Chicken Salad Recipe No Mayonnaise

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe No Mayonnaise

Looking for a healthier twist on classic chicken salad? This no-mayo version is fresh, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick lunch. No heavy dressing—just light, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re avoiding mayo for health or taste, this recipe has you covered. Read on to discover how easy and delicious it can be.

Essential Ingredients & Healthy Substitutions

This no-mayo chicken salad relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver both flavor and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need—and how to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Core Ingredients for the Salad

• Cooked chicken: Use grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken. Shredded or diced breast meat works best.
• Crisp vegetables: Celery, red onion, and cucumber add crunch and freshness.
• Fruits (optional): Grapes, apples, or dried cranberries for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Nuts or seeds: Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for texture and healthy fats.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley, dill, or chives brighten the flavor.

Healthy No-Mayo Dressing Options

Instead of mayonnaise, choose lighter, tangy dressings that still provide creaminess and moisture:

• Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy with a slight tang. It’s high in protein and works well as a mayo substitute.
• Avocado: Mashed avocado adds richness and heart-healthy fats.
• Olive oil and lemon juice: A simple vinaigrette with a zesty kick.
• Dijon mustard: Adds sharpness and depth, especially when mixed with oil or yogurt.
• Honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette: For a sweet-savory balance.

Suggested Substitutions

Swap Greek yogurt with plain coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version. Use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. Replace nuts with seeds for nut allergies. Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to bulk it up and add more plant-based protein.

Dressing Ideas Without Mayonnaise

The secret to a great chicken salad without mayonnaise lies in the dressing. You want something that adds creaminess or tang, enhances flavor, and binds everything together. Here are a few no-mayo dressing options you can use, each offering a different taste and texture profile.

Greek Yogurt Dressing

• Flavor: Tangy, creamy, and light
• Best For: A classic-style chicken salad with fewer calories

How to Make:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a touch of honey for balance

This dressing mimics the creaminess of mayo but is healthier and protein-rich.

Avocado Dressing

• Flavor: Smooth, rich, and slightly nutty
• Best For: Creamy texture lovers and those avoiding dairy

How to Make:

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

Blend until smooth for a fresh, vibrant green dressing.

Dijon Vinaigrette

• Flavor: Tangy, sharp, and a bit spicy
• Best For: Lighter, zesty salads

How to Make:

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt and cracked black pepper

Shake or whisk together until emulsified.

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

• Flavor: Sweet and tangy with a bit of bite
• Best For: Those who like sweet-savory balance

How to Make:

• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt

Pairs well with fruits and nuts in your salad.

Lemon-Herb Dressing

• Flavor: Bright and fresh
• Best For: Mediterranean-style or herb-loaded salads

How to Make:

• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp chopped fresh dill, parsley, or basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Drizzle just enough to coat everything lightly.

Tips for Choosing the Right Dressing:

• For creaminess, go with Greek yogurt or avocado.
• For light, tangy flavor, choose vinaigrettes like Dijon or lemon-herb.
• For sweet-savory contrast, opt for honey mustard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a chicken salad without mayonnaise is quick, easy, and flexible. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful, satisfying dish from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Here are a few options:

• Grilled or baked chicken breasts: seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
• Rotisserie chicken: quick and convenient; just remove the skin and shred or chop.
• Poached chicken: gently cooked in water or broth for a tender texture.

Tip: Let the chicken cool before chopping or shredding for the best texture.

Step 2: Chop the Add-Ins

Dice or slice your chosen mix-ins. Common options include:

• Celery: for a crunchy texture.
• Red onion: for a sharp bite (soak in water first to mellow the flavor).
• Apples or grapes: for a hint of sweetness.
• Nuts or seeds: like almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
• Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, basil, or chives for a burst of freshness.

Place all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

Choose your preferred no-mayo dressing (see Section 2).
Whisk or blend the ingredients in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined.

Example:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the dressing to the bowl of chopped chicken and mix-ins. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 5: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the ingredients meld and improves texture.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your no-mayo chicken salad into:

• Lettuce wraps or cups
• Sandwiches or wraps
• Over a bed of greens
• With crackers or toast
• As a high-protein snack on its own

Variations & Flavor Add-Ins

One of the best things about chicken salad—especially without mayo—is how customizable it is. You can easily change up ingredients to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have in your kitchen. Below are delicious variations and add-ins to make your chicken salad even more exciting.

