This creamy keto chicken salad is a tasty and quick dish that’s perfect for lunch! Made with chicken, mayonnaise, and crunchy veggies, it’s both filling and low in carbs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s already cooked and packed with flavor! If you don’t have it, boiled chicken works too. You can even use canned chicken in a pinch.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise gives the salad its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use avocado oil mayo. You could also make your own mayo if you want to control the ingredients!
Celery: This adds a great crunch! If you don’t have celery, diced bell peppers or cucumbers can work well for a similar texture.
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, you can substitute green onions or chives. If you don’t enjoy onion at all, just leave it out!
Dill: Fresh dill is wonderful, but dried dill works in a pinch. You could also use Italian seasoning for a different twist if you’re not a fan of dill.
How Can I Get the Right Consistency for the Dressing?
The dressing is key to this salad! Start by ensuring that your mayonnaise is at room temperature; this makes it easier to mix. When whisking, aim for a smooth and creamy blend:
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise with Dijon mustard and lemon juice.
- Adding fresh dill will enhance the creaminess and flavor—don’t skimp on this!
- Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding a touch more mustard or lemon for zing if you like.
If it feels too thick, a dash of water or extra lemon juice can help thin it out to your desired consistency!
Easy Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full fat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or black pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes! Just a little time to mix the ingredients and about 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors meld together. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Veggies:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and finely chopped red onion. This combination will give your salad a nice crunch and flavor boost!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Keep whisking until everything is blended into a smooth and creamy dressing. This is where all the flavor comes together!
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture. Now, gently stir everything together until the chicken is well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season and Serve:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to adjust based on your preferences! Once seasoned, transfer the salad to a serving bowl. If you like, sprinkle some smoked paprika or cracked black pepper on top for a little extra flair.
5. Chill and Enjoy:
For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve your creamy keto chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in keto-friendly wraps, or just enjoy it straight from the bowl!
This salad is creamy, flavorful, and will keep you satisfied on your keto journey. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It will give your salad a similar creaminess while adding a nice tang. You can mix it with a bit of olive oil for extra richness if you like!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken up a bit in the fridge!
What Are Some Keto-Friendly Serving Suggestions?
This salad is delicious on its own, but for serving options, try it in lettuce wraps, or over a bed of mixed greens. You could even use it as a filling for avocado halves for a delightful low-carb meal!
