Looking for a healthy and satisfying meal that fits your low-carb lifestyle? This keto chicken salad recipe is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch, meal prep, or even a light dinner. Whether you’re fully committed to keto or just exploring low-carb eating, this chicken salad is a must-try!
Why This Keto Chicken Salad Stands Out
What makes this recipe a winner? It’s:
- Quick and easy — ready in under 20 minutes
- Keto-approved — only 2-3g net carbs per serving
- Customizable — perfect for adding your favorite low-carb mix-ins
- Meal-prep friendly — keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days
Let’s jump into the recipe and get your keto meal plan one step closer to delicious!
🥗 Keto Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use avocado oil-based mayo for extra health points)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds a nice tang)
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped dill or parsley for freshness
- Optional add-ins: chopped pickles, sliced almonds, boiled eggs, or bacon bits
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with herbs or optional add-ins.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Scoop into butter lettuce cups for a refreshing keto wrap
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil
- Enjoy it straight from the bowl—it’s that good!
🧠 Tips for the Best Keto Chicken Salad
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time.
- Swap regular mayo for homemade or clean-label brands to avoid hidden sugars.
- Want some crunch? Add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds.
- Like it spicy? Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is chicken salad good for a keto diet?
Yes! Traditional chicken salad made with low-carb ingredients like chicken, mayo, celery, and herbs is perfect for a ketogenic lifestyle.
How many carbs are in keto chicken salad?
This recipe has approximately 2-3g net carbs per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used (especially mayo and mustard brands).
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. This chicken salad contains no dairy unless you add cheese. Just be sure your mayo is also dairy-free.
Can I freeze keto chicken salad?
It’s not recommended. The texture of mayo changes when frozen and thawed, resulting in a watery and separated consistency.
How long does keto chicken salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re avoiding mayo, try mashed avocado or full-fat Greek yogurt (though the latter adds some carbs).
✅ Conclusion
This keto chicken salad recipe is everything you want in a low-carb meal: it’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or searching for a quick no-cook dinner, this dish delivers on both taste and nutrition.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with your own add-ins to make it uniquely yours. Keto doesn’t have to be boring—with meals like this, it’s downright delicious!
