This creamy keto chicken salad is super easy to whip up and packed with flavors! It’s made with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a rich dressing that keeps it low on carbs.
Honestly, I love how it’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, you can enjoy it on its own or in lettuce wraps. Talk about a win-win! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or cooked chicken breasts. Shredding it adds great texture. Leftover chicken works too! Just ensure it’s not heavily seasoned for a balanced flavor.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo keeps it creamy and keto-friendly. If you prefer lighter options, you can choose avocado mayo, which is also healthy and delicious!
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a similar texture.
Celery and Red Onion: Both add crunch and freshness! If you’re not a fan of red onion, green onions or chives are great substitutes.
Dill: Fresh dill is the best! But if you can’t find it, dried dill works in a pinch. You could also swap it for fresh parsley for a different flavor.
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
Creating the dressing is the key to this salad’s flavor. Start by mixing your mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings in a bowl. To make it smooth:
- Use a whisk to combine all dressing ingredients thoroughly.
- Add lemon juice and seasoning gradually – you can taste as you go!
- For extra tanginess, feel free to add a few drops of hot sauce or a splash of vinegar.
This simple process ensures a creamy, flavorful dressing that coats all your chicken and veggies nicely!
Easy Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for keto)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Altogether, you can have a delicious and satisfying keto chicken salad ready in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and dill. Mix everything well with a whisk until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
2. Add Chicken and Veggies:
Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, and red onion into the bowl with the dressing. Use a spatula to gently fold the chicken and veggies into the dressing, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
3. Taste and Adjust:
Give your chicken salad a taste! Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you feel it needs a little extra zing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it on its own, over a bed of fresh greens, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb meal!
Enjoy your rich and satisfying keto-friendly chicken salad! 🥗
FAQ
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just ensure it is properly shredded or chopped before mixing it in with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or avocado for a different flavor profile and added creaminess. Just be sure to choose full-fat versions to keep it keto-friendly!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This keto chicken salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its taste and quality!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to include other low-carb veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for some added crunch. You can also mix in nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra texture boost!
