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Summer is the perfect time to enjoy vibrant, refreshing meals that are both healthy and full of flavor.
Chicken salads are a great option to keep things light, yet satisfying, with endless combinations of fresh ingredients that are ideal for warm days.
Whether you’re grilling chicken on the barbecue, roasting it in the oven, or tossing it in a tangy dressing, there’s a summer chicken salad for every occasion.
From creamy and comforting to crisp and refreshing, this collection of 23+ summer chicken salad recipes will help you make the most of the season’s best ingredients.
These recipes are easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with all the flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
23+ Delicious Summer Chicken Salad Recipes for Every Taste
These 23+ summer chicken salad recipes will become your go-to meals all season long, whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or serving guests at a picnic.
With the right mix of protein, crisp veggies, and vibrant dressings, you’ll never run out of tasty, healthy options.
From classic flavors to tropical twists, these recipes can be easily customized to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
So, get ready to enjoy every bite of these light, refreshing salads that bring a perfect balance of nutrition and flavor.
Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad
When smoky grilled chicken meets the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches, summer instantly feels more vibrant.
This salad is a symphony of charred, tender protein paired with lush, sun-kissed fruit and a zesty vinaigrette that brightens every bite.
Fresh arugula and creamy goat cheese add peppery and tangy undertones, creating a dynamic contrast in flavor and texture.
It’s perfect as a standalone light lunch or a refreshing side to grilled meats on warm evenings.
Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
Bright, citrusy, and herbaceous, this chicken salad bursts with the flavors of summer gardens and open-air markets.
Succulent shredded chicken is tossed in a lemon-infused dressing with hints of parsley, dill, and chives that awaken the senses.
The creamy yet light consistency makes it ideal for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or served over chilled couscous.
Its fresh aroma and clean finish offer a cooling escape on the hottest of days.
Avocado Chicken Salad
Creamy avocado mingles with tender chunks of chicken in a refreshingly rich yet wholesome salad that satisfies without weighing you down.
A splash of lime juice and a pinch of chili flake add a zing that keeps every bite interesting and crave-worthy.
The smooth, buttery texture of avocado pairs beautifully with crisp veggies like celery and red onion, adding dimension and crunch.
Serve it in halved avocados, spread it on whole-grain toast, or spoon it straight from the bowl—no judgment here.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Sun-drenched ingredients like Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta bring bold, briny notes to this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Grilled chicken absorbs the tang of red wine vinaigrette and the sweetness of roasted red peppers, transporting your tastebuds to coastal villages.
With a base of crisp romaine or farro, this salad is as versatile as it is flavorful.
It shines as a standalone meal or complements seafood spreads and mezze platters beautifully.
Thai Chicken Salad
This vibrant salad dances between sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, delivering the balanced boldness Thai cuisine is known for.
Shredded chicken gets tossed in a ginger-lime dressing with notes of fish sauce and honey, creating a marinade-like flavor explosion.
Crisp cabbage, shredded carrots, and crushed peanuts add texture and crunch that contrast beautifully with the tender meat.
It’s just as welcome at a picnic as it is wrapped in rice paper for a summery handheld treat.
Strawberry Poppy Seed Chicken Salad
Juicy strawberries and tangy poppy seed dressing elevate this salad to a sweet-and-savory masterpiece.
Each bite offers the cool freshness of fruit, the tender bite of grilled chicken, and the surprising richness of slivered almonds.
A mix of spring greens and baby spinach cradles the colorful ingredients in a bed of crisp, leafy goodness.
Perfect on its own or paired with a glass of chilled rosé, it’s a salad that tastes like sunshine.
Cucumber Chicken Salad
Light, crisp, and oh-so-refreshing, this cucumber chicken salad is like a cool breeze on a hot summer day.
Juicy slices of cucumber, tender chicken, and fresh dill combine in a simple yet satisfying dish that bursts with clean, bright flavors.
