➤ Low-carb version for diet followers.
Introduction
If you are following a keto diet, you know how important it is to find meals that keep your carbohydrate intake low while still being satisfying and tasty. Eating the same things over and over can get boring quickly. That is why this keto friendly chicken salad recipe is such a great addition to your meal plan. It is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients that make it perfect for anyone trying to stay in ketosis without sacrificing flavor. Chicken salad is a classic dish loved by many, but this version is specially adapted for keto lovers who want to avoid excess carbs. It is easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. You can enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. The creamy texture combined with the crunch of celery and a hint of fresh lemon makes it refreshing and comforting at the same time. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can tweak it based on what you have in your kitchen or what flavors you prefer. Whether you are new to the keto lifestyle or have been following it for some time, this chicken salad will fit right into your daily routine and keep your taste buds happy.
Ingredients Needed
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a delicious keto chicken salad. This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you can find easily at any grocery store. The star of the dish is cooked chicken breast, which is lean and packed with protein. Full fat mayonnaise provides the creamy texture and the essential fats needed for keto. Celery adds a nice crunch without any significant carbs. For a bit of flavor depth, a little red onion and fresh parsley are included, but they are completely optional depending on your taste. Dijon mustard gives a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the mayonnaise. Of course, salt and pepper are added to season the salad perfectly. The ingredients are easy to measure and come together quickly so you can enjoy a fresh, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Net Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups shredded | 330 | 0 | 62 | 7 |
| Full fat mayonnaise | ½ cup | 720 | 0 | 0 | 80 |
| Celery (chopped) | ½ cup | 8 | 1 | 0.3 | 0.1 |
| Red onion (minced, optional) | 2 tablespoons | 8 | 1.5 | 0.2 | 0 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon | 15 | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.9 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tablespoon | 1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 | 1 | 0.1 | 0 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
This recipe yields about four servings. Each serving contains approximately 272 calories, 1.5 grams of net carbs, 15.6 grams of protein, and 22 grams of healthy fats. This balance makes it perfect for anyone on a ketogenic diet looking for a filling and nutritious meal.
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing this keto friendly chicken salad is straightforward and does not require advanced cooking skills. First, you need cooked chicken breast. You can use leftovers from a roasted chicken or cook fresh chicken by poaching or baking it until it is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Let the chicken cool down, then shred it with two forks. This shredded chicken will be the base of your salad.
Next, prepare the creamy dressing. In a large bowl, mix the full fat mayonnaise with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk these together until they form a smooth and creamy dressing. This dressing brings all the flavors together and adds the richness that makes this chicken salad special.
After that, add the chopped celery and red onion if you are using it. Celery gives the salad a nice crunch that contrasts well with the softness of the chicken. The red onion adds a slight sharpness that balances the creaminess. Then, stir in the fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Finally, add the shredded chicken to the bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and all the ingredients are well combined. If you have time, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad taste even better.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this keto friendly chicken salad recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you want to add more healthy fats, you can toss in diced avocado right before serving. Avocado is creamy and rich, which complements the chicken salad beautifully. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or add a few drops of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also swap out half of the mayonnaise for full fat Greek yogurt if you prefer a tangier flavor and want to increase the protein content. For a little extra crunch, chopped nuts like pecans or almonds make a great topping. Just keep in mind that nuts do contain some carbs, so use them in moderation. Experiment with fresh herbs too. Dill, chives, or tarragon can add new flavor notes and keep the salad exciting. Finally, if you prefer a little sweetness, a tiny amount of chopped green apple or sliced grapes could be added but remember that this will increase the carb count.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this keto friendly chicken salad contains approximately 272 calories. The net carbohydrate content is very low at just 1.5 grams, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a strict ketogenic diet. The protein content is about 15.6 grams per serving, which helps keep you full and supports muscle maintenance. The fat content is relatively high at 22 grams, mostly coming from the full fat mayonnaise and chicken, which are both great sources of healthy fats needed on keto. This balance of macronutrients keeps you feeling satisfied without knocking you out of ketosis. The fiber content is low but present, mainly from the celery and parsley. Overall, this dish supports your ketogenic lifestyle by providing the essential nutrients your body needs while keeping carbs in check.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad can be enjoyed in many ways depending on your mood and dietary preferences. For a light and fresh option, try serving it in large leaves of romaine or butter lettuce. These wraps are easy to eat on the go and add an extra crunch without any carbs. Another delicious way to enjoy this salad is by stuffing it inside avocado halves. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the chicken salad and adds more healthy fats to your meal. If you like a bit of crunch, serve the chicken salad alongside some keto friendly crackers or cloud bread. This turns it into a more substantial meal or snack. For a more traditional approach, you can place the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach leaves. This adds volume and more nutrients to your meal while keeping it low carb. Finally, you can also serve the salad cold as part of a keto picnic or pack it for a convenient work lunch.
Conclusion
This keto friendly chicken salad recipe is a simple and delicious way to stay on track with your low carb goals without sacrificing taste. It uses fresh, wholesome ingredients and comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. The creamy dressing, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Best of all, it is highly customizable to suit your personal tastes or what you have available in your kitchen. Whether you eat it in lettuce wraps, stuffed in avocados, or over a bed of greens, this chicken salad fits easily into any keto lifestyle. By making this recipe part of your regular meal rotation, you can enjoy a variety of flavors while sticking to your dietary plan. This dish is proof that eating keto does not have to be boring or difficult. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make a meal that nourishes your body and delights your palate every time.