Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, and this Paleo Chicken Salad is proof! Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and creamy paleo-friendly mayo, this salad is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense and satisfying. Whether you’re following a paleo, Whole30, or low-carb diet, this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a classic favorite with a healthier twist.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a wrap in lettuce leaves, on top of a fresh salad, or even straight from the bowl! Plus, it’s meal-prep friendly, meaning you can make a big batch and have healthy lunches ready for the week.
If you’re looking for more delicious and healthy meal ideas, check out this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew—another comforting dish that fits perfectly into a wholesome lifestyle.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on making this delicious and easy Paleo Chicken Salad!
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Tools)
I’ll include a list of ingredients and necessary tools for making the Paleo Chicken Salad. Stay tuned! 🚀
What You’ll Need
To make this Paleo Chicken Salad, you’ll need wholesome ingredients and a few basic kitchen tools. Below is everything required to prepare this healthy, protein-packed dish.
🥑 Ingredients
For the best paleo-friendly chicken salad, we’ll use simple, natural ingredients that add flavor and texture without processed additives.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- ½ cup paleo mayonnaise (avocado oil-based mayo works best)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- ¼ red onion, diced
- ½ cup grapes or apples, chopped (for natural sweetness)
- ¼ cup almonds or pecans, chopped (for crunch)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (ensure it’s paleo-friendly)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- ½ avocado, mashed (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp paprika (for a smoky kick)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving as wraps)
🍴 Tools & Equipment
You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Cutting board & knife (for chopping ingredients)
- Mixing bowl (to combine everything)
- Fork or whisk (to mix dressing smoothly)
- Measuring spoons & cups (for accurate seasoning)
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to put everything together! If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful chicken dishes, you might also love these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients and tools ready, let’s put together this creamy, flavorful Paleo Chicken Salad in just a few simple steps.
🥣 Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing everything together, it’s important to prep each ingredient properly:
- Cut or shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat with a fork.
- Chop the celery, onion, and fruit into small, even pieces for the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
- Roughly chop the almonds or pecans to add texture without being too chunky.
🥄 Step 2: Make the Creamy Paleo Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
- ½ cup paleo mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For extra creaminess, mash ½ an avocado and mix it into the dressing. This adds healthy fats and makes the salad even richer in texture.
🥗 Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, onion, grapes (or apples), and nuts into the bowl with the dressing.
- Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
🥬 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
There are many ways to enjoy this Paleo Chicken Salad:
✔ Serve in lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing meal.
✔ Spoon it over a bed of fresh greens for a paleo-friendly salad bowl.
✔ Enjoy it on its own straight from the bowl!
For another flavor-packed chicken dish, try these Honey Garlic Chicken Noodles—a perfect slow-cooker recipe for busy days.
Nutrition Score
This Paleo Chicken Salad is not just delicious but also nutrient-dense, making it a great choice for a healthy, balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 1 cup of chicken salad):
🥦 Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Serving)
✔ Calories: ~320 kcal
✔ Protein: 28g
✔ Healthy Fats: 22g
✔ Carbohydrates: 5g
✔ Fiber: 2g
✔ Sugars: 2g
🥑 Key Nutritional Benefits
✅ High in Lean Protein – Helps build muscle and keep you full for longer.
✅ Rich in Healthy Fats – The paleo-friendly mayo, nuts, and avocado provide essential omega-3s for brain and heart health.
✅ Low in Carbs & Sugar – Perfect for paleo, keto, and Whole30 diets.
✅ Good Source of Fiber – The celery, nuts, and optional fruit add fiber for better digestion.
✅ Vitamin-Packed – Provides vitamin A, C, and B-complex from fresh ingredients.
If you’re looking for another nutrient-packed, protein-rich recipe, check out this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew—a warm, comforting dish filled with vitamins and minerals.
Serving & Storage Tips
Proper serving and storage can help you maximize the freshness of this Paleo Chicken Salad, making it a perfect meal-prep option for the week.
🍽️ Best Ways to Serve Paleo Chicken Salad
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in several ways:
✔ Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the salad into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free wrap.
✔ Over Mixed Greens – Serve it on top of a fresh bed of greens for an easy paleo-friendly salad bowl.