The yogurt-based dressing adds a creamy smoothness while balancing the freshness of the cucumbers with a tangy finish.
It’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a side to complement barbecued meats and roasted vegetables.
Southwest Chicken Salad
Packed with smoky flavors and a bit of a kick, this southwest chicken salad is a bold and satisfying way to enjoy summer’s best ingredients.
Tender grilled chicken is paired with corn, black beans, and avocado, while a cilantro-lime dressing brings the dish together with just the right amount of zest.
The combination of creamy avocado and crunchy tortilla strips offers the perfect balance of texture in each bite.
This salad shines both as a light dinner or as a flavorful side to tacos or fajitas.
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
This sweet and tangy honey mustard chicken salad is the ideal balance of flavor for those who love a little bite in their meals.
Grilled chicken is coated in a luscious honey mustard dressing that has the perfect balance of sweetness and sharpness.
Crunchy greens like spinach and mixed lettuce pair with slices of apple, adding a refreshing crispness to every mouthful.
Whether served on its own or as a filling for wraps, it’s a quick and satisfying meal for a warm day.
Asian Chicken Salad
A perfect blend of crunchy vegetables and savory chicken, this Asian-inspired salad is a flavor-packed treat.
Shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers combine with marinated chicken in a sesame-soy dressing that infuses every bite with rich umami.
The toasted sesame seeds and crispy noodles add a delightful crunch, creating a multi-layered texture that makes this salad irresistibly satisfying.
It’s perfect for a light lunch or served alongside grilled shrimp or steak.
Pesto Chicken Salad
Basil pesto isn’t just for pasta—this pesto chicken salad is a fragrant, herbaceous delight that brightens up any meal.
Tender chunks of chicken are tossed with a generous amount of fresh pesto, bringing in an aromatic blend of basil, garlic, and Parmesan.
The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts adds bursts of flavor and satisfying texture.
It’s a beautiful option for a quick and flavorful dinner, or served as a savory side to a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Caprese Chicken Salad
A simple yet stunning fusion of flavors, this Caprese chicken salad brings the flavors of Italy straight to your table.
Juicy slices of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil come together with grilled chicken in a light balsamic glaze.
Each bite offers a perfect harmony of fresh, tangy, and savory notes, with the chicken adding substance without overpowering the dish.
This salad is ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish that pairs effortlessly with a crusty loaf of bread.
BBQ Chicken Salad
Smoky, savory, and packed with bold flavors, this BBQ chicken salad is the ultimate summer dish for BBQ lovers.
Tender chunks of grilled chicken are smothered in smoky barbecue sauce, creating a deep, rich flavor that’s balanced with fresh greens.
Crisp corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla chips add texture and contrast, while a tangy ranch dressing ties everything together.
It’s hearty enough to be a main course or a delicious side to your next grilled feast.
Citrus Chicken Salad
Zesty, refreshing, and citrusy, this salad is a tangy celebration of fresh summer produce.
Grilled chicken is paired with a medley of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, giving it a bright burst of sweetness and acidity.
The addition of avocado creates a creamy texture, while mint leaves bring a cool, fragrant lift to each bite.
It’s the perfect salad to enjoy on a warm day, whether as a light lunch or a side to grilled fish.
Spinach Chicken Salad
Fresh spinach and perfectly seasoned chicken are the stars of this healthy and satisfying salad.
Each bite is packed with the earthy taste of spinach, complemented by the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken and a tangy vinaigrette.
Crunchy walnuts and crumbled feta add depth of flavor and texture, making this salad as hearty as it is refreshing.
It’s great on its own or served alongside a hot bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
Apple Chicken Salad
Crisp apples and tender chicken come together in this sweet and savory salad that balances the best of both worlds.
The juiciness of the apples adds a refreshing crunch, while the chicken provides a savory backbone, all tossed in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing.
Celery and grapes add additional sweetness and crunch, making this a light yet filling salad.
