Are you tired of boring, bland chicken salads that leave you unsatisfied? Get ready to revolutionize your lunch game with this mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Salad that combines zesty citrus, fresh herbs, and creamy textures in one irresistible dish. Perfect for quick summer lunches, picnics, or a light dinner, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the cooked chicken. If you haven't done so already, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. This will create a creamy base for your salad.
- Add the fresh lemon juice to the mixture. The lemon juice will add a bright, zesty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Next, fold in the chopped fresh basil. Make sure to mix gently to evenly distribute the basil without breaking apart the chicken too much.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each, and adjust according to your preference. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly incorporated.
- Once everything is combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for extra tang or more basil for a stronger herb flavor.
- Serve the creamy lemon basil chicken salad immediately, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This salad can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra touch before serving, if desired.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for maximum convenience and flavor
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending
- Chop basil just before adding to maintain its vibrant flavor and color
- For extra creaminess, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving
- Experiment with additional mix-ins like toasted pine nuts or diced celery for texture
- Always taste and adjust seasoning gradually to achieve the perfect balance
- For a lighter version, you can replace mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt
- Serve chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce or as a sandwich filling for versatility
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
