This creamy keto chicken salad is a real winner! Made with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a rich, tasty dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient and flavorful. If you don’t have it, leftover baked chicken or poached chicken works well too.
Mayonnaise: Avocado or olive oil-based mayo adds healthy fats. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, though it will change the flavor.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt gives creaminess and tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based yogurt alternative, just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Celery: Diced celery adds crunch. Instead of celery, finely chopped cucumbers or bell peppers can be used for a similar texture.
Red Onion: The mild sweetness of red onion brightens the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using green onions instead.
Dill: Fresh dill is wonderful for flavor. If you don’t have it, dried dill also works, just use less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Creamy and Well Mixed?
The key to a creamy chicken salad is to ensure all ingredients are fully combined. Start by mixing the shredded chicken with mayo and Greek yogurt. This forms a nice base for the salad. Add the other ingredients gradually to keep your chicken coated and creamy.
- Mix the chicken, mayo, and yogurt until the chicken is well coated.
- Fold in celery, red onion, dill, and lemon juice gently to keep some texture in the salad.
- Taste your mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes; this really helps the flavors come together!
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie for convenience)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado or olive oil based)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy keto chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. That’s just enough time for the flavors to mix beautifully, making for a delicious meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until the chicken is well coated with the creamy mixture. This will form the base of your salad.
2. Add Crunch and Flavor:
Next, toss in the diced celery, finely chopped red onion, dill, and lemon juice. Each of these ingredients adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor to the salad. Stir gently to combine everything without mashing the veggies.
3. Season to Perfection:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Give it a taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you love dill, you can add a little more for extra flavor.
4. Mix it Up:
Mix all the ingredients together until everything is fully combining to create a cohesive salad. It should look delicious and colorful!
5. Chill and Enjoy:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Serve Your Salad:
Once chilled, your creamy keto chicken salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it on its own, in crisp lettuce wraps, or on keto-friendly bread for a satisfying meal. Dig in and enjoy your healthy treat!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use plain Greek yogurt as a replacement for mayonnaise. Alternatively, mash an avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats, or try a homemade yogurt-based dressing for added flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use regular plain yogurt, although the texture might be slightly thinner. For a dairy-free option, consider using a coconut yogurt that’s unsweetened; just be aware that it will change the flavor profile a bit.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If your salad starts to get watery, it’s just the ingredients separating; stir it gently before serving again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize your salad! Chopped bell peppers, diced cucumbers, or even avocado make great additions. If you like a little crunch, try adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture!
