If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe is your answer!
Packed with shredded chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise, it’s the perfect recipe for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
Whether you’re trying to whip up something simple for the family or craving a light, refreshing meal, this chicken salad has got your back.
I’m excited to share this recipe because it has been my go-to for busy weekdays when I need something healthy, fast, and absolutely delicious.
Plus, I’ve added a few personal tips that will make this chicken salad even better than the version you may have tried at Zoe’s Kitchen!
Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe
This Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe is light yet satisfying and easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. It’s perfect for tossing into sandwiches or serving over a bed of fresh greens!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main or Side Dish
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: 4 servings
- Calories Per Serving: Approx. 200-250
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup diced red onion (optional, for added crunch)
Ingredient Variations:
- Substitutes For Mayonnaise: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Add-Ins: Try adding a handful of chopped grapes or walnuts for a sweet and crunchy variation.
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep The Chicken:
If you’re using freshly cooked chicken, make sure it’s cooled down before shredding. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken because it saves time and tastes amazing. Shred the chicken finely with a fork. - Mix The Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced celery, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-combined. - Add Flavor Boosters (optional):
For that extra flavor punch, I like to mix in a bit of Dijon mustard and a splash of fresh lemon juice. It brightens up the flavors and adds a slight tang that makes the salad irresistible! - Taste And Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chicken salad. If necessary, adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt or pepper. I also recommend chilling it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. - Serve And Enjoy:
Your Zoe’s Chicken Salad is ready to serve! I love eating it on toasted bread as a sandwich or as a topping for a light, refreshing salad.
Cooking Tips For Zoe’s Chicken Salad
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your chicken salad in a sandwich, wrap, or on a bed of mixed greens. You can even pair it with some crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing iced tea for the ultimate lunch.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- For a low-carb version, ditch the bread and serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps or on cucumber slices.
- Want it dairy-free? Simply swap out mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative.
- Leftover Storage:
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, wait to add ingredients like grapes or nuts until just before serving.
Is Chicken Salad Actually Healthy?
Absolutely! Chicken salad made with fresh, whole ingredients like lean chicken breast, celery, and a lighter dressing can be a nutritious option.
Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe can be made even healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, reducing the calorie and fat content while still delivering plenty of protein.
Is It OK To Eat Chicken Salad Every Day?
Eating chicken salad daily can be part of a balanced diet, especially when made with lean protein like chicken breast and healthy fats like avocado or olive oil.
Just make sure to switch up the ingredients to keep things interesting and to ensure you’re getting a variety of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
- Sandwich Style: Spoon your Zoe’s Chicken Salad between two slices of whole grain bread with some crisp lettuce and tomato.
- Salad: Serve it over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens, topped with sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Wrap It Up: For a lighter option, wrap the chicken salad in a whole wheat or lettuce wrap with a few slices of cucumber or bell pepper for added crunch.
Give This Recipe A Try!
I hope you’re excited to try this version of Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe! It’s quick, easy, and customizable to suit your taste.
Whether you’re packing lunch for work or need something to whip up for dinner, this chicken salad will become a go-to in your kitchen.
Let me know how it turns out, and if you made any tweaks of your own! And don’t forget to check out more of my favorite recipes right here on the blog.
Make Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe At Home In Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, for extra tang
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup diced red onion optional, for added crunch
Instructions
Prep The Chicken:
- If you’re using freshly cooked chicken, make sure it’s cooled down before shredding. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken because it saves time and tastes amazing. Shred the chicken finely with a fork.
Mix The Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced celery, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-combined.
Add Flavor Boosters (optional):
- For that extra flavor punch, I like to mix in a bit of Dijon mustard and a splash of fresh lemon juice. It brightens up the flavors and adds a slight tang that makes the salad irresistible!
Taste And Adjust:
- Before serving, taste your chicken salad. If necessary, adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt or pepper. I also recommend chilling it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve And Enjoy:
- Your Zoe’s Chicken Salad is ready to serve! I love eating it on toasted bread as a sandwich or as a topping for a light, refreshing salad.
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