25 Creative and Delicious Chicken Salad Recipes to Try
Let’s be honest, chicken salad is such a versatile dish. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing, hearty and satisfying, or completely unique, there’s a chicken salad recipe for you.
What makes it even better is how easy it is to customize depending on your cravings or what you’ve got on hand. I always enjoy exploring new variations, and today, we’ve rounded up 25 chicken salad recipes that take this classic to exciting new heights. Let’s dig in together!
1. Chicken Salad Recipe with Grapes
Sweet, juicy grapes are the secret to elevating your chicken salad. This recipe pairs shredded chicken with red and green grapes, giving you a delightful balance of flavors in each bite.
Add crunch with chopped celery and nuts, like almonds or walnuts, and toss everything in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise and a splash of lemon juice. The sweetness of the grapes and the creaminess of the dressing make this dish feel fresh yet indulgent.
Don’t miss the full recipe for this sweet and savory delight!
2. Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Who doesn’t love chicken salad tucked inside soft bread or a flaky croissant? A chicken salad sandwich combines shredded chicken with celery, onion, mayonnaise, and mustard for a simple yet flavorful filling.
You can jazz it up with extras like sliced avocado, crisp lettuce, or some dill for an added burst of flavor. Perfect for lunch on the go or a casual get-together with friends.
Find out how to make the best sandwich filling here!
3. Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
Yes, you can make an amazing chicken salad in a pinch with canned chicken! Start by draining the canned chicken and mixing it with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a handful of chopped veggies like onions and celery. Add a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for a touch of extra flavor. The best part? This recipe is so quick and easy, ideal for busy days when you want something satisfying.
Try this easy canned chicken salad recipe today!
4. Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe
This variation combines the savory flavor of chicken with the tartness of dried cranberries. Mix shredded chicken with mayo, celery, chopped pecans, and cranberries for a salad that’s vibrant and full of texture. The cranberries add a festive flair to the dish, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or just as a treat for yourself on a cozy weekend.
Discover every delicious detail about this recipe here!
5. Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Sometimes, you can’t beat the classics. A traditional chicken salad typically features chicken breast, mayo, celery, onion, and salt and pepper. It’s perfect for those who prefer a simple, no-fuss recipe where the ingredients shine through. Pair it with crackers, serve it on a bed of greens, or go traditional with sandwich bread. Either way, this classic will never fail you.
Check out the complete classic recipe here!
6. Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe
If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is the chicken salad for you. Shredded chicken is tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce, and then mixed with crunchy celery and creamy ranch dressing. Add blue cheese crumbles for an extra layer of zing, and you’ve got a bold salad that’s totally addictive. It’s a game-day must or simply a fun twist to spice up your week.
Find this spicy creation here and give it a try!
7. Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe
Rotisserie chicken gives chicken salad a flavorful head start. Shred the already seasoned chicken and mix it with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a handful of chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro. Add nuts or fruit for customization and enjoy this effortless yet incredibly tasty dish.
Get the most flavor-packed recipe details here!
8. Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwich Recipe
Think of this as a blend of Caesar salad and chicken salad, but with the portability of a sandwich! Shredded chicken is mixed with creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy romaine lettuce, then loaded into a sandwich. The tangy dressing and cheesy goodness will keep you coming back for more bites.
Find out how to make this creation here!
9. Chinese Chicken Salad Dressing Recipe
This unique take highlights the dressing rather than the chicken. Whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a touch of honey to create a flavorful Chinese-inspired dressing. Toss this zesty dressing with shredded chicken, crispy veggies, and crunchy noodles for a salad bursting with texture.
Check out this recipe to whip up the dressing!
10. Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
Southern-style chicken salad is rich in flavor, often made with hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickle relish, mayonnaise, and finely chopped chicken. The key here is the sweetness from the relish, which adds a distinct Southern flair. It’s a hearty and comforting dish best enjoyed with crackers or in a sandwich.
Dive into this Southern classic recipe now!
11. Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe
This recipe is a fun and flavorful twist on everyday chicken salad! The Sassy Scotty chicken salad is all about creamy textures and bold tastes. It combines shredded chicken with chopped bacon, finely diced celery, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy mix of mayonnaise and ranch seasoning.
The combination of smoky bacon and cheesy goodness perfectly complements the tender chicken, making it a fan favorite. You can serve it with crackers, stuffed in a croissant, or over a bed of lettuce for a quick and delicious meal.
Don’t miss out on this sassy, savory salad! Try the full recipe today!
12. Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
For Caesar salad lovers, adding chicken into the mix takes the dish to another level. This version blends crisp romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan, crunchy croutons, and moist, shredded chicken with a creamy Caesar dressing.
The result? A hearty salad with rich umami flavors that satisfies your crunchy, creamy, and fresh cravings in one go. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for an added indulgence and serve it as a main course or a side dish.
Dive into the details of this Caesar-inspired recipe here!
13. Curry Chicken Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed option with a hint of spice, curry chicken salad is your best bet. This unique recipe combines tender chicken with creamy mayonnaise and a splash of yogurt for tanginess.
Mix in curry powder, raisins, apples, and almonds for an incredible depth of flavor and texture. The curry gives it warmth, while the raisins and apples add a delightful sweetness. This salad pairs wonderfully with naan bread or can be served as lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Get the full breakdown of this bold and delicious recipe here!
14. Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe
This chicken salad variation lives up to its “fancy” name with its gourmet twist. Fancy Nancy chicken salad features chunks of chicken mixed with creamy mayonnaise, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and sweet apple bits.
