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Basil Chicken Salad Recipe

4.4 from 105 reviews

A refreshing and creamy Basil Chicken Salad combining tender shredded chicken with fresh basil, zesty lemon, and a tangy yogurt-mayonnaise dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a delicious sandwich filling.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Salad

  • 2 cups shredded chicken (store bought or homemade)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 12 celery stalks, finely diced

Dressing

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prep the salad. Add the shredded chicken, finely diced red onion, and diced celery to a large mixing bowl, then set it aside while you prepare the dressing.
  2. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  3. Toss the salad. Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together carefully until evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
  4. Serve. Serve the Basil Chicken Salad immediately with your favorite crackers or use it as a delicious sandwich filling with your preferred bread. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate the salad until ready to use.

Notes

  • This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness.
  • For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt or use a low-fat mayonnaise.
  • Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for extra crunch if desired.
  • Use fresh herbs for best flavor; dried basil will not provide the same aromatic freshness.
  • Serve chilled for a refreshing taste on warm days.

Keywords: Basil Chicken Salad, Chicken Salad Recipe, Easy Chicken Salad, Healthy Chicken Salad, Basil Recipes, Greek Yogurt Dressing