A Keto Homemade Chicken Salad is the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal that can be enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or a light dinner. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it an excellent option for those following a ketogenic diet. The base of the salad is typically made with shredded or cubed chicken, which is a great source of protein, and then combined with a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. The combination of healthy fats from the mayo and protein from the chicken keeps you full and energized, making it an ideal choice for a keto-friendly meal.
What makes this chicken salad so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The addition of crunchy vegetables like celery and pickles brings freshness and crunch to the dish, while fresh herbs like parsley enhance the overall flavor profile. For those who enjoy a bit of tang, the pickles and mustard add a delightful zing, which complements the rich, creamy dressing. You can customize the salad by adding other keto-friendly ingredients such as diced avocado, crispy bacon, or hard-boiled eggs to boost both the flavor and nutritional content. The result is a filling, nutrient-dense salad that’s satisfying enough to be a main meal.
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This keto chicken salad is also extremely easy to prepare, making it perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner. You can make it in less than 20 minutes, especially if you use leftover or rotisserie chicken as a shortcut. Once assembled, it holds well in the fridge for a couple of days, so you can make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether you enjoy it on a bed of leafy greens, in lettuce wraps, or with keto crackers, this chicken salad is a versatile meal that can be tailored to fit your needs and preferences.
With only 2g of net carbs per serving, this keto chicken salad is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. It provides a good amount of protein to keep you full and energized, while the healthy fats ensure you stay satisfied for hours. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a snack, or a meal prep option, this salad is an excellent choice. It’s a perfect example of how keto meals can be easy, tasty, and packed with all the right nutrients.
Keto Homemade Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed) – use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based or homemade)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped celery (for crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional, for flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (dill or relish, to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for freshness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken by boiling, grilling, or roasting it. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience.
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- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
- Add the veggies and chicken: To the bowl, add the chopped celery, red onion (if using), pickles, and fresh parsley. Then, add the shredded chicken and mix everything together until the chicken is fully coated with the creamy dressing.
- Taste and adjust: Taste your chicken salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for extra tang if you prefer.
- Serve: You can serve your keto chicken salad immediately, or refrigerate it for an hour or two for the flavors to meld together. Serve it on a bed of leafy greens, in lettuce wraps, or on a keto-friendly bread or crackers.
Nutrition Information (per serving – makes about 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated fat: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
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- Net Carbs: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg (can vary depending on the chicken and added ingredients)
Why This Chicken Salad Works for Keto:
- Low-Carb Ingredients: By using chicken, healthy fats like mayonnaise (from avocado oil or olive oil), and low-carb vegetables like celery and pickles, this chicken salad fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet, where you want to minimize carbs and prioritize fats and proteins.
- Healthy Fats: The mayonnaise adds healthy fats to keep you feeling satisfied while boosting your energy on a keto diet. If you’re looking for an even healthier version, you can make your own mayo with avocado oil or olive oil for an extra dose of heart-healthy fats.
- Customizable: You can add other keto-friendly ingredients like chopped avocado, bacon bits, or hard-boiled eggs for added protein and flavor. You can also adjust the level of acidity with more lemon juice or vinegar, depending on your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your chicken salad on a bed of leafy greens, such as spinach, arugula, or mixed greens, for a light and fresh meal.
- Use large lettuce leaves (like Romaine or Butter Lettuce) to make wraps for a low-carb sandwich option.
- For added texture, try it on a keto-friendly cracker or fathead pizza crust for a snack or lunch.
- If you prefer a heartier meal, serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a small portion of cauliflower rice.
Tips for a Perfect Keto Chicken Salad:
- Flavor Variations: If you like a bit of heat, you can add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Crunchy Add-ins: Add chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds for an extra crunchy texture.
- Make Ahead: This chicken salad holds up well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
