The BEST Whole30 + Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts and/or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt + 2 teaspoons pepper
- 4 stalks of celery
- 1 red bell pepper
ribs and seeds removed
- 1 bunch scallions
sliced
- 1 cup parsley
chopped
- 1 cup roasted almonds
chopped
- or more to taste1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- salt + pepper to taste
Directions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425ºF.
- 2
Pound your chicken to an even thickness. Place on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken has an internal temperature of 165ºF. Rest until cool enough to handle.
- 3
When the chicken is cool enough to handle, break it into large chunks and pulse in your food processor until finely chopped. Transfer the chopped chicken to a large mixing bowl.
- 4
Then, use your food processor to finely chop the celery and then the bell pepper. Transfer to the same large mixing bowl.
- 5
Add in the scallions, parsley, almonds, mayonnaise and dijon mustard. Stir to combine. Salt + pepper to taste, and add more mayonnaise if desired.
- 6
Serve on butter lettuce, wrapped in collard greens, or scoop on top of baby greens.
- 7
Will keep in an airtight container refrigerated for 5 days.
The BEST Whole30 + Keto Chicken Salad
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About this Recipe
Craving a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that perfectly aligns with your Whole30 or Keto lifestyle? This chicken salad recipe delivers on all fronts, offering a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly tasty option that’s far from boring.
Why This Chicken Salad Works
What sets this chicken salad apart is its thoughtful balance of textures and bright flavors. We’re not just talking about chicken and mayo; this recipe is packed with crisp celery and red bell pepper, pungent scallions, and a generous amount of fresh parsley. The addition of roasted almonds is a game-changer, providing a delightful crunch and nutty depth that elevates every bite and ensures a truly satisfying experience.
What to Expect
You can expect a remarkably fresh and vibrant chicken salad that’s both creamy and delightfully crunchy. Each forkful brings a medley of savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing brightened by Dijon mustard and fresh herbs. It’s incredibly satisfying without feeling heavy, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Naturally compliant with both Whole30 and Keto dietary guidelines, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. While the chicken combination is fantastic, you can adjust the ratio of breasts to thighs for your desired texture. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, like pecans or walnuts, in place of almonds for a different flavor profile. For an extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dressing would be delicious. Remember to choose a compliant mayonnaise if you’re strictly adhering to Whole30 or Keto standards.
Serving & Context
This chicken salad is perfect served simply as a light and refreshing wrap in crisp lettuce cups, as suggested in the recipe. It makes an excellent make-ahead lunch for busy weekdays or a delightful addition to a picnic spread, offering a wholesome and flavorful meal for any occasion.