Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is a light, refreshing dish that combines shredded chicken with a creamy, zesty lemon basil dressing. This salad is perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or a satisfying snack. The vibrant combination of flavors makes it a delightful addition to your summer meals. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or a tasty dish to enjoy at a picnic, this Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

This Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is not just delicious but also offers numerous benefits. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weekdays. Second, it is packed with protein, thanks to the shredded chicken, making it a filling option. Third, the fresh herbs and lemon juice provide a burst of flavor without excess calories, aligning perfectly with a low-calorie diet. Fourth, this salad is versatile; you can enjoy it as a meal or a side. Additionally, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or meal prep for the week. Finally, this salad is ideal for summer gatherings, adding a refreshing touch to any table.

Ingredients for Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Gather these items:

2 cups shredded chicken (store bought or homemade)
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
1-2 celery stalks, finely diced
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the chicken: If using homemade shredded chicken, season 1-1½ lbs. of chicken tenders with salt and pepper, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, and shred using two forks. For store-bought chicken, simply shred it and add to a bowl.
Step 2: Prep the veggies: Finely dice the red onion and celery, and add them to the bowl with the shredded chicken.
Step 3: Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Toss: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables, mixing until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Step 5: Serve: Serve immediately with crackers, in a sandwich, or as a wrap. Alternatively, refrigerate until ready to use.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried basil won’t achieve the same vibrant taste.
For a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
Consider adding diced avocado for extra creaminess and nutrition.
This dish can be made a day in advance, enhancing the flavors overnight.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

There are many delicious ways to enjoy your Lemon Basil Chicken Salad. You can serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a healthy lunch, use it as a filling for a sandwich or wrap, or serve it with whole-grain crackers as a refreshing snack. This salad also pairs beautifully with a light citrus vinaigrette for added zest.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

To store your Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a good stir. It’s perfect for meal prep, making it easy to have a healthy lunch on hand!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially the basil and lemon juice, which brighten the dish and enhance the flavor profile.

Can I make Lemon Basil Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?

Ensure the chicken is properly shredded and mixed evenly with the dressing to avoid dry bites. Also, adjusting the seasoning to your taste is key.

Variations of Lemon Basil Chicken Salad You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations: add diced apples or grapes for sweetness, substitute the chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or include nuts for added crunch. You can also create a Low-carb Lemon Basil Chicken Salad by skipping the yogurt and mayonnaise and using avocado instead.

For more delicious salad ideas, check out Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad or Chickpea Avocado Salad. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken for a hearty option!

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish

Author: basmer
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is a light, refreshing dish that combines shredded chicken with a creamy, zesty lemon basil dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or a satisfying snack.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: If using homemade shredded chicken, season 1-1½ lbs. of chicken tenders with salt and pepper, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, and shred using two forks. For store-bought chicken, simply shred it and add to a bowl.
Prep the veggies: Finely dice the red onion and celery, and add them to the bowl with the shredded chicken.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Toss: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables, mixing until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serve: Serve immediately with crackers, in a sandwich, or as a wrap. Alternatively, refrigerate until ready to use.