I love a good homemade chicken salad recipe. From the different combinations, ease of making it, and being protein-packed, it’s a go-to for an easy lunch around our house. What I don’t like is a chicken salad drenched in mayo. I’m always looking for different things to swap it out and that’s where this hummus chicken salad was born.
Besides chicken, we have some fresh veggies for some crunch and a little sweetness. It’s all tossed with a dressing of hummus, lemon zest, and lemon juice for a nice brightness and zip while giving you that hummus flavor we all love.
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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 hummus chicken salad
- made in one bowl and ready in 15 minutes!
- packed with protein and veggies
- 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!
What is hummus?
Hummus originated in the Middle East and consists of chickpeas, tahini (ground-up sesame seeds), olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices all blended into a smooth and creamy consistency. It is usually served with pita bread and veggies but can be used as a spread on so many things.
Can you use hummus instead of mayonnaise?
Hummus is a great substitute for mayo in chicken salad, sandwiches, and more. Using hummus will add more flavor, reduce the number of calories and fat, and also add a little more protein and fiber.
Ingredients
- shredded chicken
- red bell pepper
- cucumber
- carrots
- red onion
- fresh dill
- hummus – any flavor will work but I like the original for this.
- lemon zest
- lemon juice
- water
- salt and pepper
How to make hummus chicken salad
- Make the hummus dressing. Add hummus, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to a medium bowl. Mix well to combine.
- Make chicken salad. To a large bowl, add shredded chicken, peppers, cucumber, carrots, red onion, dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour dressing overtop and stir well to combine. Adjust according to taste. If you have time, let it chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to come together.
- Enjoy! Serve in a sandwich, salad, or however you like!
What to serve with chicken salad
- bread, toast, rice cakes, wraps, or lettuce wraps – with lettuce, tomato, and whatever favorite sandwich additions you like!
- crackers or chips
- fruit – apple, grapes, cherries, or berries
Storage
- refrigerator – store the leftover chicken mixture in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- freeze – I would not recommend freezing this recipe due to the hummus and raw veggies as the texture could change.
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.
- vegetables – feel free to adjust the veggies according to your preference. You can also add some more if you like. Cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini, or celery are all good options.
- dill – parsley will work instead.
- hummus – any flavor of hummus will work. You can use store-bought or homemade hummus.
Here are some things you can add:
- spices – add some garlic powder, cumin, or red pepper flakes.
- chickpeas – for a little more texture.
More healthy chicken salad recipes
- avocado chicken salad
- healthy chicken salad with almonds and grapes
- cranberry pecan 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!
Hummus Chicken Salad
ingredients
- 4 cups shredded chicken (1 pound)
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper (120 grams)
- 1 cup diced cucumber (130 grams)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (75 grams)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (60 grams)
- 1/4 packed cup dill, roughly chopped
- 1 8-ounce container hummus (I used the original flavor)
- zest of one lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- salt and pepper, to taste
instructions
- Make the hummus dressing. Add hummus, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to a medium bowl. Mix well to combine.
- Make chicken salad. To a large bowl, add shredded chicken, peppers, cucumber, carrots, red onion, dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour dressing overtop and stir well to combine. Adjust according to taste. If you have time, let it chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to come together.
- Enjoy! Serve in a sandwich, salad, or however you like!
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Amazingggg and super easy, perfect for lunches
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks, Holly!
Easy to make and great for meal prep.
Thanks, Mikey!
This was delicious. I used a rotisserie chicken to make this a little easier and subbed cilantro for dill. I highly recommend this recipe and so many more recipes of Kelly’s!
So glad you enjoyed it, Beccah! Thanks for trying it!
Super yum! I added a splash of pickle juice instead of water & it turned out great! Thank you!
Oh yum, that sounds delicious! Thanks for trying it, Liz!
Love it
Thank you, Dan!
Absolutely delicious! I would have never thought to make chicken salad with hummus!! You will absolutely love all the freshness this recipe has to offer!!
So glad to hear you enjoyed it, Jessica! Thanks for trying it!!