➤ Use of leftover roasted or grilled chicken.
Introduction
Food waste is a growing problem around the world and most of us are guilty of tossing out leftovers more often than we should. But what if those leftovers could be transformed into something even more delicious the next day? That is where this leftover chicken salad recipe comes in. It is not just a smart solution to reduce food waste but also a tasty, healthy, and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who has some extra roasted or grilled chicken in the fridge. Maybe it was last night’s dinner or something you picked up at the grocery store. Instead of letting it go to waste, you can repurpose it into a fresh and flavorful salad in under 15 minutes.
The beauty of this chicken salad is its versatility. It works as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a party appetizer. You can keep it classic with just a few ingredients or jazz it up with fruits, nuts, and herbs. You are in full control of how simple or creative you want it to be. Whether you are following a low carb lifestyle or just trying to eat more mindfully, this recipe is one you can keep in your back pocket and enjoy all year long.
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients, the step-by-step process, and how to make this salad your own. Plus, we will cover serving ideas, nutrition tips, and more so you can get the most out of every bite.
Ingredients Needed
To make the best leftover chicken salad, you only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. This makes it super convenient, especially when you want to whip up something quickly without making a trip to the store.
You can customize it with what you already have in your fridge. Here’s a look at the basic ingredients along with their calorie count so you can keep track of your nutritional intake.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count per Serving
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 2 cups | 330 |
| Greek yogurt or mayonnaise | 1/3 cup | 100 (yogurt) / 330 (mayo) |
| Celery, chopped | 1 stalk | 10 |
| Red onion, finely chopped | 1/4 cup | 15 |
| Apple, diced (optional) | 1 small | 80 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
| Fresh herbs like parsley | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Chopped nuts or seeds | 2 tablespoons | 100 |
This recipe serves two large portions or four small portions. The calorie count will vary slightly depending on whether you choose Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, as well as the add-ins you decide to include.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this chicken salad is very straightforward and does not require any special equipment or cooking skills. You just need a bowl, a spoon, and your leftover chicken.
Start by shredding or chopping your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Remove any bones or skin if they are still attached. The chicken should be cold or at room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until smooth and creamy.
Toss in the chopped celery, red onion, and diced apple if you are using it. These ingredients add crunch, sweetness, and a refreshing bite to the salad.
Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and gently fold it into the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
Mix in the chopped herbs and sprinkle the nuts or seeds over the top. These ingredients add flavor, texture, and a boost of nutrients.
Give it a quick taste. Add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed. If the salad feels too thick, you can add a teaspoon of water or more yogurt to thin it out slightly.
You can serve it right away or cover and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Chilling the salad helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few ideas to personalize your chicken salad based on your taste and dietary needs:
Instead of Greek yogurt or mayo, use mashed avocado or a tahini-based dressing for a dairy-free option.
Chopped grapes, cranberries, or dried apricots add a lovely sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken.
Add sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even chopped cucumbers for extra texture.
Skip the apple and onions to keep it more keto-friendly. Serve it over leafy greens instead of bread or crackers.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeños for heat.
Toss in cooked quinoa, couscous, or chickpeas to make the salad more filling and protein-packed.
Nutritional Information per Serving (approx.)
Here is an estimate of the nutrition per large serving of chicken salad:
- Calories: 550 (with yogurt), 700 (with mayo)
- Protein: 35 grams
- Fat: 25 to 40 grams depending on dressing
- Carbohydrates: 20 to 25 grams
- Sugar: 6 to 8 grams
- Fiber: 3 to 4 grams
- Sodium: 400 to 500 milligrams
This salad is high in protein and healthy fats while being moderate in carbs. If you choose yogurt over mayonnaise, it also adds probiotics and reduces the fat content.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many ways to enjoy leftover chicken salad. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:
Spoon the salad between slices of whole grain bread or a buttery croissant for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves to make a low carb wrap.
Scoop out a ripe avocado and fill the halves with chicken salad for a creative and filling snack.
Serve it as a dip with whole grain crackers or spread on sourdough toast for an easy open-faced meal.
Add it on top of cooked quinoa, farro, or a bed of greens and veggies to make a nourishing grain bowl.
Pack it into jars or containers for a great on-the-go lunch for work or outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
This leftover chicken salad recipe is more than just a delicious way to clean out your fridge. It is a small but impactful way to reduce food waste and make your meals more sustainable. You do not need to be a professional chef to make something great from what you already have at home.
With just a few basic ingredients and a little creativity, you can turn last night’s chicken into a whole new meal that is nutritious, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, wrap, or salad bowl, you are sure to love how easy and satisfying this recipe is.
Next time you have leftover chicken, skip the trash and treat yourself to something fresh. This salad proves that sustainability and flavor can go hand in hand.