Are you in need of some protein-packed meal inspo? This is for you because I’ve got 15 mouthwatering high-protein chicken salads that are perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and delicious meal. From the creamy goodness of a Greek yoghurt chicken salad to the zesty flavors of a mandarin chicken salad, I’ve got you covered with a variety of recipes that will have you coming back for more. So let’s dive into these easy and satisfying recipes that will leave you feeling fueled and ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way.
15 Easy High-Protein Chicken Salads
1. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This easy Greek yoghurt chicken salad is a game-changer when it comes to satisfying cravings for that creamy classic, without all the guilt. Loaded with shredded chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, zesty red onion, and salty almonds, this salad is a protein-packed powerhouse. Ditch the mayo for Greek yoghurt and indulge in a lighter, creamier delight that will leave you craving more. Simply mix all the ingredients in a bowl, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and you’re ready to enjoy! Enjoy this delicious salad anytime, anywhere! Pair it with crackers, bread, wraps or greens for a satisfying snack or meal.
2. Tzatziki Chicken Salad
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad rocks! It’s like a Greek vacation in a bowl, with juicy chicken, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy tzatziki sauce infused with fresh dill and zesty lemon. Shredded rotisserie chicken, zesty tzatziki sauce, crunchy cucumber, fresh dill and creamy Greek yoghurt unite for a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Perfect for meal prep, this is truly a kitchen masterpiece that keeps me fueled and satisfied all week long! Give it a try!
3. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This chicken Caesar pasta salad is ridiculously delicious and packed with protein! Loaded with savory pan-fried chicken, crispy bacon, homemade croutons, pasta, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and parmesan cheese, this salad is bursting with flavor and texture. To make it, simply cook the pasta, bacon, and chicken, then toss them all together in a large bowl with the dressing. Plus, don’t forget to squeeze a little lemon juice on top for an extra zing! it’s the perfect dish for busy days when you need a hearty and delicious meal that comes together in no time. Trust me, once you try this chicken Caesar pasta salad, you’ll be hooked!
4. The Best Buffalo Chicken Salad
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this mouth-watering high-protein buffalo chicken salad! Juicy chicken thighs marinated in spicy buffalo sauce, perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion and paprika, take centre stage. Paired with crisp romaine lettuce, grated carrots, sliced celery and cherry tomatoes, this salad boasts unparalleled flavor and nutrition. Easy peasy and oh so delicious! Time to dig in and enjoy this flavor-packed, nutrient-rich salad.
Related: 15 Easy High-Protein Lunch Recipes for Meal Prep
5. Avocado Chicken Salad
This avocado chicken salad recipe is a game changer for those busy days when you need a quick and protein-packed lunch. Made with shredded chicken, creamy avocado, tangy Greek yoghurt, zesty lime juice, and fresh cilantro, this salad is ready in just 10 minutes – perfect for meal prep or a last-minute meal. Simply mix the avocado sauce, add in your chicken, red onion, and cilantro, and you’re good to go. Serve it up in a sandwich, over a bed of greens, or straight out of the bowl – the choice is yours. Gluten-free and high in protein, this avocado chicken salad is a must-have in your recipe arsenal for those hectic days when you need a nutritious and delicious meal.
6. Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Salad
If you need a quick and delicious lunch option, I highly suggest this pesto chicken and broccoli salad! With just a handful of simple ingredients like chopped cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, red onion, basil pesto, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and black pepper, you can make a filling and flavorful salad in no time. Just chop, mix, and serve – it’s that easy! The creamy pesto dressing adds a burst of herbaceous flavor, while the crunchy broccoli and tender chicken create the perfect combination of textures. Whether you enjoy it immediately or save it for later, this salad is sure to become a lunchtime favorite.
7. Sesame Chicken Salad
I’m telling you, this high-protein sesame chicken salad is about to become your new go-to meal prep favorite! It’s got everything—crunchy romaine, vibrant red cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, and a kick of fresh cilantro, all coming together most deliciously. But the real star? Juicy shredded chicken marinated in a homemade sesame ginger dressing that’s packed with flavor. We’re talking olive oil, soy sauce, honey, sesame seeds, and a hint of garlic and ginger—so simple, yet so good. Just toss the chicken with half the dressing, pile it onto the veggies, and finish it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, crunchy peanuts, or crispy wonton strips. Trust me, this high-protein salad will have you feeling like you just whipped up something straight out of a fancy restaurant!
