Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious whole foods chicken salad recipes that are not only healthy but also packed with flavor. From classic combinations to unique twists, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and impress your friends and family.
In a world where fast food and processed meals dominate the scene, it’s refreshing to turn to whole foods for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Chicken is an excellent source of protein and can be paired with a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to create a salad that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these whole foods chicken salads are sure to hit the spot.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into our collection of recipes below and get ready to take your salad game to the next level!
Classic Whole Foods Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the savory flavors of chicken, whole grains, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, celery, red bell pepper, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the mixed greens on a serving plate or in a salad bowl.
6. Spoon the chicken salad over the greens.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional walnuts and celery if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This Avocado Lime Whole Foods Chicken Salad is a light and refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad. With the creamy texture of avocado, the brightness of lime juice, and the crunch of whole foods, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries to create a healthy and delicious meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup whole foods mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped walnuts and dried cranberries.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Curry Spiced Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A flavorful and nutritious chicken salad recipe that combines the goodness of whole foods with a warm Indian-inspired curry flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, and arugula)
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, and curry powder until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( prep time only)
Mediterranean Style Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the wholesome goodness of whole foods with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, parsley, oregano, feta cheese, olives, and bell pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Pesto Basil Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of fresh basil, whole foods chicken, and creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked whole foods chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pesto sauce, basil, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing the pesto sauce) + 5 minutes (assembling the salad)
Apple Pecan Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines juicy cooked chicken with crunchy apples and pecans, all held together by a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apple, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Greek Inspired Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep only)
Spicy Chipotle Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This salad is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad, with the spicy kick of chipotle peppers and the freshness of whole foods. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole wheat crackers or pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, red bell pepper, cilantro, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and chipotle peppers.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on whole wheat crackers or pita chips.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Lemon Dill Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the brightness of lemon, the freshness of dill, and the richness of whole foods chicken to create a delightful twist on traditional chicken salad. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great as a topping for greens or served as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked whole foods chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top (if using).
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a no-cook salad!
Balsamic Glazed Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of balsamic glaze, juicy chicken, and crisp veggies from whole foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast (from Whole Foods)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Slice the cooked chicken breast into thin strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Pour the glaze over the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Add the glazed chicken on top of the salad mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and assembly only)
Thai Peanut Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the wholesome goodness of whole foods, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (including kale, spinach, and arugula)
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, brown rice, peanuts, and diced chicken.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Thai peanut sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the peanut sauce mixture over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with sliced red bell pepper and cucumber.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory goodness of whole foods chicken, all tied together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked whole foods chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, roasted red peppers, parsley, feta cheese (if using), and mixed greens.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Roasting the red bell peppers: 30-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
– No additional cooking time required for the chicken, greens, or dressing.
Tarragon Mustard Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of tarragon and mustard with fresh whole foods for a healthy and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped apple
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon tarragon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, apple, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and tarragon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the mustard mixture over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + no cooking time needed (using cooked chicken)
Sun-Dried Tomato Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs with lean chicken and nutritious whole foods, creating a delicious and satisfying salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, parsley, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quinoa Kale Whole Foods Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, tender chicken, and a hint of whole foods goodness. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, diced chicken, mixed berries, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Herb Crusted Whole Foods Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the flavor of fresh herbs with lean protein and healthy fats for a satisfying snack or light lunch. Perfect for a quick meal or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup whole grain mayonnaise (such as Duke’s)
– 1/4 cup diced celery
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in mayonnaise and celery until smooth.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve on whole grain bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Buffalo Style Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and tangy Buffalo-style chicken salad recipe, featuring tender grilled chicken, crispy whole foods, and a zesty sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup whole food croutons (such as almonds or pecans)
– 1/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
2. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, whole food croutons, and crumbled blue cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. Drizzle Buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing over the salad. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 delicious whole foods chicken salad recipes that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor! From classic combinations to unique twists, these salads feature a variety of ingredients such as Greek yogurt, avocado, cranberries, and quinoa. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the best of whole foods, ensuring you get the nutrients your body needs without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, savory, or spicy, there’s a salad on this list that’s sure to satisfy.
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