Easy Chicken Breast Salad

This easy chicken breast salad is a quick, healthy meal made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a simple homemade dressing. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or when you want something light but filling. Ready in under 30 minutes, this salad is endlessly customizable and full of fresh flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make
High in protein and filling
Great for meal prep
Fresh, simple ingredients
Works for lunch or dinner

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika

Salad

6 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ avocado, sliced (optional)

Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast Salad

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).

Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, add salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado if using.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble

Top salad with sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
Grill or air-fry chicken for added flavor
Slice chicken against the grain
Add dressing just before serving

Variations

Mediterranean: Add feta, olives, and oregano
Caesar-Style: Use romaine and Parmesan
Low-Carb: Skip honey and add more avocado
Meal Prep: Store chicken and salad separately

Storage

Chicken keeps refrigerated for 3–4 days
Salad vegetables best eaten fresh
Dressing can be stored separately for 5 days

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or wraps
Pair with soup for a complete meal
Great as a filling for sandwiches or pita

Final Thoughts

This easy chicken breast salad is simple, fresh, and endlessly adaptable. With juicy chicken and crisp vegetables, it’s a go-to recipe for healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.