If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, this Keto Chicken Salad Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, every bite delivers tender shredded chicken mingled with crisp celery and a luscious mayo-based dressing. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for a quick lunch, an easy meal prep option, or a refreshing, low-carb treat any day. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed chicken salad any other way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small white bowls with different ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, a large white bowl is filled with shredded white cooked chicken, its texture soft and flaky. Above the chicken bowl, to the left, there is a small white bowl with bright green chopped celery pieces, while to the right, another white bowl holds smooth, creamy white mayonnaise. Below the mayo, a white bowl contains fresh green parsley leaves with a curly texture. Next to it on the right, a red measuring cup is filled with sliced green onions, their rings clearly visible. Below the chicken bowl, on the left side, a lemon half shows its bright yellow flesh and seeds. To the right of the lemon, a small white dish holds a small pile of yellow mustard, smooth and thick. Lastly, another small white dish contains a mix of white, black, and yellow spices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s great about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet they work beautifully together to create amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role — from the creamy mayonnaise binding everything, to the crunch from fresh celery, and that subtle zest of Dijon mustard bringing it all to life.

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience and maximum tenderness.
½ cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base, making every bite smooth and rich.
1 stalk celery, finely chopped: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess.
2 tbsp diced red onion: Brings a mild sharpness and lovely color contrast.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Infuses a subtle tangy depth to the dressing.
½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional): Offers brightness and a hint of herbal freshness.

How to Make Keto Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

The magic begins by whisking together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creates a creamy, flavorful dressing that coats every ingredient perfectly and ensures each bite is rich and satisfying.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Next, add your shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, and diced red onion right into the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated in that luscious dressing. The crispness of the veggies paired with tender chicken makes every spoonful a delight.

Step 3: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to firm up. This step might feel tempting to skip, but it truly makes a noticeable difference.

How to Serve Keto Chicken Salad Recipe

The dish is a creamy salad served in a round white bowl, filled with about three main layers: shredded chicken coated with a thick white creamy sauce, small chunks of pale green celery mixed evenly, and tiny pieces of red onion scattered throughout adding a slight purple color. The surface is sprinkled with black pepper and small green herbs, giving texture and color contrast. The bowl sits on a wooden board with a white marbled surface partially visible underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few extra dashes of black pepper on top provides a visually appealing finish and a little herbal burst. For a bit of crunch, try tossing in some toasted pecans or sliced almonds.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with simple, keto-friendly sides like a crisp green salad, avocado slices, or even some roasted vegetables. These complement the creamy texture and keep your meal balanced and energizing.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond serving it in a bowl, try spooning the chicken salad into crisp lettuce leaves for refreshing wraps or pile it over a bed of mixed greens for a colorful lunch. You can even stuff it inside ripe avocado halves to add healthy fats and gourmet flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad keeps well for up to three days, and the flavors only get better as they sit.

Freezing

This particular salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the mayo and celery can separate or become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you want to warm it, serve it separately with warm low-carb bread or crackers on the side.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that makes assembling this Keto Chicken Salad Recipe even faster without sacrificing flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. The chicken salad holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it convenient for quick lunches or snacks all week long.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?

You can substitute Greek yogurt to lighten the dish, but keep in mind it will alter the texture and flavor slightly, offering a tangier and less creamy result.

What are some low-carb additions I can add?

Chopped avocado, toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts, and sliced cucumber all make great low-carb add-ins that boost texture and nutrition.

How can I make this salad more flavorful?

Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a dash of smoked paprika, or some chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives to elevate the flavor complexity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish, this Keto Chicken Salad Recipe is absolutely worth making. It’s packed with flavor, effortless to throw together, and versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients or sides you have on hand. Give it a try and let it become a beloved staple in your keto meal rotation.