30+ Easy Chicken Salad Lunch Recipes to Brighten Your Midday Meal

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Chicken salad is a timeless favorite for lunch lovers who want something both delicious and easy to prepare.

Whether you prefer creamy classics, vibrant Mediterranean flavors, or bold global twists, chicken salad recipes offer endless variety to keep your midday meals exciting.

Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, these salads make for nutritious, satisfying lunches that can be served on their own, in wraps, or atop greens.

Dive into this collection of 30+ chicken salad lunch recipes that suit every palate and occasion, making meal prep a breeze and lunchtime truly enjoyable.

30+ Easy Chicken Salad Lunch Recipes to Brighten Your Midday Meal

With this diverse selection of chicken salad lunch recipes, you have all the inspiration you need to create flavorful, wholesome meals throughout the week.

From light and refreshing to hearty and indulgent, these salads are perfect for packing ahead or whipping up on a busy day.

Try different dressings, mix in seasonal produce, or experiment with global flavors to keep your lunches interesting and nutritious.

Enjoy the convenience and taste of these chicken salads anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal.

Classic Chicken Salad

This timeless chicken salad is a refreshing and satisfying lunch option, perfect for warm days or light meals.

It combines tender chicken with crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • Celery, diced
  • Seedless grapes, halved
  • Mayonnaise
  • Greek yogurt
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper
  • Chopped walnuts (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  2. Add chicken, celery, grapes, and walnuts. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This classic chicken salad is perfect for a balanced lunch.

The combination of creamy dressing, sweet grapes, and crunchy celery creates a delightful contrast in every bite.

It’s easy to make ahead and pairs wonderfully with bread, crackers, or on a bed of greens.

Avocado Chicken Salad

This creamy avocado chicken salad offers a healthy twist on the traditional recipe.

The avocado adds richness and a silky texture, while lime juice and cilantro bring bright, fresh flavors that elevate this lunch favorite.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Ripe avocado, diced
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Cilantro, chopped
  • Lime juice
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. Drizzle with lime juice and gently toss to combine.
  3. Season with salt and pepper. Add cherry tomatoes if desired.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This avocado chicken salad is both nutritious and flavorful, making it a perfect midday meal.

The creamy avocado replaces heavy mayonnaise, offering a lighter yet satisfying texture.

It’s delicious on its own, in a wrap, or served over fresh greens.

Curried Chicken Salad

A flavorful and aromatic take on chicken salad, this recipe incorporates curry powder for a warm, exotic twist.

Combined with crisp apples and crunchy almonds, it creates a lunch that’s both interesting and comforting.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
  • Curry powder
  • Granny Smith apple, diced
  • Sliced almonds
  • Raisins or dried cranberries
  • Salt and pepper
  • Lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with curry powder and lemon juice.
  2. Add chicken, apple, almonds, and raisins. Toss until coated.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Chill before serving for best flavor.

This curried chicken salad offers a unique blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

The apples and dried fruit add natural sweetness, balancing the curry’s warmth.

It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to brighten up their lunch with something a little different.

Greek Chicken Salad

This Greek chicken salad is a vibrant and refreshing lunch option inspired by Mediterranean flavors.

Packed with juicy chicken, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and Kalamata olives, it’s a satisfying meal that feels light yet fulfilling.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • Feta cheese, crumbled
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, and feta.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
  3. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

This Greek chicken salad brings bright, fresh flavors that awaken the palate.

It’s ideal for a light lunch that’s still packed with protein and vibrant veggies, perfect on its own or alongside pita bread.

BBQ Chicken Salad

This BBQ chicken salad offers a smoky and sweet flavor profile combined with fresh greens and crunchy veggies.

It’s hearty enough to satisfy but still fresh and easy to prepare for lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • BBQ sauce
  • Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • Corn kernels
  • Black beans, rinsed
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, diced
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
  2. In a bowl, combine lettuce, corn, beans, tomatoes, and onion.
  3. Top with BBQ chicken and shredded cheese.
  4. Drizzle dressing over the salad if desired.

This salad delivers a delicious contrast between smoky BBQ chicken and fresh crunchy vegetables.

It’s perfect for a quick, flavorful lunch that can easily be packed for on-the-go meals.

Asian Chicken Salad

A crunchy and colorful salad with Asian-inspired flavors, this chicken salad features shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing.

It’s vibrant, healthy, and perfect for a refreshing lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Napa cabbage or green cabbage, shredded
  • Carrots, shredded
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Cilantro, chopped
  • Slivered almonds or toasted sesame seeds
  • Soy sauce
  • Rice vinegar
  • Sesame oil
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Fresh ginger, grated

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over salad and toss well.
  4. Top with almonds or sesame seeds before serving.