8. Thai Chopped Chicken Salad
Call all salad lovers and protein seekers – you HAVE to try this Thai chopped chicken salad! with a mix of crunchy veggies like cabbage, cucumber, and red pepper, this salad is not your average boring bowl of greens. top it off with air fryer shredded chicken, roast your cashews, and a flavor-packed dressing made with soy sauce, peanut butter, sriracha, and more – you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time. and the best part? it’s super easy to make and all the ingredients can be found at your local supermarket. just air fry the chicken, shred it up, mix in the veggies and cashews, drizzle on that delicious dressing, and voila!
Related: 15 High-Protein Pasta Salads Perfect for Meal Prep
9. Mandarin Chicken Salad
Get ready to be wowed by this mandarin chicken salad! Picture a rainbow of crisp veggies, juicy oranges, tender chicken, and toasted almonds all tossed in a mouth-watering sesame-ginger dressing. This salad is like a party in your mouth, and you’re invited! Simply shred some cabbage, and mix it with carrots, sugar snap peas, green onions, and cooked chicken. Prepare the dressing with rice vinegar, sesame oil, coconut aminos, and a sprinkle of ginger and garlic. Pour it all over the salad, give it a good toss, and top it off with oranges, cilantro, and some crunchy almonds. Voila! You’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality Chinese Chicken Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
10. Cucumber Dill Rotisserie Chicken Salad
This cucumber dill rotisserie chicken salad is the perfect blend of fresh and flavorful ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. With juicy rotisserie chicken, creamy Greek yoghurt, crunchy cucumber, and a zesty mix of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and herbs, this protein-packed salad is a breeze to make in less than 10 minutes. Simply chop up your chicken, mix everything in a bowl, and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner option, this salad is sure to hit the spot. So next time you’re in a pinch for a meal, reach for this easy and delicious recipe.
11. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
This high-protein cranberry pecan chicken salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy—making it a total meal prep win! It’s loaded with tender chunks of chicken, tart dried cranberries, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, all tossed together with a creamy, seasoned mayo dressing that ties everything together perfectly. Whether you’re piling it onto a sandwich, scooping it up with crackers, or serving it over lettuce for a lighter option, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser for potlucks and parties, and it stays fresh in the fridge for days—making it a super convenient, protein-packed option for busy weeks!
12. Chicken Waldorf Salad
Need a protein boost? Try the classic Chicken Waldorf Salad! This surprising combo of chicken, apples, celery, grapes and parsley becomes irresistible with a tangy Greek yoghurt dressing. This unexpected yet harmonious blend of shredded rotisserie chicken, crisp apples, crunchy celery, juicy grapes and fresh parsley creates a flavor explosion. Top it off with a zesty Greek yoghurt dressing, perfected with mayo, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice.
13. Chick-Fil-A Cobb Salad
Get ready to build your chicken cobb salad at home with this delicious recipe! Start by baking some crispy chicken tenders or popcorn chicken and grilling a fresh corn cob for that perfect flavor. Then, layer the mixed greens in a bowl and top with shredded cheddar, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, hard-boiled egg slices, corn kernels, and creamy avocado. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salted sunflower seeds on top for an extra crunch! Finish it off with your favorite dressing, or try making your own homemade cilantro avocado ranch or creamy Dijon. This salad is the perfect healthy meal prep option that you can enjoy for lunch or dinner. It’s easy, nutritious, and oh-so tasty!
14. Cashew Chicken Rotini Salad
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious pasta salad recipe that packs a protein punch, check out cashew chicken rotini salad. Loaded with juicy grapes, savory chicken, and crunchy cashews, this salad is a surefire hit at any gathering. Simply cook the rotini, mix in the chicken, grapes, and cranberries, then drizzle on a creamy ranch dressing and mayo combo. Pop it in the fridge for an hour to let the flavors mingle, then stir in those salty cashews right before serving. Indulge in this culinary delight, expertly balancing ease, flavor and satisfaction.
Related: 15 High-Protein Bowls You Can Make in Under 30 Minutes
15. The Best Ever Chickpea Salad
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this incredible chickpea chicken salad recipe! Imagine this hearty chickpeas, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and nutty walnuts mixed in a creamy Mayo Dijon dressing. It’s like a party in your mouth! To make this protein-packed, vegan masterpiece, start by prepping your chickpeas – drain, rinse, and peel those little guys (trust me, it’s worth it). Then mash them up and throw in the parsley, dill, celery, red onion, grapes, and walnuts. Mix in some vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! 15 delicious and easy high-protein chicken salads to keep you fueled and satisfied on those busy days. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing Greek yoghurt chicken salad, a zesty tzatziki chicken salad, or a comforting chicken Caesar pasta salad, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try the best-ever buffalo chicken salad or create a batch of the creamy avocado chicken salad for a quick and healthy meal. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not mix up a batch of the sesame chicken salad or the vibrant Thai chopped chicken salad? With these recipes in your arsenal, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for convenience again.
