Simple Spring Chicken Salad

Name: Simple Spring Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I absolutely love creating light and refreshing meals as the weather warms up, and this Simple Spring Chicken Salad is one of my favorites. Each bite bursts with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I tend to customize it based on what I have on hand, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients. The balance of flavors and textures in this salad makes it a delightful choice for any spring gathering.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:22:12.326Z

When I first tried this Simple Spring Chicken Salad, I was amazed by how vibrant and fresh it felt. The combination of crisp vegetables and tender chicken makes for a delightful meal that echoes the flavors of spring. I particularly love using a variety of herbs to enhance the taste, allowing the ingredients to shine without overpowering them.

One day, I experimented with adding some zesty lemon dressing, and it transformed the whole dish. The brightness from the citrus paired beautifully with the greens and chicken, making it not only a dish but a celebration of flavors. Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your palate for the best experience!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Bursting with fresh, seasonal ingredients
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
A delightful balance of protein and crunchy veggies

Ingredient Insights

The backbone of this Simple Spring Chicken Salad lies in its vibrant, seasonal ingredients. The mixed greens serve as a refreshing base, providing not only texture but also a variety of flavors—baby spinach offers a mild taste while arugula brings a peppery kick. Opt for organic greens when possible; they tend to be fresher and have more nutrients. Try experimenting with other greens such as kale or romaine for different textures and nutrients.

Cherry tomatoes are more than just colorful decor; they offer a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken. Choosing ripe, in-season tomatoes will enhance the overall flavor of your salad. If cherry tomatoes aren't available, consider substituting with diced bell peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist. Remember, using fresh ingredients will elevate the taste, making each bite delightful.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

Making the dressing from scratch allows you to control the flavor profile, enhancing your salad significantly. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the ingredients, melding the flavors together beautifully. For a creamier dressing, you could add Greek yogurt or avocado to give it a richer texture without adding excessive calories.

When whisking the vinaigrette, aim for an emulsion where the oil and lemon juice integrate well, becoming slightly thicker. This means whisking vigorously or using a jar and shaking it until the mixture is glossy. If the dressing doesn’t come together, try adding another teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a touch of water to thin it out without losing cohesion.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This salad is versatile: serve it immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Chilling not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a refreshing meal as the warm weather approaches. You can plate it in individual servings for an elegant touch or in one large bowl for casual gatherings.

If you have leftovers, store the salad separately from the dressing to prevent sogginess. In an airtight container in the fridge, it should be good for up to two days. I like to repurpose leftover salad by mixing it into wraps or grain bowls; this keeps meals interesting throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

If you haven't done so already, cook the chicken by grilling, poaching, or baking until fully cooked. Let it cool before dicing.

Mix the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Add the diced chicken to the bowl of vegetables and then drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes for a refreshing experience.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding sliced almonds or croutons before serving. Feel free to substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this Simple Spring Chicken Salad! Grilled peaches can be an excellent addition for a touch of sweetness, or add sliced radishes for an additional crunch. If you're craving something spicier, toss in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Remember, you can always adjust the recipe based on your preferences or what you have available.

For a protein-packed punch, consider adding chickpeas or beans to the mix. These not only enhance the nutritional value but also lend a hearty texture that contrasts with the crisp vegetables. Opt for canned beans, but ensure to rinse them well to eliminate extra sodium before adding to the salad.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your salad seems too dry after combining the vegetables and chicken, drizzle a touch more dressing over it or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Sometimes the addition of fresh herbs can also enhance moisture, so don’t skip those—it transforms the dish altogether.

If you find your chicken is slightly overcooked and dry, try slicing it thinner and mixing it thoroughly with the dressing to help alleviate dryness. The flavors from the dressing also help to rejuvenate the texture, making it more palatable.

Make-Ahead Ideas

To save time on busy days, you can prepare various components of this salad in advance. Cook the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before; simply combine them when you're ready to eat. The dressing should also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator—just give it a good shake before serving to re-emulsify.

Consider keeping your greens separate until serving if you're preparing this salad for later. This way, they stay crisp and fresh rather than wilting. By following these make-ahead tips, you'll have a quick, nutritious meal ready at your fingertips.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, avocados, radishes, or any seasonal vegetables that you like!

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in the fridge for a couple of days if kept in an airtight container.

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic timesaver and adds great flavor!