Flavor Variations

Greek-Style Chicken Salad

• Add: Cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese
• Dressing: Lemon-oregano vinaigrette or olive oil with lemon juice and garlic
• Optional: Serve in pita pockets or over mixed greens

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

• Add: Shredded carrots, apple slices, and sunflower seeds
• Dressing: Honey mustard vinaigrette (honey, Dijon, olive oil, lemon juice)
• Optional: Use romaine or iceberg lettuce as a crisp base

Avocado Chicken Salad

• Add: Diced avocado, cilantro, red onion, and lime juice
• Dressing: Creamy mashed avocado with a little olive oil and lime
• Optional: Add jalapeños or cumin for a Mexican-inspired twist

High-Protein Chicken Salad

• Add: Hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or quinoa
• Dressing: Greek yogurt with mustard and lemon juice
• Optional: Great for meal prep or post-workout meals

Sweet & Crunchy Chicken Salad

• Add: Grapes or apple chunks, chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds), and celery
• Dressing: Yogurt-based or honey mustard for a sweet-savory combo
• Optional: Serve in croissants or sandwich rolls

Optional Add-Ins

Mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect version:

• Fruits: Grapes, apples, dried cranberries, mango
• Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, shredded carrots
• Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds
• Herbs & Spices: Dill, basil, cilantro, chives, paprika, cumin
• Grains & Legumes: Quinoa, chickpeas, farro for added fiber and texture

Make It Your Own

• Low-Carb Option: Skip fruits and grains; serve in lettuce cups or on greens
• Vegan Twist: Use chickpeas or tofu in place of chicken and avocado or tahini dressing
• Kid-Friendly: Add sweet fruits, use less onion, and go for a creamy yogurt dressing

Serving Suggestions

No-mayo chicken salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways—whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a light dinner. Here are some of the best ways to serve your chicken salad without mayonnaise:

In Lettuce Wraps

Use large, crisp lettuce leaves such as:

• Romaine
• Butter lettuce
• Iceberg

Why: This option is low-carb, fresh, and perfect for a handheld bite. Just scoop the salad into each leaf, fold, and enjoy.

As a Sandwich or Wrap

Spread your chicken salad onto:

• Whole grain bread
• Tortilla wraps
• Pita pockets
• Croissants (for a more indulgent version)

Tip: Toast the bread or wrap lightly for added texture.

Over a Bed of Greens

Serve the salad on top of mixed greens, arugula, or baby spinach for a refreshing salad bowl.

• Add-ons: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado slices pair well. Drizzle extra vinaigrette if desired.

With Crackers or Rice Cakes

Spoon the salad onto:

• Whole wheat or seed crackers
• Brown rice cakes

Perfect For: A quick snack, lunchbox, or appetizer tray.

Stuffed in Vegetables

Try serving it inside:

• Bell pepper halves
• Cucumber boats
• Avocado halves

Why: It adds crunch and makes for an elegant presentation.

On Grain Bowls

Build a balanced meal by adding your salad to a base of:

• Quinoa
• Brown rice
• Farro

Tip: Top with extra veggies or a soft-boiled egg for a hearty, protein-rich bowl.

As a Protein Side

Serve it as a side dish alongside:

• Soups (like tomato or vegetable)
• Grilled vegetables
• Roasted sweet potatoes

Great For: Light dinners or pairing with warm, comforting dishes.

Final Serving Tips:

Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with chopped herbs, lemon zest, or extra seeds/nuts for visual appeal.

• Portion control: Use a measuring cup or scoop to keep servings neat, especially for meal prep or parties.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

One of the best things about chicken salad without mayonnaise is how well it stores and how easy it is to prep in advance. Whether you’re planning weekday lunches or prepping for a picnic, these storage and meal prep tips will keep your salad fresh and flavorful.

How to Store Chicken Salad (No Mayo)

Refrigerator:

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when kept cold. If your salad contains ingredients like avocado or apple, squeeze in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Separate the Dressing:

If you’re meal prepping multiple portions, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it just before serving. This helps keep the texture of ingredients like nuts, herbs, and greens crisp.

Avoid Soggy Texture:

Add moisture-rich ingredients (like cucumbers or tomatoes) just before serving. If using yogurt or vinaigrette-based dressings, give the salad a quick stir after chilling to redistribute any settled dressing.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad Without Mayo?

Generally, freezing is not recommended, even for mayo-free versions. Here’s why:

Ingredients like yogurt, avocado, and fresh vegetables may separate or become watery once thawed. The texture will likely change and may become unappetizing.

What You Can Freeze:

You can, however, freeze plain cooked chicken in individual portions. When ready to make the salad:

• Thaw the chicken
• Add fresh mix-ins and dressing

This approach gives you a freezer-friendly shortcut without compromising taste or texture.

Meal Prep Tips

Portion Ahead:

Divide the salad into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Use reusable, BPA-free containers with tight-fitting lids.

Customize Each Serving:

Keep base ingredients the same, but mix in different toppings like nuts, fruits, or herbs in each portion to avoid repetition.

Pack Separately:

If using bread, wraps, or lettuce leaves, store them separately to avoid sogginess.

Add Fresh Garnishes Later:

Fresh herbs, seeds, or lemon wedges can be added just before eating to keep the flavors bright.