Add some toasted pecans for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The result is a slightly sweet, deliciously creamy salad that feels elevated but remains totally approachable. Serve it on a salad platter for brunch or tuck it into buttery croissants for a restaurant-worthy lunch.
You’re going to love this delightful recipe! Check it out now!
15. Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad Recipe
If you’re nostalgic for Chick-fil-A’s famous chicken salad, this copycat recipe hits the spot. Its signature smooth texture blends finely chopped chicken with mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and hard-boiled eggs.
The balance between tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors makes it stand out from other chicken salads. Whether you serve it on toasted bread, pair it with crackers, or enjoy it solo, this recipe brings those classic flavors right to your table.
Recreate this iconic Chick-fil-A dish at home! Check out the recipe here!
16. Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe
This zesty variation brings the fiesta to your plate! Mexican chicken salad combines shredded chicken with black beans, corn, diced avocado, lime juice, and a touch of cumin. Toss it all in a dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a little hot sauce for a flavorful kick.
Sprinkle fresh cilantro and a crumble of cotija cheese on top for authentic Mexican vibes. Serve it with tortilla chips or stuff it into a taco shell to turn salad night into a celebration!
Spice up your salad game with this recipe, and find it all here!
17. Costco Chicken Salad Recipe
Costco’s legendary chicken salad has a cult following, and now you can make it at home! This recipe is all about simplicity and deliciousness. It focuses on the perfect mix of shredded rotisserie chicken with creamy mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, and just the right amount of seasoning.
You can tweak it by adding hard-boiled eggs or diced apples, but the charm lies in its creamy, savory simplicity. Serve it with crackers or spread it over your favorite bread for a Costco-inspired treat.
Learn how to whip up this classic copycat recipe here!
18. Asian Chicken Salad Recipe
Bold flavors and crunchy textures make this Asian chicken salad a standout. Mix shredded chicken with shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions, then dress it in a tangy sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar.
Top it all off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, crispy wontons, and crushed peanuts for added crunch. This perfectly balanced salad is light, refreshing, and packed with umami goodness.
Don’t wait to try this Asian classic! See all the details here!
19. Panera Chicken Salad Recipe
Panera fans, rejoice! This copycat recipe recreates the creamy, dreamy chicken salad from the restaurant menu. Made with tender chicken, chopped celery, onion, mayonnaise, and a hint of Dijon mustard, it has a balanced flavor that feels both comforting and slightly tangy. Serve this with a baguette and leafy greens, and you’ll feel like you’re sitting in your favorite café.
Take your homemade salad game to the next level with this recipe!
20. Chicken Salad Recipe with Apples
Adding apples to chicken salad gives it a refreshing and crispy twist. This recipe combines juicy chicken with diced apple chunks, crunchy celery, and tart dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and honey.
The apples and cranberries provide sweet and tangy notes, while the celery adds the perfect crunch. It’s a fresh, vibrant salad that’s perfect for spring lunches or casual dinner sides.
This zesty and crisp recipe is ready for you to try!
21. BBQ Chicken Salad Recipe
Get ready to enjoy smoky, tangy flavors in BBQ chicken salad! This recipe starts with shredded chicken coated in your favorite barbecue sauce, adding rich smokiness to every bite. Toss the chicken with crisp romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, grilled corn, black beans, and crunchy tortilla strips.
Drizzle it with a creamy ranch or a tangy BBQ ranch dressing to tie everything together. You can even top it off with shredded cheese or a dollop of guacamole for extra indulgence. Perfect for summer picnics or any time you’re craving barbecue flavors in salad form!
Grab all the details to whip this up at home today!
22. Chicken Taco Salad Recipe
Craving tacos? This chicken taco salad gives you all the taco goodness without the shell. Shredded chicken is sautéed with taco seasoning and mixed into a bed of romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and jalapeños.
Add black beans, shredded cheese, and avocado slices for delicious variety. For the dressing, combine salsa and sour cream or go bold with a cilantro lime dressing. Don’t forget the crushed tortilla chips on top for that ultimate taco crunch!
Check out this recipe and spice up your dinner routine!
23. Arby’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Missing Arby’s Market Fresh chicken salad? You can easily recreate it at home. This version mixes shredded chicken with mayonnaise, chopped red apples, crushed pecans, and sweet red grapes.
The combination of creamy dressing, sweet fruit, and nutty crunch delivers the signature taste you love from Arby’s. It makes a perfect filling for sandwiches or can be served as a fresh, fruity salad on its own.
Recreate your favorite Arby’s classic with this recipe guide!
24. BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
What could make a classic BLT even better? Adding chicken, of course! This chicken salad features all the favorites from a BLT sandwich: chopped bacon, crispy lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, paired with tender shredded chicken.
Toss everything in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, a dash of mustard, and a hint of lemon juice. Serve it on toasted bread for a hearty sandwich or enjoy it with crackers for an easy lunch option.
Give this irresistible BLT-inspired salad a try today!
25. Classic Carol Chicken Salad Chick Recipe
We’re rounding things off with one of the most beloved chicken salad recipes inspired by Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol. This is a delightfully simple yet flavorful blend of shredded chicken, mayonnaise, finely minced celery, and the perfect amount of seasoning.
With its creamy, savory taste, this recipe focuses on letting the chicken shine. Serve it as a low-carb option over lettuce leaves or as a filling in buttery croissants for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Enjoy the taste of a restaurant favorite at home with this recipe!
