Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Combining tender shredded chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic basil, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Ready in minutes, it’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded chicken (store bought or homemade)*
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1-2 celery stalks, finely diced
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prep the salad by adding the shredded chicken, finely diced red onion, and celery to a large bowl; then set it aside.
2. Step 2: Make the dressing by mixing the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, chopped basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper together in a small bowl.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggies. Toss everything together until fully combined. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
4. Step 4: Serve the salad immediately with your favorite crackers or use it as a sandwich filling with your preferred bread. Alternatively, keep it chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, add a little more Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to your liking.
• Swap basil with fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Add chopped toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
• Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for added depth of flavor.
• If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute mayonnaise with avocado and omit the yogurt.

Storage

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if desired. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly, saving preparation time while adding great flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this chicken salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 81 reviews

A refreshing and easy-to-make lemon basil chicken salad combining shredded chicken with fresh basil, zesty lemon, and a creamy blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, served with crackers or as a sandwich filling.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Salad

• 2 cups shredded chicken (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1–2 celery stalks, finely diced

Dressing

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prep the salad. Add the shredded chicken, finely diced red onion, and celery into a large bowl, mixing gently to combine. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the dressing.
2. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Toss. Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything together until the ingredients are fully coated and evenly combined. Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve. Serve the chicken salad immediately with your favorite crackers or use it as a sandwich filling with your preferred bread. Alternatively, refrigerate the salad until ready to serve for the flavors to meld.

Notes

• Use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• Adjust the lemon juice and zest to your taste for more or less citrus flavor.
• For a lighter option, use low-fat mayonnaise or increase the amount of Greek yogurt.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Feel free to add other fresh herbs like parsley or chives for variation.

Keywords: chicken salad, lemon basil chicken salad, easy chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, no-cook chicken recipe, creamy chicken salad