This Asian chicken salad is crisp, tangy, and packed with flavor.

It’s light but satisfying, making it an excellent choice for a nourishing lunch that keeps you energized through the afternoon.

Waldorf Chicken Salad

This Waldorf chicken salad combines tender chicken with crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet grapes, all tossed in a creamy dressing.

It’s a classic, flavorful lunch that balances textures and tastes beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Apples, diced
  • Seedless grapes, halved
  • Celery, diced
  • Walnuts, chopped
  • Mayonnaise
  • Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth.
  2. Add chicken, apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Chill before serving for best flavor.

This Waldorf chicken salad offers a refreshing and satisfying lunch option, with a perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements.

It’s ideal for meal prepping or enjoying on its own or with fresh bread.

Pesto Chicken Salad

A flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe incorporates fresh basil pesto for a herby, vibrant taste.

It’s creamy without being heavy and perfect for a lunch that feels fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Basil pesto
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with basil pesto.
  2. Add chicken, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Mix well.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

This pesto chicken salad is bursting with fresh herbal flavor and offers a deliciously creamy texture without heaviness.

It’s great for sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens for a light lunch.

Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad

This chicken salad features tart cranberries and crunchy almonds, adding a delightful contrast to tender chicken and creamy dressing.

It’s a festive and flavorful lunch that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Dried cranberries
  • Sliced almonds, toasted
  • Celery, diced
  • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with lemon juice.
  2. Add chicken, cranberries, almonds, and celery. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This cranberry almond chicken salad combines sweet, nutty, and savory flavors for a lunch that’s both comforting and refreshing.

It’s perfect for packing in lunches or serving at casual gatherings.

Thai Chicken Salad

This vibrant Thai chicken salad combines shredded chicken with crunchy veggies and a tangy, spicy dressing.

It’s packed with fresh flavors like lime, cilantro, and chili, making it a perfect light but satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Shredded cabbage or mixed greens
  • Carrots, julienned
  • Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Peanuts, chopped (optional)
  • Lime juice
  • Fish sauce or soy sauce
  • Honey
  • Fresh chili or chili flakes

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
  2. Whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, honey, and chili to make the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over salad and toss well.
  4. Top with chopped peanuts if desired.

This Thai chicken salad is a refreshing burst of bright, spicy, and tangy flavors that awaken the senses.

It’s light, healthy, and perfect for lunch when you want something both flavorful and nutritious.

Chicken Apple Salad

This chicken apple salad mixes savory chicken with crisp apples and a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced and tasty lunch.

It’s crunchy, creamy, and great for meal prepping or quick lunches.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Apples, diced
  • Celery, diced
  • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with lemon juice.
  2. Add chicken, apples, celery, and nuts. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Chill before serving for best taste.

This salad blends sweet, tart, and creamy textures for a satisfying midday meal.

The apples add freshness and crunch, complementing the tender chicken perfectly.

Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This Mediterranean chicken salad features fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese with a zesty lemon-oregano dressing.

It’s a colorful and nutrient-packed option for a healthy, flavorful lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • Kalamata olives, sliced
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, and feta in a bowl.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

This Mediterranean chicken salad is fresh, tangy, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

It’s perfect for a light yet filling lunch that transports you to sunny Mediterranean shores with every bite.

Chicken Caesar Salad

This classic chicken Caesar salad is a satisfying and protein-packed lunch option.

Crisp romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing come together for a timeless favorite.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, sliced
  • Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
  • Croutons
  • Caesar dressing
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing until coated.
  2. Add chicken slices and croutons, then gently toss again.
  3. Top with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
  4. Serve immediately.

This chicken Caesar salad balances creamy dressing with fresh, crunchy greens and hearty chicken.

It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a lunch that’s both filling and flavorful.

Mango Chicken Salad

Sweet mango pairs perfectly with savory chicken in this tropical-inspired salad.

Combined with crisp vegetables and a zesty lime dressing, it’s a refreshing and vibrant lunch choice.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, diced
  • Ripe mango, diced
  • Red bell pepper, diced
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Mixed greens or spinach
  • Lime juice
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, mango, bell pepper, onion, and greens.
  2. Whisk lime juice and olive oil together, then drizzle over the salad.
  3. Toss gently and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This mango chicken salad offers a bright and flavorful lunch option with a perfect balance of sweetness and zest.

It’s ideal for warm days or when you want a light but satisfying meal.

Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

Creamy avocado and tangy ranch dressing combine with chicken and crunchy vegetables for a flavorful and filling salad.