Enjoy it in a wrap, on a bed of lettuce, or as a delicious standalone meal during the warmer months.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
For those who love a bit of spice, this buffalo chicken salad offers all the bold flavors of buffalo wings without the mess.
Shredded chicken is coated in a fiery buffalo sauce, offering a hot, tangy kick that’s beautifully balanced by cooling ranch dressing.
Crisp lettuce, crunchy celery, and sliced cucumber add a refreshing contrast to the heat, while blue cheese crumbles bring creamy depth.
This salad is perfect for a spicy lunch or as a vibrant side to your favorite grilled meats.
Chickpea Chicken Salad
This hearty chickpea chicken salad is a protein-packed powerhouse, combining tender chicken with fiber-rich chickpeas for a filling, nutritious dish.
The creamy tahini dressing, with its nutty flavor, beautifully coats the chicken and chickpeas, while lemon juice adds a refreshing zing.
Cherry tomatoes and cucumber give a burst of juiciness and crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
It’s ideal as a meal on its own or served alongside a fresh, warm pita for an easy, satisfying lunch.
Chicken Caesar Salad
A classic with a twist, this Chicken Caesar salad brings rich, creamy dressing together with savory grilled chicken for a satisfying dish.
The crisp romaine lettuce perfectly complements the tender chicken, while crunchy croutons and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan add the ideal textures.
The garlic-infused dressing delivers the perfect punch of flavor, making this salad a comforting yet fresh option for any meal.
It’s great as a standalone dinner or paired with a hearty soup for a well-rounded meal.
Waldorf Chicken Salad
This vibrant, fruity Waldorf chicken salad combines the creaminess of mayonnaise with the sweetness of apples and grapes.
Tender chicken breast is paired with crunchy celery and walnuts, creating a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy textures.
A light dressing binds all the ingredients together, giving each bite a refreshing and slightly tangy finish.
This salad works wonderfully as a filling for wraps, or served as a light lunch on its own.
Italian Chicken Salad
This Italian-inspired chicken salad bursts with bold flavors and the comforting aromas of the Mediterranean.
Grilled chicken is tossed with tangy olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh mozzarella, creating a salad full of color and taste.
A simple balsamic vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, enhancing the savory depth of the salad with each bite.
Perfect for pairing with crusty bread or as a stand-alone dish for a summer meal.
Poppy Seed Chicken Salad
This delightful poppy seed chicken salad combines the sweetness of a honey-mustard dressing with the savory richness of tender chicken.
Crunchy vegetables like celery and bell pepper add freshness, while the poppy seeds provide a subtle texture and a touch of elegance.
The dressing’s smoothness balances out the crispness of the veggies, making it a perfectly satisfying meal.
Serve it in a wrap, on a bed of greens, or alongside some crackers for a picnic-ready dish.
Cobb Chicken Salad
A classic Cobb chicken salad offers a rich, satisfying meal with a variety of bold ingredients that work together beautifully.
Grilled chicken is paired with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and tangy blue cheese, offering an explosion of flavors in each bite.
The rich and creamy dressing ties it all together, creating a deliciously decadent salad that’s both filling and refreshing.
This hearty salad can be a meal on its own or served as a side with grilled meats.
Mango Chicken Salad
This tropical mango chicken salad is an escape to paradise with its sweet and savory balance.
Tender chicken is paired with juicy mango, crisp lettuce, and crunchy almonds, all drizzled with a light citrus dressing.
The mango adds a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, while the almonds give a delightful crunch.
Perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish for a summer barbecue.
Conclusion
With 23+ mouthwatering summer chicken salad recipes at your fingertips, you’re guaranteed to find new favorites for your summer menu.
The versatility of chicken paired with fresh, seasonal ingredients offers endless possibilities for creating vibrant, satisfying meals.
Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, or light, there’s a recipe here for every craving.
Embrace the season and make the most of the fresh ingredients at your local market—your taste buds will thank you!
