I rarely tire of chicken salad for an easy and tasty protein source. It’s easy to make, the combination possibilities are endless, and it’s versatile to use! This chipotle chicken salad was inspired by my chicken salad melt as it’s such a delicious combination.
It has some crunch and freshness from the veggies, a little smokiness from the chipotle mayo, a little zip from the lime juice, and some sweetness from the honey to balance it all out. Plus, it’s lightly dressed with mayo (although you can add more if you like) and some lime juice to keep it super light and fresh.
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Prep it at the beginning of the week for an easy protein-packed and gluten-free option to have on hand for busy days!
Why we love this chipotle chicken salad recipe
- made in one bowl and ready in 15 minutes!
- packed with protein
- versatile – use it on salads, in sandwiches, or just as a quick protein option.
- great for meal prep – it’s great to make at the beginning of the week to have on hand for an easy meal. The flavors get better the next day!
Is chicken salad healthy?
Chicken salad can be a healthy addition to any diet. Chicken is packed with lean protein which is going to help fill you up and keep you full. It also usually has some veggies and fruit for micronutrients and fiber.
Store-bought chicken salad can be loaded with a lot of fat due to the amount of mayonnaise used, which can add calories easily. This version is lightly dressed with a touch of mayonnaise to add healthy fats to fill you up, but not overpower the recipe.
When making it at home, you have full control over your ingredients.
Ingredients
- shredded chicken
- red bell pepper
- red onion
- chipotle mayo – I like using homemade, but store-bought will also work.
- lime juice
- honey – for a touch of sweetness to balance out the chipotle.
- fresh cilantro
- salt and pepper
How to make chipotle chicken salad
- Make the chicken salad. Add all ingredients to a large bowl. Stir well to combine. Adjust according to taste. Let it chill for a few hours if you have time to allow the flavors to come together.
- Enjoy! Serve in a sandwich, salad, or however you like!
What to serve with chicken salad
- in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or wrapped in a tortilla
- salad – toss it with mixed greens and veggies for an easy meal or meal prep.
- with crackers or tortilla chips
- in a power bowl – add some greens, a grain, and avocado for an easy bowl meal.
- chicken salad melts – on top of a piece of toast, and then melt a little cheese on top.
- as is – honestly, I love this as is with some veggies and carbs for a complete meal on days we are super busy.
How long does chicken salad last?
Chicken salad will last 4-5 days in the fridge in an airtight container. As it sits, some of the veggies will lose their crunch. Make sure to give it a good mix before serving after it sits in the fridge as the juices settle to the bottom.
Can you freeze chicken salad?
While you can freeze chicken salad, the texture can change in some of the ingredients. I wouldn’t recommend freezing this recipe due to the mayo and fresh veggies used.
Substitutions and additions
- shredded chicken – I like boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but chicken thighs (skin on or off) will also work the same. You can also use a rotisserie chicken from the store for convenience.
- red bell pepper – any color bell pepper will work.
- red onion – green onion will work instead.
- chipotle mayo – I like using homemade, but store-bought will also work. You can also use plain greek yogurt to add a little more protein and cut down on fat. You will need to mix in chipotle paste if doing so.
- lime juice – lemon juice will also work.
- honey – maple syrup will work instead. Leave out if you don’t want any sweetener.
- fresh cilantro – parsley will work instead.
Here are some additions you can add:
- diced tomato
- celery – for a classic chicken salad addition.
- diced avocado – for more creaminess!
- spices – to pump up the flavor! Try garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika.
More healthy chicken salad recipes
- hummus chicken salad
- cranberry pecan chicken salad
- healthy chicken salad with grapes and almonds
- avocado chicken salad
- buffalo ranch chicken salad
If you love quick and easy meals and want to learn how to build a balanced plate, check out our FREE How to Build a Balanced Plate Guide!
Chipotle Chicken Salad
ingredients
- 4 packed cups shredded chicken (1 pound)
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper (140 grams)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (60 grams)
- 1/3 cup chipotle mayo
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- salt and pepper, to taste
instructions
- Make the chicken salad. Add all ingredients to a large bowl. Stir well to combine. Adjust according to taste. Let it chill for a few hours if you have time to allow the flavors to come together.
- Enjoy! Serve in a sandwich, salad, or however you like!
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Great chicken salad. The combos of the mayo and lime work well together, along with the honey and cilantro. Well done!!
They really do work so well! Glad you enjoyed it, Nancy!