Discover a fresh and zesty lemony chicken salad recipe made with Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Lemony Chicken Salad
This lemony chicken salad recipe is a fresh, protein-packed option that’s perfect for quick lunches or light dinners. Made with tender chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and zesty lemon, it’s both flavorful and refreshing.
The salad is versatile: enjoy it on whole-grain bread, in chicken salad wraps, or over a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb meal. Crunchy add-ins like celery, red onion, or almonds elevate the texture while keeping it healthy.
Ideal for meal prep ideas, this salad stays fresh for days and delivers a satisfying, tangy taste in every bite.
Key Ingredients for Lemony Chicken Salad
| Ingredient | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|
| Chicken (roasted, poached, or rotisserie) | Tender, protein-packed base; convenience option |
| Greek Yogurt | Adds creaminess; healthier alternative to mayonnaise; keeps salad light |
| Lemon Juice & Zest | Provides signature tang and freshness |
| Fresh Herbs (Dill, Tarragon, Basil) | Adds aroma and depth of flavor |
| Celery | Adds crunch and texture |
| Red Onion | Adds sharpness and crunch |
| Slivered Almonds | Adds crunch and nutty flavor |
| Grapes (optional) | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Avocado (optional) | Adds creaminess and richness |
How to Make Lemony Chicken Salad
Ideal for meal prep ideas, keeping lunch fresh and healthy throughout the week.
Prepare Ingredients
- Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces (rotisserie chicken works well).
- Finely chop celery and red onion for crunch and flavor.
- Zest a fresh lemon for a vibrant, zesty note.
Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine Salad
- Gently fold diced chicken and chopped vegetables into the dressing.
- Add optional ingredients like slivered almonds or chopped grapes for extra texture.
Chill
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve
Enjoy on whole-grain bread for sandwiches, in tortillas for wraps, or over leafy greens for a low-carb meal.
Tips for the Best Lemony Chicken Salad
For a perfect lemony chicken salad recipe, use full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess and chill the salad before serving to enhance flavors.
Fresh herbs like dill or tarragon add aroma, while crunchy add-ins—celery, almonds, or grapes—bring texture. Customize with chicken salad variations to suit your taste, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
This lemony chicken salad recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to serve in different ways. Spread it on whole-grain bread or croissants for a satisfying sandwich, or roll it into a tortilla for chicken salad wraps perfect for lunch on the go.
For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach. You can also pair it with crackers or pita chips for a quick snack.
Adding fresh herbs, lemon zest, or crunchy toppings like almonds enhances both flavor and texture, making each serving fresh and vibrant.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
| Nutrient / Component | Amount / Details | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 per serving | Supports weight management while providing energy |
| Protein | High (from chicken & Greek yogurt) | Promotes satiety, muscle repair, and growth |
| Fat | Moderate (from yogurt & optional nuts) | Provides healthy fats for brain function and heart health |
| Carbohydrates | Low | Suitable for low-carb or keto-friendly diets |
| Fiber | Moderate (from vegetables & optional nuts) | Supports digestion and gut health |
| Vitamins & Minerals | From lemon, herbs, and vegetables | Boosts immunity, supports bone health, and provides antioxidants |
| Flavor Profile | Tangy, creamy, crunchy | Encourages healthy eating without sacrificing taste |
Variations to Try
| Variation | Key Ingredients / Add-ins | Flavor / Texture Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Almond Chicken Salad | Slivered almonds | Adds crunch and nutty flavor |
| Lemon Basil Chicken Salad | Fresh basil | Fragrant, herbal flavor |
| Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad | Fresh tarragon | Unique, slightly sweet taste |
| Avocado Lemony Chicken Salad | Diced avocado | Creamy texture, richer flavor |
| Mediterranean Chicken Salad | Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives | Fresh, tangy, and vibrant Mediterranean taste |
FAQ
Q1: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, ensure it’s well-drained and shredded.
Q2: Can I substitute Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or mayonnaise works, but yogurt adds tang and protein.
Q3: How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze it?
Freezing isn’t recommended; yogurt and vegetables may change texture.
Q5: How can I make it low-calorie?
Use yogurt, skip grapes, and serve over greens.
Q6: Can I add nuts?
Yes, almonds or walnuts add crunch and protein.
Final Thoughts
This lemony chicken salad recipe is a light, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for lunches, sandwiches, or meal prep. With zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and optional crunchy add-ins, it’s easy to customize. Enjoy a protein-packed, refreshing salad that’s healthy, satisfying, and delicious in every bite.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
