Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

The vibrant flavors of lemon, basil, and creamy Greek yogurt come together in this light and refreshing chicken salad. Paired with crisp celery, sweet red grapes, and crunchy roasted almonds, every bite delivers a perfect blend of tang, texture, and protein.

Whether you’re packing lunch for work, hosting a spring brunch, or just looking for a healthier twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s equally delicious in lettuce wraps, on whole grain bread, or scooped with crackers. Plus, it’s easy to prep in advance and naturally gluten-free!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1½ cups celery, diced
1 cup red grapes, halved
⅓ cup roasted sliced almonds
3–4 green onions, sliced
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup mayo
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt & pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, add shredded chicken, celery, grapes, almonds, green onions, and chopped basil.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve on lettuce cups, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a light and refreshing meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Refreshing Lemon Basil Chicken Salad: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic Favorite

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is more than just a quick lunch solution, it’s a vibrant, protein-packed dish bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. This elevated twist on traditional chicken salad brings together the creamy richness of Greek yogurt, the brightness of lemon, and the aromatic charm of fresh basil. Whether you’re prepping for the week, feeding a crowd at a picnic, or simply craving a nutritious and delicious lunch, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Chicken salad has long been a staple in American kitchens, beloved for its simplicity and adaptability. Traditionally made with mayo and often loaded with less-than-healthy additions, it’s a dish ripe for reinvention. That’s where this lemon basil variation comes in. By swapping out most of the mayo for Greek yogurt, infusing the dressing with lemon zest and juice, and folding in vibrant basil and crunchy veggies, you get a salad that’s not only lighter and healthier but also incredibly satisfying.

The Ingredients: A Closer Look

Each ingredient in this salad has been carefully selected for both flavor and nutritional value.

Chicken Breast

The star of the show is lean, cooked chicken breast. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and incredibly versatile. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, poach your own, or repurpose leftovers from a previous meal. Shredding it gives the salad a hearty texture that holds the creamy dressing beautifully.

Greek Yogurt and Mayo

Rather than relying solely on mayonnaise, this recipe blends in plain Greek yogurt to cut down on fat and boost protein. Greek yogurt brings a tangy depth that complements the lemon and basil beautifully, while still delivering the creamy consistency you expect in a chicken salad. A touch of mayo rounds it out, offering just enough richness without overwhelming the dish.

Lemon Zest and Juice

Lemon adds a zesty, fresh flavor that makes this salad shine. The zest infuses the dressing with citrus oils for a bold punch, while the juice adds brightness and a touch of acidity. This combination lifts the flavors and brings balance to the creaminess of the dressing.

Fresh Basil

Basil is the secret ingredient that transforms this dish from basic to gourmet. It adds a sweet, slightly peppery note that complements the lemon and enhances the overall freshness of the salad. Use fresh basil rather than dried for the best flavor impact.

Celery, Grapes, and Green Onions

For texture and contrast, this salad includes a trio of crunchy, juicy, and slightly sweet additions:

Celery gives a crisp bite and a clean, herbal flavor.
Red grapes add natural sweetness and juiciness that balances the savory notes.
Green onions offer a mild, zesty onion flavor without overpowering the dish.

Roasted Almonds

Roasted sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. They also bring healthy fats and an additional layer of texture, which makes the salad more interesting with every bite.

Nutrition Profile and Dietary Benefits

This Lemon Basil Chicken Salad isn’t just delicious, it’s incredibly nutritious. With high-quality lean protein, good fats, fiber, and minimal added sugar, it fits well into a variety of healthy eating patterns.

Low in Carbs: This salad is a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake. With no bread or pasta, it’s naturally low-carb, especially when served in lettuce cups.
High Protein: Thanks to both the chicken and Greek yogurt, this salad is packed with protein, making it perfect for muscle maintenance and satiety.
Gluten-Free: There are no gluten-containing ingredients, so it’s a safe and satisfying choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Heart-Healthy Fats: The roasted almonds provide monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and add long-lasting fullness.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the greatest things about this chicken salad is how well it holds up in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after a few hours when the flavors have had a chance to meld. This makes it an excellent meal prep option, you can make a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it over several days.

It’s ideal for:

Work lunches
Quick weeknight dinners
Easy picnic fare
Post-workout meals
Hosting brunches or potlucks

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep fresh for 3–4 days.

Versatile Serving Options

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of creative and tasty ways:

Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or keto-friendly meal, scoop the salad into butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap.
Whole Grain Bread or Wraps: Turn it into a sandwich or wrap for a more filling option. Add slices of tomato or cucumber for extra freshness.
Stuffed Avocados: Halve an avocado and fill the center with this salad for a delicious, healthy twist.
Crackers or Crostini: Serve it as an appetizer or snack with whole-grain crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Mason Jar Salad: Layer it in a jar with mixed greens on the bottom for a portable, make-ahead lunch.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

Add chopped apples for more crunch and natural sweetness.
Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans, or omit them entirely if you have a nut allergy.
Use dill or parsley in place of basil for a different herbal note.
Incorporate avocado chunks for a creamy, healthy fat boost.
Make it dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt alternative and omitting mayo or using a vegan mayo.

Ideal for Every Season

Although it’s especially refreshing in spring and summer, this salad is perfect year-round. The ingredients are easy to find and work well in both warm and cold months. Its bright flavors and creamy texture feel light enough for hot days but satisfying enough to enjoy during colder months when you want something filling but not heavy.

Why You’ll Love It

Quick & easy: Ready in 15 minutes with no cooking required if using pre-cooked chicken.
Flavor-packed: Bright, herby, tangy, and creamy in every bite.
Nutritious: Clean ingredients with a balance of macronutrients.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your dietary needs and what’s in your fridge.
Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep and storing for days.

Conclusion

This Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is a standout recipe that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and loaded with flavors and textures that make each bite exciting. With minimal prep and maximum versatility, it’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to again and again, whether you’re looking for a nourishing weekday lunch or a crowd-pleasing picnic dish. The zesty lemon, fresh basil, and creamy yogurt bring an unbeatable freshness that feels gourmet but is simple enough for any home cook.

So next time you’re craving something light, healthy, and full of flavor, skip the takeout and whip up a batch of this delicious chicken salad and you won’t regret it!

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