Looking for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal? This Chicken Chopped Salad is everything you want in a hearty salad—crispy lettuce, juicy grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, and a bold homemade dressing. Every bite is full of texture and flavor, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
It’s a go-to meal prep idea, a wholesome lunch, or even a light dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s highly customizable based on what you’ve got in the fridge!
🥗 Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chopped Salad
- High in protein and fiber
- Quick and easy – great for busy weeknights or meal prep
- Versatile – swap ingredients based on what’s in season
- Meal-sized salad – filling enough to stand on its own
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or potlucks
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic chopped chicken salad:
- 2 cups grilled or rotisserie chicken, chopped
- 3 cups Romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, chopped
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, canned, or grilled)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or feta cheese
- Croutons or tortilla strips (optional for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of honey for balance
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients
Wash and chop all vegetables. Cube the avocado and shred or cube the chicken. - Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, chicken, and all chopped vegetables. Toss gently to mix. - Dress & Serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad, toss to coat evenly, and top with cheese and croutons or tortilla strips if using. Serve immediately.
🧠 Pro Tips
- Make ahead: Store chopped ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
- Dressing hack: Use your favorite store-bought dressing to save time (ranch, Caesar, or balsamic work great).
- Add-ins: Try chickpeas, olives, hard-boiled eggs, or quinoa for more texture and nutrients.
- Spicy twist: Add jalapeños or a spicy Southwest-style dressing.
🥄 Variations
- BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad – Toss chicken with BBQ sauce and top with ranch dressing.
- Greek Style – Add Kalamata olives, feta, and oregano vinaigrette.
- Asian Chicken Salad – Use shredded cabbage, sesame dressing, and crispy wontons.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
This salad is ideal for:
- Lunchbox meals
- Summer dinners
- Picnic spreads
- Potluck gatherings
- Healthy meal prep containers
💬 Final Thoughts
Chicken Chopped Salad is your ticket to an easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal. It’s everything you need—protein, veggies, and healthy fats—all in one bowl. Whether you’re eating clean, trying to use up leftover chicken, or just want a satisfying salad, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Wholesome, colorful, and seriously delicious—you’ll want to make this again and again.