It’s an easy lunch that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Avocado, diced
  • Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Cucumber, sliced
  • Ranch dressing
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber.
  2. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve chilled.

This avocado ranch chicken salad is creamy and fresh, perfect for a quick lunch that satisfies your cravings while keeping things light and nutritious.

Mediterranean Orzo Chicken Salad

This Mediterranean orzo chicken salad combines tender chicken with chewy orzo pasta, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

It’s a refreshing and hearty lunch that’s easy to make ahead.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, diced
  • Cooked orzo pasta
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Kalamata olives, sliced
  • Feta cheese, crumbled
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, orzo, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, and feta.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
  4. Chill before serving for best flavor.

This salad delivers the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with the added satisfaction of pasta, making it a well-rounded and delicious lunch option.

Chicken Cobb Salad

This classic Cobb salad is a protein-packed lunch featuring chicken, crispy bacon, avocado, eggs, and blue cheese over fresh greens.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a filling midday meal.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, diced
  • Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
  • Avocado, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Blue cheese, crumbled
  • Your favorite dressing (ranch, vinaigrette, etc.)

Instructions:

  1. Arrange lettuce on a plate or bowl.
  2. Top with rows of chicken, eggs, avocado, tomatoes, bacon, and blue cheese.
  3. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.

This chicken Cobb salad is satisfying and packed with flavor and texture contrasts.

It’s ideal for lunch when you want something hearty but still fresh and healthy.

Southwest Chicken Salad

This Southwest chicken salad combines smoky grilled chicken with black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.

It’s colorful, flavorful, and perfect for a nutritious lunch that keeps you energized.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, sliced
  • Romaine or mixed greens
  • Black beans, rinsed
  • Corn kernels
  • Avocado, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, diced
  • Lime juice
  • Olive oil
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine greens, black beans, corn, avocado, tomatoes, and onion.
  2. Toss chicken with lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add chicken to the salad and toss everything together.
  4. Serve immediately or chill.

This salad is packed with bold Southwestern flavors and plenty of fresh veggies, making it a perfect choice for a vibrant and filling lunch.

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

This Thai peanut chicken salad is a delicious mix of shredded chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing with a hint of spice.

It’s a flavorful, protein-packed lunch that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Shredded cabbage or mixed greens
  • Carrots, julienned
  • Red bell pepper, sliced
  • Green onions, chopped
  • Cilantro, chopped
  • Peanut butter
  • Soy sauce
  • Lime juice
  • Honey
  • Garlic, minced
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors with crunchy textures.

It’s great for a quick lunch that feels exotic yet easy to prepare.

Harvest Chicken Salad

This harvest chicken salad combines seasonal ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes, apples, and pecans with tender chicken.

It’s a hearty and wholesome lunch packed with textures and autumn-inspired flavors.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Roasted sweet potatoes, cubed
  • Apples, diced
  • Pecans, toasted and chopped
  • Mixed greens
  • Dried cranberries
  • Olive oil
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Dijon mustard
  • Honey
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sweet potatoes, apples, pecans, greens, and cranberries.
  2. Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Toss the salad with the dressing until well coated.
  4. Serve immediately or chill.

This salad is a delicious mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for a nourishing lunch that feels like a celebration of fall.

Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Salad

Combining protein-packed chicken and chickpeas with fresh vegetables and herbs, this Mediterranean salad is vibrant and filling.

The lemony dressing adds brightness, making it a perfect lunch choice.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, diced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley.
  2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Mediterranean chicken salad is full of fresh, wholesome ingredients and has a bright, tangy flavor profile.

It’s great for a healthy and satisfying lunch that can be made ahead.

Buffalo Chicken Salad

This buffalo chicken salad is a spicy and tangy twist on a classic chicken salad.

Tender chicken tossed in buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with crisp lettuce and cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing for a bold, satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Celery, sliced
  • Shredded carrots
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • Crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
  2. In a bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, celery, and carrots.
  3. Top salad with buffalo chicken.
  4. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese if desired.

This salad delivers a perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors, with fresh, crunchy vegetables to lighten the heat.

It’s an ideal lunch for those craving bold flavors with a cool finish.

Chicken and Quinoa Salad

Packed with protein and fiber, this chicken and quinoa salad is nutritious and filling.

The combination of fluffy quinoa, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette makes it an energizing and delicious lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, diced
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Red bell pepper, diced
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and herbs.
  2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is a wholesome lunch option that balances protein, vegetables, and grains.

It’s light yet filling, perfect for keeping energy levels high throughout the day.

