Creamy & Crunchy Chicken Salad
Introducing my action-packed chicken salad, a versatile rendition that’s bursting with nourishment. Made with protein-rich chicken and a medley of fresh ingredients, this recipe is a superfood standout!
As a registered dietitian, I’m always looking for ways to boost nutrition without compromising on enjoyment—and this chicken salad is a prime example. It’s filled with produce and checks so many healthful boxes. If you’re loving this one, be sure to check out my Wild Salmon and Chickpea Salad, Cacio e Pepe Egg Salad, and Rotisserie Chicken Lettuce Wraps—all easy, meal-prep friendly, and packed with goodness.
My creamy-crunchy case for making this ASAP 😉
- Texture, texture, texture: Tender chicken, crisp apples, sweet bell pepper, and toasted pecans = a total texture party in every bite.
- Creamy but lightened-up: The dreamy dressing blends light mayo with protein-rich Greek yogurt (or light sour cream!) for richness without the heaviness.
- Big nutrition, simple ingredients: You get protein, fiber, and healthy fats in one bowl—using wholesome staples you probably already have at home.
- Endlessly adaptable: Swap pecans for almonds, use Dijon or lemon juice, toss in extra herbs or relish—you can make it your own without messing it up.
One of the many things I love about this recipe? You can enjoy it a million ways! Spread it on whole grain crackers, pile it onto toast, or scoop it onto apple slices for a juicy, lower-carb spin. I love the apple idea because it brings juicy sweetness to every bite!
You can also tweak the ingredients based on your mood (or what’s in your fridge!). Try chopped pears or grapes instead of apples, diced celery or jicama for extra crunch, or swap in chives for a gentler onion flavor. Use whatever nuts you have on hand—almonds, pistachios, or walnuts all work great. (Try toasted pumpkin seeds, too!) And feel free to skip the dill or double it if you’re a superfan like me!
You can make this with any cooked chicken, but rotisserie is my favorite shortcut. Just shred and go! So. Darn. Easy. It’s one of my top kitchen hacks because it instantly transforms into so many of my go-to meals—like my Rotisserie Chicken Sliders, Buffalo Chicken Dip, or Chicken Coleslaw with Apples & Pecans. Also, if you’re not a fan of chicken, you can swap it for tuna, salmon, or shrimp if seafood’s more your thing.
However you mix it, this creamy, crunchy chicken salad is likely a recipe you’ll keep coming back to. Healthy, hearty, and full of feel-good flavor—this one’s a keeper!
Try my Tarragon Chicken Salad!
Creamy & Crunchy Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- ½ chopped apple, skin-on (~ 3/4 cup)
- 1 small red or orange bell pepper, diced (~3/4 cup)
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- ⅓ cup light mayo
- ⅓ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice or Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp minced dill
- ¼ tsp salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl and blend until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve on whole grain crackers, toast or on apple slices for a low carb bite.
Fantastic! This so crunchy and tasty. The apples make a big difference. I keep this recipe on the inside of my cupboard door so I can use it and experiment with it.
Hi Gayle, thanks for your kind words! We’re so happy to hear that this recipe is such a favorite that you have it hanging in your kitchen! 🙂 We’re grateful to have you as a member of our community!
—Donna
My digestion system does not tolerate bell peppers. Please suggest a replacement ingredient or should I just drop this from the recipe.
I am a big fan of your recipes and looking forward to enjoying this one.
Thank You.
Hi Frances, we so appreciate having you as a fan and are grateful for your sweet comment! You can simply omit the bell pepper or replace with another finely chopped veggie…whatever you have on hand or prefer. For example, finely chopped jicama would be amazing…or chopped sugar snap peas…or carrots. We hope you love the recipe as much as we do!
—Donna
Can you use canned chicken?
Hi Sandy! Yes, you can use canned chicken. It will have a different texture but will still be delicious! Enjoy!— Eliza (Team Joy)
This was sooo delicious!! I made it with all the ingredients listed. Once it sits in the fridge too it gets better and better!!
Hi Sandy! Thank you so much! So glad you loved this recipe!!— Eliza (Team Joy)