10 Quick and Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes for Lunch On-the-Go

Chicken salad is a classic lunch option that’s not just delicious but also versatile and healthy. Perfect for those busy days when you’re on the move, these recipes are quick to whip up, packed with nutrition, and can easily fit into your lunchbox. Get ready to enjoy fresh flavors and satisfying meals that keep you energized throughout the day!

Refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Salad For A Wholesome Lunch

This Mediterranean chicken salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick lunch. The vibrant colors of the salad make it visually appealing and the flavors are simply refreshing. You’ll find juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory olives, all topped with grilled chicken for protein.

The combination of feta cheese and fresh herbs adds a nice touch, making every bite satisfying. This salad is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal on the go.

To prepare this salad, start by grilling your chicken breast until it’s golden brown and cooked through. While the chicken cools, chop up your veggies and mix them in a bowl. Add the olives and feta cheese for that Mediterranean flair. Once the chicken is ready, slice it and place it on top of the salad.

Drizzle a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice over the top for a burst of flavor. This salad is great for meal prep, too. Just store the ingredients separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup black olives
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked and golden brown. Let them cool before slicing.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad To Spice Up Your Meal Prep

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and filling option for lunch on-the-go. Packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and fresh veggies, it’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The creamy guacamole and zesty lime add a refreshing twist that makes every bite enjoyable.

To make this salad, start with a base of leafy greens. Add sliced grilled chicken for protein, then pile on the black beans and corn for a hearty touch. Cherry tomatoes and diced bell peppers bring in a burst of color and crunch. Top it all off with a generous scoop of guacamole and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing.

This salad is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for meal prep, as you can store it in the fridge and grab it whenever you need a quick lunch. Pair it with some tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch!

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup grilled chicken, sliced
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 avocado, mashed (for guacamole)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base.
2. Add the Chicken: Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the greens.
3. Layer the Veggies: Add black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers over the chicken.
4. Top with Guacamole: Spoon the mashed avocado over the salad, and drizzle with lime juice.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for later. Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy side!

Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad: A Luxurious Lunch Option

This creamy avocado chicken salad is a delightful choice for lunch on the go. The image showcases a beautifully presented dish, featuring shredded chicken mixed with creamy avocado, topped with fresh green apple cubes and cilantro. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only appetizing but also nutritious.

To make this salad, you’ll need cooked chicken, ripe avocados, diced apples, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying, perfect for a busy day.

Here’s how to whip up this delicious salad:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 green apple, diced
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the avocado and mix in the Greek yogurt and lime juice until smooth.
2. Add the shredded chicken, diced apple, cilantro, and green onions to the bowl.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then stir everything together until well combined.
4. Serve the salad in avocado halves or on a bed of greens for a lovely presentation.
5. Enjoy your creamy avocado chicken salad as a quick lunch option!

Classic Caesar Chicken Salad: A Timeless Favorite

The Classic Caesar Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish features tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing. The addition of parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the taste, making it a satisfying option for lunch on-the-go.

This salad is not just tasty; it’s also quick to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy days. Whether you’re at home or packing it for work, this salad is sure to please.

Here’s how to make your own Classic Caesar Chicken Salad:

Ingredients

• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup croutons
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lettuce: Rinse and chop the romaine lettuce. Place it in a large bowl.
2. Add Chicken: Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the lettuce.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the chicken and lettuce. Toss gently to combine.
4. Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and croutons on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges for a fresh touch. Enjoy your salad right away or pack it for later!

Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad: A Flavorful Fusion

This Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The vibrant colors of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cabbage, and green onions create an inviting dish. Topped with tender pieces of chicken and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds.

The salad is perfect for lunch on-the-go. It’s light yet filling, making it a great choice for busy days. The combination of crunchy veggies and savory chicken is sure to keep you satisfied. Plus, the Asian-inspired dressing adds a zesty kick that ties everything together.

Making this salad is simple and quick. You can prep the ingredients in advance, making it easy to assemble when you’re ready to eat. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about, this salad is a fantastic option.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger until well combined.
2. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, red cabbage, bell peppers, carrots, green onions, and cooked chicken.
3. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve: Top with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your crunchy salad right away or pack it for lunch!

Tropical Pineapple Chicken Salad For A Taste Of The Islands

This Tropical Pineapple Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on your typical lunch. Imagine tender chicken mixed with juicy pineapple, crunchy bell peppers, and fresh herbs. It's served in a coconut shell, giving it that island vibe. The bright colors and tropical flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the palate.

The combination of sweet and savory is perfect for those busy days when you need something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a great option for lunch on-the-go.

Let’s get into the details of how to whip up this delightful salad!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 coconut shell or bowl for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss everything together until well mixed.
4. Serve in a coconut shell or bowl for a fun presentation.
5. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Salad chilled or at room temperature!

Nutty Chicken Salad With Walnuts For Added Crunch

This nutty chicken salad is a delightful option for lunch on-the-go. It combines tender chicken pieces with crunchy walnuts, fresh celery, and a hint of sweetness from grapes. The vibrant colors and textures make it not just tasty but visually appealing too. Perfect for meal prep, this salad can be enjoyed in a wrap, on a bed of greens, or simply on its own.

To make this salad, start by cooking your chicken. You can grill, bake, or poach it, depending on your preference. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Next, chop fresh celery and grapes, and toss them in a bowl with the chicken. The walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while fresh herbs like cilantro brighten the dish.

For the dressing, a simple mix of Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper works wonders. This keeps the salad creamy without being too heavy. Mix everything together and let it chill in the fridge for a bit to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is not only nutritious but also quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, chopped walnuts, and cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Serve chilled, either on its own or in a wrap.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad For A Kick Of Flavor

Looking for a lunch option that packs a punch? This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad is just what you need! It combines tender shredded chicken with a zesty buffalo sauce, making it a perfect choice for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

The salad features a colorful mix of fresh greens, crunchy celery, and creamy blue cheese, all drizzled with extra buffalo sauce for that added kick. It’s not just tasty, but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for lunch on-the-go.

Pair it with some diced carrots and a sprinkle of green onions for a refreshing crunch. This salad is not only satisfying but also nutritious, keeping you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, followed by the chopped celery and diced carrots.
3. Add the buffalo chicken on top of the greens.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions over the salad.
5. Drizzle with additional buffalo sauce if desired, and toss gently before serving.

Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad: A Timeless Recipe

The Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish combines tender chicken, crunchy apples, and sweet grapes, all brought together with a creamy dressing. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The vibrant colors in the salad make it visually appealing, and the addition of walnuts adds a satisfying crunch.

This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fruits and nuts provides vitamins and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice. Whether you're at home or on the go, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be stored in the fridge for a quick meal.

Ready to whip up this classic dish? Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup green apples, diced
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apples, halved grapes, chopped celery, and walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich.

Delightful Apple Walnut Chicken Salad For A Sweet Crunch

This Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The crispness of fresh apples pairs beautifully with tender chicken and crunchy walnuts. It's a perfect choice for lunch on-the-go, providing both nourishment and satisfaction.

In the image, you can see a vibrant bowl filled with leafy greens, diced chicken, and slices of red and green apples. The walnuts add a lovely crunch, making each bite enjoyable. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

Making this salad is simple and quick. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a refreshing meal anytime. Let’s get into the ingredients and instructions!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 large apple, diced (any variety you prefer)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 cups mixed greens (like spinach and arugula)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, apples, walnuts, and cranberries.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens. Enjoy it right away or store it in the fridge for later!