriracha sauce and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean, featuring juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s also a great option for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup whole wheat mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, pesto, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
2. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place the mixed greens on a serving plate or in a container. Top with the chicken salad mixture.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Asian-Inspired Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
Nourish your body and soul with this vibrant, flavor-packed salad that combines the richness of sesame dressing with the wholesomeness of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a blender, combine sesame seeds, rice vinegar, and remaining 1 tbsp soy sauce. Blend until smooth to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted chicken, sliced bell peppers, carrots, and scallions.
5. Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Elevate your chicken salad game with this sweet and tangy recipe featuring whole foods ingredients! This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
3. Pour the glaze mixture over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tarragon Dijon Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of whole foods chicken, the tanginess of Dijon mustard, and the subtle anise flavor of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked whole foods chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped tarragon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Bacon and Blue Cheese Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the savory goodness of chicken, crispy bacon, and pungent blue cheese with the wholesome goodness of whole foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cooked chicken.
2. Top with crispy bacon, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Black Beans and Corn
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the best of Southwestern cuisine with the wholesomeness of whole foods. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Herb Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines juicy chicken with a zesty lemon-herb dressing, all atop a bed of crisp greens and crunchy whole foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, parsley, mint, and nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the diced chicken to the dressing mixture and toss until coated.
4. Pour the chicken-dressing mixture over the salad greens and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale and the protein-packed goodness of chicken breast. The result is a healthy and delicious salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped curly kale, stems removed
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, kale, chicken, and bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (quinoa cooking time not included)
Peach and Pecan Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing chicken salad combines the sweetness of peaches with the crunch of pecans and the tanginess of whole foods dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons whole foods dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, peaches, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together whole foods dressing and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chipotle Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This vibrant salad combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, fresh lime juice, and whole foods ingredients to create a deliciously healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, quinoa, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and chipotle peppers.
3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat.
4. Combine the chicken mixture with the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines roasted red peppers with juicy chicken, crunchy whole foods, and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 roasted red bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed whole foods (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and soft.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, roasted red peppers, parsley, basil, feta cheese (if using), and whole foods.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting red peppers) + preparation time
Hummus and Veggie Whole Foods Chicken Salad Wrap
This refreshing wrap is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The creamy hummus and crunchy veggies complement the savory chicken and crispy whole wheat perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup whole wheat wrap
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Spread the hummus on the center of the whole wheat wrap.
2. Top with cooked chicken breast, mixed greens, cucumber, and bell peppers.
3. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (not including cooking time for chicken)
Summary
Discover 20 delicious whole foods chicken salad recipes that are not only mouthwatering but also packed with nutrients. From classic combinations to innovative twists, these healthy salads feature fresh ingredients like avocado, lime, Greek yogurt, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or simply satisfying, there’s a recipe here for everyone. With ingredients readily available at your local whole foods store, get ready to take your lunch game to the next level with these tasty and nutritious chicken salads.
