This creamy keto chicken salad is a tasty treat! Made with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a smooth dressing, it’s both healthy and filling.
I love serving it on lettuce wraps for a fun twist. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for lunch or a snack when you’re in a rush!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and full of flavor. If you prefer, poaching your own chicken is a healthier choice. You can also use turkey if you have leftovers!
Mayonnaise: For a keto-friendly option, avocado oil mayo is my go-to choice. It’s creamy and packed with healthy fats. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan mayo, which can work just as well!
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds extra creaminess. If you want to keep it dairy-free, consider using coconut yogurt or skip it altogether. The salad will still be tasty!
Celery & Red Onion: These add crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan of red onion, green onions or shallots are good substitutes. For a sweeter touch, try finely chopped bell peppers.
Dill: Fresh dill is aromatic and refreshing. If you can’t find it, dried dill is a fine option. I often add a bit more when using dried since the flavor is milder.
Nuts: Pecans and walnuts add crunch and richness. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well, or you can just omit them!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Stays Creamy?
To achieve that perfect creamy consistency, mix your mayonnaise and Greek yogurt into the shredded chicken thoroughly. This ensures every piece of chicken is coated. If it feels too thick, add a small splash of lemon juice or water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Ensure your chicken is completely cooled before mixing, as warm chicken can alter the texture.
- Toss gently when adding other ingredients to keep the chicken shreds intact and avoid a mushy salad.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully, and the salad becomes even creamier!
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (can use rotisserie or poached)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil mayo for keto)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy keto chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Give it a good mix until the chicken is well-coated and everything is combined.
2. Adding Vegetables and Herbs:
Next, add in the finely chopped celery, red onion, dill, and lemon juice. Stir gently so that the ingredients come together without breaking the chicken apart. The dill and lemon juice will add a fresh flavor!
3. Seasoning to Taste:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, mixing well. Don’t be afraid to taste it and adjust the seasoning based on your preferences!
4. Adding a Crunch (Optional):
If you chose to include nuts for that extra crunch, gently fold them into the mixture now. Pecans or walnuts will add a lovely texture and flavor to your salad!
5. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow all those delicious flavors to meld together.
6. Serving it Up:
When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy keto chicken salad, serve it on a fresh bed of greens, in crisp lettuce wraps, or just dig right in with a spoon! It’s a tasty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient option. Just drain and rinse it before shredding, then proceed with the recipe as usual. Keep in mind that canned chicken can be a bit saltier, so adjust the salt when seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a mayo alternative, plain Greek yogurt works great and will keep the dish creamy! You can also use sour cream or an avocado-based dressing, but be mindful that flavors may vary slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it cold, and it’s best enjoyed cold after the flavors have had time to meld!
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumber for extra crunch or switch up the herbs with parsley or basil. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for a flavor twist!