Chicken Pesto Salad

This chicken pesto salad blends the fresh herbal flavors of basil pesto with tender chicken and crisp vegetables.

It’s a flavorful, aromatic lunch that’s easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean-inspired goodness.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Mixed greens or baby spinach
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Cucumber, sliced
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • Basil pesto
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, toss chicken, greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
  2. Mix basil pesto with a little olive oil and lemon juice to make a light dressing.
  3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately.

This salad offers a fresh and vibrant lunch option with the rich flavor of pesto complementing crisp vegetables and protein-packed chicken.

It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Chicken Avocado Salad

This chicken avocado salad is creamy, fresh, and packed with healthy fats and protein.

The buttery texture of ripe avocado pairs perfectly with tender chicken and crisp veggies, making it a nutritious and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Ripe avocado, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
  • Lime juice
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, tomatoes, onion, and greens.
  2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.
  3. Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately or chill briefly.

This salad delivers a creamy, fresh flavor profile with a perfect balance of textures.

It’s great for a quick, healthy lunch that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Moroccan Chicken Salad

A flavorful salad inspired by Moroccan spices and ingredients, this dish features tender chicken with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a spiced citrus dressing.

It’s colorful, fragrant, and perfect for a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Roasted carrots and sweet potatoes, diced
  • Cooked chickpeas
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Mixed greens
  • Olive oil
  • Orange juice
  • Ground cumin
  • Paprika
  • Cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, roasted veggies, chickpeas, cilantro, and greens.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss well.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Moroccan chicken salad is rich with warm spices and bright citrus flavors, offering an exciting and nutritious lunch that’s far from ordinary.

Caprese Chicken Salad

This Caprese chicken salad takes the classic Italian flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil and pairs them with juicy chicken for a fresh, light lunch.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze finishes the dish perfectly.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, sliced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh mozzarella balls or slices
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze or reduction
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Arrange chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a plate or in a bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Serve immediately.

This salad is simple yet elegant, combining fresh ingredients for a lunch that’s both satisfying and bursting with classic Italian flavors.

It’s perfect for a quick meal that feels special.

Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

This Asian chicken noodle salad combines tender chicken with crunchy vegetables and noodles, all tossed in a tangy sesame-ginger dressing.

It’s a refreshing and flavorful lunch that’s easy to prepare and satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • Cooked rice noodles or thin spaghetti
  • Shredded cabbage or napa cabbage
  • Julienne carrots
  • Sliced bell peppers
  • Green onions, chopped
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sesame seeds

Dressing:

  • Soy sauce
  • Rice vinegar
  • Sesame oil
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Grated ginger
  • Minced garlic

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, noodles, cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, and cilantro.
  2. Whisk together dressing ingredients until well combined.
  3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

This salad is light yet full of bold Asian flavors, with a satisfying mix of textures.

It’s perfect for a nutritious and delicious lunch that can be made ahead.

Chicken Waldorf Salad Wrap

This chicken Waldorf salad wrap is a portable and tasty lunch option featuring chicken, apples, grapes, and walnuts in a creamy dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Apples, diced
  • Seedless grapes, halved
  • Chopped walnuts
  • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper
  • Large tortillas or wraps

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with lemon juice.
  2. Add chicken, apples, grapes, and walnuts. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Spoon the salad mixture onto tortillas, wrap tightly, and slice in half.

These wraps are creamy, crunchy, and sweet, making them a satisfying lunch that’s easy to take on the go or enjoy at home.

Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Wrap

This Mediterranean chickpea chicken wrap combines flavorful chicken and chickpeas with fresh vegetables and a tangy yogurt dressing, all wrapped up for a convenient and tasty lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • Cooked chickpeas, rinsed
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, diced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Large wraps or pita bread

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  2. Combine chicken, chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley in a large bowl.
  3. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss to coat.
  4. Spoon filling onto wraps or pita bread, roll up, and serve.

This wrap is fresh, protein-packed, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch on the move.

Conclusion

Chicken salad is a versatile and satisfying lunch option that can easily be tailored to your taste and lifestyle. Whether you crave something creamy and comforting or fresh and zesty, these 30+ recipes cover it all. Incorporate fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and vibrant herbs to boost both nutrition and flavor. Perfect for meal prepping or last-minute meals, chicken salad ensures your lunch is never boring, always delicious, and packed with protein to keep you energized.

Ruth J. Pickett

Ruth J. Pickett is the founder of Foodline24.com, a website dedicated to sharing all kinds of recipes for cooks of every level. With a deep love for food and years of kitchen experience, Ruth curates simple, flavorful dishes that inspire everyday cooking. Her mission is to make cooking easy, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone.

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