✔ With Avocado Halves – Scoop the salad into halved avocados for an extra creamy, nutrient-rich meal.
✔ Stuffed in Bell Peppers – Fill halved bell peppers with the salad for a crunchy, colorful presentation.
✔ Straight from the Bowl – Enjoy it as is for a quick, satisfying snack!
Pair this salad with other wholesome chicken recipes, like these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo for a complete meal idea!
🥶 Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
✔ Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ No Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing can separate and change texture.
✔ Keep It Fresh: To maintain crispness, add nuts right before serving and store without lettuce wraps until ready to eat.
✔ Meal Prep Tip: Divide into individual portions for easy, grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Variations & Substitutions
One of the great things about Paleo Chicken Salad is its versatility! Feel free to swap ingredients to match your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Here are some ideas to customize the salad:
🥑 Ingredient Substitutions
- Paleo Mayo Substitutes: If you don’t have paleo mayonnaise on hand, you can use avocado or olive oil-based mayo. Alternatively, blend coconut cream with a bit of lemon juice for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
- Chicken Substitutes: While chicken is the star of this recipe, feel free to substitute it with turkey or cooked shrimp for variety.
- Fruit Alternatives: Swap grapes or apples with diced pears, pineapple, or berries for a fresh burst of sweetness.
- Nuts & Seeds: If you don’t have almonds or pecans, you can use walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
🍴 Creative Variations
- Spicy Paleo Chicken Salad: Add some chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to give your salad a little heat.
- Crunchy Salad: Toss in shredded carrots or cucumber for added crunch and a refreshing flavor.
- Paleo Chicken Salad with Bacon: For an extra savory kick, add crispy bacon bits into the salad.
- Creamy Dill Chicken Salad: Mix in a teaspoon of dried dill or fresh dill for a herby twist.
For more chicken-inspired meals, try this Honey Garlic Chicken Noodles. It’s an easy, flavorful dish to prepare in the slow cooker!
🌿 Add-Ons & Toppings
Want to take your Paleo Chicken Salad to the next level? Consider adding:
- Hard-boiled eggs for extra protein
- Olives for a briny bite
- Sliced avocado for more creaminess and healthy fats
This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your preferences, making it a perfect option for customizing your meals.
FAQs
Let’s dive into the most frequently asked questions about this delicious, paleo-friendly recipe.
Can you eat chicken on the Paleo diet?
Yes! Chicken is a staple in the Paleo diet. The diet focuses on whole, natural foods, and chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great choice for a paleo meal. Just be sure to avoid processed meats and opt for hormone-free, organic chicken when possible.
Is chicken salad good for losing weight?
Absolutely! This Paleo Chicken Salad is low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, making it a great choice for those looking to lose weight. The protein keeps you full longer, while the healthy fats support metabolism and satisfaction. Pair it with fresh vegetables for a nutritious, weight-loss-friendly meal.
Why did Chick-fil-A get rid of chicken salad?
Chick-fil-A discontinued its popular chicken salad sandwich to focus on other menu items and streamline production. Despite the decision, chicken salad remains a favorite among many customers, and you can easily recreate your own at home, like this Paleo Chicken Salad, to satisfy your craving for a creamy, savory treat.
Is egg salad paleo?
Yes, egg salad can be paleo-friendly if made with clean ingredients. For a Paleo version, use paleo mayonnaise (no sugar or dairy) and combine it with hard-boiled eggs, mustard, and some fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for those following the Paleo diet!
Conclusion
This Paleo Chicken Salad is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that fits perfectly into any paleo, keto, or Whole30 diet. Whether you serve it in lettuce wraps, on top of greens, or simply enjoy it on its own, this salad is a great way to get protein, healthy fats, and fiber in one satisfying meal.
By following the simple steps in this recipe, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a perfect meal prep option for busy days, ensuring you have fresh, nutritious meals ready when you need them.
So, grab your ingredients and make this Paleo Chicken Salad today—your taste buds (and your body) will thank you! Don’t forget to explore other flavorful chicken recipes like the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo or the Honey Garlic Chicken Noodles to keep your meals exciting!