Cooked Chicken Lunch Salad

Name: Cooked Chicken Lunch Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

I absolutely love creating quick and nutritious meals, and this Cooked Chicken Lunch Salad is one of my favorites. It's not only a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, but it also packs a punch in flavor and freshness. With a combination of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and tender chicken, it's perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner. Plus, it's ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when I still want something wholesome and delicious.

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-21T19:42:18.546Z

When I first made this Cooked Chicken Lunch Salad, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The combination of fresh greens with tender, shredded chicken creates a delightful texture and flavor that's simply irresistible. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves me time but also ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful in every bite.

I’ve learned that the key to making this salad really pop is in the dressing. By whisking together simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey, I create a bright and zesty dressing that perfectly complements the chicken and veggies. The freshness of this salad makes it a staple in my meal prep routine!

Why You Will Love This Salad
Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes
Loaded with fresh, crunchy vegetables for a satisfying bite
Versatile - perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
Can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to elevating the flavors of this Cooked Chicken Lunch Salad. Opt for organic salad greens and seasonal vegetables whenever possible, as they'll provide the best taste and texture. For instance, substituting regular cucumbers with English cucumbers offers a sweeter and less bitter bite, while heirloom cherry tomatoes deliver a burst of flavor that can truly enhance the overall dish.

The feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the chicken and vegetables beautifully. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using plant-based feta or even avocado for creaminess. Both options not only replace the rich flavor but also introduce healthy fats into your meal, making this salad adaptable for various dietary preferences.

Perfecting the Texture Balance

Achieving the right balance of textures is essential for a satisfying salad. The combination of crunchy vegetables and tender chicken should create an enjoyable eating experience. To maintain that crispness, add ingredients like bell peppers or snap peas, which can add a delightful crunch without compromising freshness. Avoid over-tossing; you want the veggies to remain slightly intact to enhance that crunchy texture.

Another critical element is the dressing. Ensure you whisk the olive oil and lemon juice thoroughly before adding it to the salad. The goal is to achieve an emulsified dressing that clings to each ingredient. If you notice your dressing isn’t sticking, try increasing the honey slightly to bind the mixture better, as its syrupy consistency helps create that cohesive coating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful lunch salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olives, pitted and halved

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious salad:

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Chicken and Dressing

Add the shredded chicken to the salad and drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in dressing.

Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your salad fresh or store leftovers in the fridge for a quick meal later!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, storing each component separately in airtight containers. The salad greens should be kept dry and stored in a cool, dark place, ideally unwashed, until you're ready to serve. This will keep them crisp for about 2-3 days. I often prep the chicken and vegetables on Sunday for quick lunches throughout the week.

If you do combine the salad ahead of time, consider adding the dressing just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps the salad looking fresh. Alternatively, if you have leftovers, enjoyed it chilled the next day; the flavors meld together beautifully in the refrigerator.

Creative Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients based on what you have on hand. For instance, swapping out the chicken for canned tuna or chickpeas can create a delightful twist. If you're in the mood for a spicier kick, toss in some jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for extra zing. Each variation can turn this recipe into something new and exciting.

Additionally, consider adding grains like quinoa or couscous to give your salad a heartier component. This would transform it into a fulfilling meal that can be served warm or cold. Just remember to adjust your dressing accordingly, particularly if the grains absorb some moisture while resting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

Yes, you can grill or bake raw chicken before shredding it for this salad. Just ensure it's fully cooked.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, though it's best to keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

Feel free to use chickpeas, tofu, or any other protein you prefer in place of chicken.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

You can add quinoa, farro, or even some croutons for extra satisfaction!