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A Personal Connection
I still remember the first time I discovered keto chicken salad—it was a life-saver during my busy workweek. As someone always searching for quick, nutritious meals that fit a low-carb lifestyle, this dish felt like a revelation. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing made it a staple in my weekly meal prep. Whether enjoyed as a lettuce wrap or straight from the bowl, it always satisfies.
Recipe Overview
Keto chicken salad is the epitome of a versatile, flavorful dish that fits seamlessly into a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. This recipe uses simple ingredients like cooked chicken, celery, parsley, and a creamy mayo-based dressing to create a meal that’s not just healthy but also deliciously indulgent.
The textures are what make this dish so special—the crunch of celery and the smoothness of the dressing contrast perfectly with tender, juicy chicken. Ready in just 10 minutes if you have pre-cooked chicken, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights, weekend picnics, or a quick lunch. And with endless variations, it’s one recipe you’ll never tire of.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes when using pre-cooked chicken.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep; stays fresh for up to four days in the fridge.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Only 3g of carbs per serving, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile: Enjoy it in lettuce wraps, over greens, or even as a sandwich filling.
- Customizable: Easily adapt flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
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Essential Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 390 per serving
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Equipment Needed
- Essential Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Optional Tools:
- Salad spinner (if washing lettuce for wraps)
- Food processor (for evenly shredding chicken)
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Ingredients
Main Components
- 1 pound (450g) cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
- 1 cup (100g) celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup (120g) whole egg mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for tanginess)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
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Expert Tips
- For the Perfect Chicken: Use freshly cooked chicken for maximum flavor. Rotisserie chicken works as a great time-saver.
- Customize the Dressing: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Chill Time: Letting the salad chill for 1-2 hours intensifies the flavors.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Avoid freezing due to the mayo-based dressing.
- Serving Style: Spoon into lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap or serve atop a bed of greens for a hearty salad.
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Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Dice or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop celery and parsley finely.
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, parsley, and any optional add-ins.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add lemon juice if desired.
- Combine:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill (Optional):
- Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Spoon the chicken salad into lettuce wraps, over greens, or enjoy on its own.
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Variations and Substitutions
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayonnaise.
- Nut-Free: Skip the pecans or almonds.
Flavor Variations
- Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tangy depth.
- Swap parsley for dill or tarragon for a seasonal twist.
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Pro Tips and Success Secrets
- Ingredient Quality: Opt for high-quality mayonnaise to keep the dressing creamy and flavorful.
- Time Saver: Prep all ingredients ahead and store them separately for quick assembly later.
- Perfect Consistency: If the salad feels too thick, add a small splash of olive oil or water to loosen the dressing.
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Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes for a refreshing side.
- Pair with sparkling water or a light white wine for a casual lunch.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs for garnish before serving.
Keto chicken salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile, reliable dish that suits any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, packing lunch, or simply craving something hearty yet light, this salad has you covered. Happy cooking!
The Perfect Keto Chicken Salad: Your Go-To Recipe for Flavor and Simplicity
Description
This creamy and crunchy Keto Chicken Salad is a low-carb delight packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or meal prep, this recipe combines tender chicken, crisp celery, and a rich mayonnaise-based dressing. Serve it in lettuce cups for a refreshing twist or enjoy it straight from the bowl—it’s versatile, easy, and absolutely delicious!