Quick Summary:

• Fridge shelf life: 3–4 days in an airtight container
• Avoid freezing: Texture will suffer
• For best texture: Store dressing and wet ingredients separately
• Ideal for meal prep: Pack ahead in single servings

Nutrition & Dietary Benefits

Chicken salad without mayonnaise isn’t just a tasty meal—it’s a nutritious one too. By swapping out heavy mayo for lighter alternatives, this version of chicken salad becomes a smart choice for many different diets and health goals.

Lower in Calories and Fat

Traditional chicken salad with mayonnaise can be high in saturated fat and calories. By using alternatives like:

• Greek yogurt
• Avocado
• Olive oil-based vinaigrettes

You reduce total fat while adding healthier fats or protein, depending on the ingredient. This makes the salad feel light but still filling.

High in Protein

Chicken is naturally rich in lean protein, which helps:

• Build and repair muscle
• Keep you full longer
• Support a healthy metabolism

Adding Greek yogurt, chickpeas, or boiled eggs can boost the protein even more, making it an ideal meal after workouts or for sustained energy during the day.

Packed with Fresh Produce

This version includes fresh vegetables and herbs like:

• Celery
• Onion
• Cucumber
• Parsley or dill

These ingredients are low in calories but high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins such as:

• Vitamin C (immune support)
• Vitamin K (bone health)
• Potassium (heart health)

Adding fruits like apples or grapes also introduces natural sweetness and more fiber.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Using ingredients like:

• Avocado
• Olive oil
• Nuts or seeds

Provides a dose of unsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health and help reduce inflammation.

Diet-Friendly and Allergen-Aware

No-mayo chicken salad can easily be adapted for:

• Low-carb or keto diets: Skip fruits and grains, use leafy greens as a base.
• Paleo and Whole30: Use avocado or compliant dressings without added sugar.
• Dairy-free diets: Use avocado or oil-based dressings instead of yogurt.
• Nut-free diets: Choose sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Always check labels for store-bought items like mustard or dressings to avoid hidden sugars or allergens.

Nutritional Snapshot (Estimate per 1 cup serving with yogurt-based dressing):

• Calories: ~250–300
• Protein: ~25–30g
• Fat: ~10–15g (mostly healthy fats)
• Carbs: ~5–10g (varies by add-ins)
• Fiber: ~2–4g

Note: Exact values depend on your ingredients and portion size.

Final Tips for Success

Creating a delicious chicken salad without mayonnaise is all about choosing the right ingredients, balancing flavors, and paying attention to texture. Whether you’re making it for the first time or refining your go-to version, these expert tips will help you get the best results every time.

Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

• Chicken: Cook it yourself for maximum flavor and control. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but be sure to remove the skin and bones.
• Veggies and Herbs: Crisp vegetables and fresh herbs add brightness and texture—don’t skip them.
• Dressings: Make your own dressings for better flavor and fewer additives.

Let the Chicken Cool Before Mixing

Adding hot chicken to your salad can cause the dressing to separate and make the salad watery. Let it cool to room temperature or chill it before combining with other ingredients.

Don’t Overdress the Salad

Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed. Overdressing can lead to soggy textures, especially if the salad will sit in the fridge for a while.

Balance Texture and Flavor

Aim for a good mix of:

• Crunchy (celery, nuts, onion)
• Creamy (yogurt, avocado)
• Tangy (lemon juice, mustard)
• Sweet (fruit, honey)

Each bite should offer contrast and interest.

Season Well

Without mayo, seasoning becomes even more important. Don’t forget:

• Salt and black pepper
• A splash of acidity (lemon juice or vinegar)
• Optional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or a pinch of cayenne

Taste and adjust as you go.

Prep Ingredients in Advance

For quick assembly during the week:

• Cook and shred chicken ahead of time
• Chop veggies and store in airtight containers
• Make dressing and refrigerate separately

This makes building the salad as easy as mixing everything together when needed.

Stir Before Serving

If the salad has been stored in the fridge, give it a quick stir to redistribute dressing and freshen the texture.

Serve Cold for Best Taste

Chicken salad is at its best when served chilled. This enhances the crispness of the veggies and the flavor of the dressing.

Conclusion

In summary, this chicken salad recipe without mayonnaise offers a healthy, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. It’s light, protein-rich, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and dressings. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fresh lunch option, this no-mayo version delivers taste, texture, and nutrition in every bite. Give it a try—you might never miss the mayo again!

FAQS

Chicken Salad Recipe No Mayonnaise

Looking for a healthy chicken salad recipe no mayonnaise? Discover a delicious and creamy alternative using yogurt, avocado, or olive oil for a lighter twist on the classic favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer, Drinks, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chicken skins and bones removed diced
• 1 celery rib chopped
• 2 tablespoon red onion finely diced
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries I like reduced sugar craisins
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
• 2 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper freshly ground
• chopped parsley chives or dill

Method

 

1. In a large bowl combine diced cooked chicken, finely diced red onion, chopped celery and dried cranberries.
2. Add Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper.
3. Mix the salad thoroughly until all ingredients are combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
5. Serve sprinkled with fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley or chives (optional).