Simple Spring Chicken Salad

Name: Simple Spring Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals

I love how a fresh salad can bring a burst of flavor to my meals, especially during the spring. This Simple Spring Chicken Salad is one of my go-to recipes because it combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. The bright colors and crisp textures play harmoniously, while a zesty dressing ties everything together. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, and I often enjoy it outdoors on sunny days, soaking in the season's beauty.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:04:16.165Z

When I first made this Simple Spring Chicken Salad, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The juicy chicken paired with crunchy greens and a tangy vinaigrette created a delightful mix of flavors that left me yearning for more. I typically grill the chicken to enhance its smoky flavor, which makes a noticeable difference.

Moreover, adapting the salad with seasonal produce can elevate it further. For instance, adding sliced strawberries or avocados can introduce a new layer of deliciousness. I’ve found that using fresh herbs like dill or basil takes the dressing to another level, making it all the more refreshing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh ingredients perfect for spring.
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins.

Understanding the Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients in your Simple Spring Chicken Salad plays a crucial role in achieving vibrant flavors. The mixed greens not only provide a crisp base but also add a variety of textures. You can opt for arugula, spinach, or spring mix; each will bring a unique taste to the salad. Adding seasonal vegetables like radishes or snap peas can enhance the crunch factor, making it feel even more refreshing during warmer months.

Tomatoes and cucumbers are quintessential components that add brightness and juiciness to this dish. Cherry tomatoes should be ripe and sweet; you can tell they’re good by their firm skin and rich color. For the cucumbers, I recommend using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a crisper texture. Don't shy away from experimenting with colors—using yellow or rainbow cherry tomatoes will make your salad visually striking and even more appealing.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing is what elevates this chicken salad, providing a zesty contrast to the ingredients. I suggest whisking the dressing in a jar so you can easily store any leftovers. If you find the dressing too tangy, a teaspoon of honey can sweeten it without overwhelming the flavors. Remember that the key is to emulsify the ingredients; when they come together nicely, you'll know the dressing is ready when it appears glossy and cohesive.

If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding Greek yogurt instead of olive oil, which will also boost the protein content. For those seeking a vegan option, substitute the Dijon with a whole grain mustard and skip the cheese. Experimenting with different herbs—like fresh basil or dill—could also impart a delightful flavor twist, making it customizable to suit different palates.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Simple Spring Chicken Salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Once your ingredients are ready, you're set to create a delicious salad.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Chicken

If you're using raw chicken, grill or bake it until fully cooked, then dice into bite-sized pieces. If you're using pre-cooked chicken, you can skip this step.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well emulsified.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad into serving bowls and enjoy immediately. This salad is best served fresh!

Enjoy your Simple Spring Chicken Salad as a light meal or a hearty side!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you love! Avocado, strawberries, or even nuts can add extra flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re short on time, you can prepare the chicken and dressing a day in advance. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and the dressing can be kept in a sealed jar. Just give the jar a good shake before serving to ensure it’s re-emulsified. However, I recommend adding the salad ingredients just before you’re ready to eat; otherwise, the greens may wilt and lose their crispness when combined too early.

For those looking to prepare a larger batch for meal prep, consider portioning out the salad ingredients in advance. You can layer them in mason jars, starting with the dressing at the bottom to keep the greens dry until serving. Just shake and dump it into a bowl when you’re ready to enjoy a quick and healthy meal on the go!

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a light lunch, but it can easily serve as an impressive side dish for a dinner gathering. Pair it with grilled fish or a quinoa pilaf to create a well-rounded meal. If you want to add more heartiness to it, consider serving it with toasted whole-grain bread or atop a grain like farro or couscous. The additional texture will complement the salad beautifully while lending further nutritional benefits.

For a fun twist, you can transform this salad into a wrap! Use large lettuce leaves or a whole-grain wrap, and load it up with the salad mixture. Adding sliced avocados or a spread, like hummus, can enrich the flavor and provide healthy fats, turning it into a filling meal that’s easy to take on the road.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

→ What other greens can I use?

You can substitute mixed greens with spinach, arugula, or kale based on your preference.

→ Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and skip the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How long can I store the salad?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.