This creamy keto chicken salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and rich mayo, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. It’s low in carbs and full of flavor!
I love making this salad because it’s so simple and satisfying. Serve it on lettuce leaves, and you’ve got a great meal that feels a bit fancy without the fuss! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great choice for convenience. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try poaching your chicken breasts in broth. It keeps them moist and adds flavor.
Mayonnaise: Using avocado or olive oil-based mayo adds health benefits and extra flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, swap it for dairy-free mayo or even mashed avocado for creaminess.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt makes this dish tangier and adds protein. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut yogurt works as an alternative, although it may slightly change the flavor.
Celery: Celery gives a nice crunch, but if it’s not your favorite, you could use diced bell peppers or even cucumber to freshen things up.
Dill: Fresh dill is lovely and aromatic, but if you’re out, try substituting with parsley or basil for a different twist. Dried dill is also an option if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Make Sure Everything is Mixed Well?
Getting a perfect mix in your chicken salad can be tricky. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Begin with the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and sour cream first. This ensures that the chicken is evenly coated.
- Gradually fold in the veggies: Next, introduce the chopped celery, red onion, and dill. This prevents them from getting crushed in the mixing process.
- Season to taste: Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then mix everything until just combined. A final taste check will help you adjust seasoning as needed.
Remember to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado or olive oil-based)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Veggies and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, refreshing meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture, making sure everything is well mixed together.
2. Add the Extras:
Next, add the chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, fresh or dried dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl. Gently stir everything together so that all the ingredients are combined well, creating a flavorful salad mixture.
3. Adjust the Taste:
Taste your chicken salad! If you think it needs a little more flavor, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. Everyone’s taste is different, so make it your own!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to blend together nicely. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve your chicken salad chilled on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or even stuffed in avocado halves. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred or chop it up and use it in place of cooked chicken. It adds extra flavor and saves time!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or avocado instead of mayonnaise. Both provide creaminess while adding a protein boost! Just note that using Greek yogurt will give the salad a tangier flavor.
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain freshness!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! You can mix in additional ingredients like chopped pickles, bacon bits, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the mayo and sour cream to maintain the desired creaminess!
