17 Chicken Salad Recipes That Make Your Lunch Break the Best Part of the Day

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Lunch breaks are too short to waste on food you don’t actually look forward to. A good chicken salad can be prepped ahead, packed fast, and still feel like something you want to sit down and enjoy. These chicken salad recipes keep things simple without being boring, which is exactly what a rushed day calls for. They’re also flexible—easy to scale up, tweak, or use as a way to clear out the fridge. If you’re stuck in a lunch rut, this list might finally break it.

Spicy Southwestern Chicken Salad

Spicy Southwestern Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

This salad packs a punch with bold spices and crunchy veggies, making your lunch break anything but boring. It’s a top pick when you’re craving chicken salad recipes that don’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Southwestern Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet cranberries and crunchy walnuts team up with tender chicken for a combo that’s both fresh and filling. It’s a go-to for those seeking chicken salad recipes with a fruity flair.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe

Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

This mix brings together juicy chicken and tart cranberries, creating a dish that’s both simple and scrumptious. It’s a classic choice among chicken salad recipes for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spicy jalapeños and creamy cheese turn this salad into a flavor fiesta. It’s a must-try if you’re exploring chicken salad recipes with a kick.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Classic Cobb Salad Recipe

Classic Cobb Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska .

Loaded with chicken, eggs, and avocado, this salad is a hearty meal in itself. It’s a staple in the world of chicken salad recipes for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Classic Cobb Salad Recipe

The Easiest Creamy Chicken Salad Recipe

The Easiest Creamy Chicken Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Creamy, dreamy, and ready in minutes—this salad is perfect for busy days. It’s a standout among chicken salad recipes for its simplicity and taste.
Get the Recipe: The Easiest Creamy Chicken Salad Recipe

Low-Carb Thai Chicken Salad

Low-Carb Thai Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Crunchy veggies and zesty dressing make this salad a refreshing choice. It’s a flavorful option when browsing chicken salad recipes with an Asian twist.
Get the Recipe: Low-Carb Thai Chicken Salad

Chopped Crispy Citrus Chicken Salad

Chopped Crispy Citrus Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crisp chicken meets juicy citrus in this bright and bold salad. It’s a refreshing take on chicken salad recipes that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Crispy Citrus Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.

With crunchy noodles and tangy dressing, this salad brings excitement to your plate. It’s a fun pick among chicken salad recipes for a change of pace.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Easy Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe

Easy Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic-glazed chicken come together in this Italian-inspired salad. It’s a flavorful addition to your chicken salad recipes collection.
Get the Recipe: Easy Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe

Coronation Chicken Salad

Coronation Chicken Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

A royal mix of spices and sweet chutney gives this salad its unique flair. It’s a distinguished member of the chicken salad recipes lineup.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

Crunchy Kale Chicken Salad Recipe with Cranberries

Crunchy Kale Chicken Salad Recipe with Cranberries. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Hearty kale and sweet cranberries make this salad both nutritious and tasty. It’s a wholesome choice among chicken salad recipes.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Kale Chicken Salad Recipe with Cranberries

Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon

Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Light and lemony, this salad combines chicken and rice for a satisfying meal. It’s a refreshing option in the realm of chicken salad recipes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Smoky BBQ chicken and crisp veggies make this salad a Southern favorite. It’s a flavorful pick when exploring chicken salad recipes with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Creamy Greek yogurt replaces mayo for a lighter take on the classic. It’s a healthier option among chicken salad recipes without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Cheddar Melt

Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Cheddar Melt. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Melted cheddar and zesty ranch dressing turn this salad into comfort food. It’s a hearty choice in the chicken salad recipes category.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Cheddar Melt

Chicken Salad Deviled Eggs

Chicken Salad Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Chicken salad meets deviled eggs in this protein-packed snack. It’s a creative addition to your chicken salad recipes repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Deviled Eggs

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