Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying dish, look no further than this Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with the bright flavors of lemon and fragrant basil, all enveloped in a creamy yet tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s a perfect balance of zesty, herby, and savory notes that makes it an ideal meal for any season—whether a light lunch, a picnic treat, or a quick dinner option. Once you try this Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to recipes for days when you want something delicious and fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the bright, creamy, and refreshing character of this salad. From the crisp celery adding texture to the fresh basil bringing herby bursts of flavor, every element counts in making this Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad truly shine.

• 2 cups shredded chicken: Cooked chicken provides the hearty base and protein punch.
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch without overpowering the dish.
• 1-2 celery stalks, finely diced: Brings crisp texture and fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
• ¼ cup mayonnaise: Offers creaminess and richness that binds the ingredients together.
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightness to balance the mayonnaise.
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped: Bursts of aromatic herbaceousness that elevate the salad’s flavor profile.
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice: Essential citrus acidity to brighten and lift the dish.
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of lemon flavor with fragrant oils.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings savory depth without overwhelming the salad.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything nicely together.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: A mild heat to balance the salad perfectly.

How to Make Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by tossing shredded chicken, finely diced red onion, and celery in a large bowl. The chicken provides the meaty heart of the salad, while the onions and celery add layers of crunch and subtle bite that will keep each spoonful exciting.

Step 2: Whip Up the Flavor-Packed Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, chopped fresh basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens—a creamy, tangy, herb-studded blend that will transform the simple chicken and veggies into a feast of flavor.

Step 3: Mix and Adjust

Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture, then toss gently until every ingredient is lovingly coated. Taste the salad and add a little more salt or pepper if needed. This step allows you to personalize the balance between zest, creaminess, and seasoning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is perfectly combined, it’s ready to enjoy immediately. Whether spooned onto crunchy crackers, tucked inside fresh bread for a sandwich, or simply served chilled on its own, this salad is a joy to eat. Alternatively, keep it chilled until your mealtime.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few extra torn basil leaves or a thin lemon slice on top for a fresh, eye-catching garnish. A light drizzle of olive oil can add a beautiful sheen and additional richness that complements the salad perfectly.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides such as mixed greens, a crisp cucumber salad, or a simple tomato and mozzarella plate. These cool, fresh sides won’t compete with the salad’s bright flavors but will round out your meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop the Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad into hollowed-out avocado halves or tomatoes. You can also serve it atop toasted baguette slices for a chic appetizer or pack it into lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap option that’s perfect for picnics or lunches on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

Because of the fresh herbs and creamy dressing, freezing this chicken salad is not recommended. The texture and flavor can suffer from thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days max.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you do wish to warm it, remove the dressing first or add it afterward to maintain that fresh, creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time when making this Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad.

Is Greek yogurt necessary in the dressing?

Greek yogurt adds a lovely tang and lightness to balance the richness of the mayonnaise, but you can substitute with sour cream or extra mayo if preferred.

How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to three days, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prep.

Can I add other herbs besides basil?

While basil is the star here, adding fresh parsley or dill can give the salad a new flavor twist. Just keep in mind the lemon and garlic flavors as you experiment.

What’s the best way to serve this salad for a gathering?

Serve it as a filling for mini sandwiches, stuffed into cherry tomatoes, or as a dip with crackers and veggie sticks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug made from food. Bright, creamy, and full of fresh flavors, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again. Don’t hesitate—try making it today and share the joy with your favorite people. Once you do, it might just become your next favorite salad for every occasion.

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