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 cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Classics

I love making this Simple Spring Chicken Salad for lunch when the weather warms up. With fresh greens, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing, it’s a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of spring. The combination of crunchy vegetables and juicy chicken makes each bite refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, and it's a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. I often double the recipe for meal prep and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a versatile choice for my busy days.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:28:11.181Z

When I first created this Simple Spring Chicken Salad, I wanted something that paired fresh, vibrant ingredients with a protein kick. Cooking the chicken simply with salt and pepper keeps the flavors crisp and allows the greens to shine. I love serving it over a bed of mixed greens, which adds variety and texture to each bite.

This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. I usually make extra dressing to keep in the fridge for other salads throughout the week. It’s a great way to incorporate freshness into everyday meals!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh ingredients that scream spring.
Light yet filling—perfect for warm days.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, seasonal produce is vital for achieving the best flavor in your Simple Spring Chicken Salad. The vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. Look for tomatoes that are firm and deep red for the best sweetness, and pick cucumbers that have a bright green skin without any soft spots. This salad is all about freshness, so be mindful of the quality of your ingredients.

When choosing mixed salad greens, a variety that includes baby spinach, arugula, and butter lettuce can provide a delightful mix of textures and a balance of earthy and peppery flavors. If you prefer a sturdier green, kale can be used, but it should be massaged lightly with a touch of olive oil to soften its texture.

Dressing Details

The dressing plays a crucial role in unifying the flavors of the salad. By whisking together olive oil and lemon juice, you create a light and zesty vinaigrette that enhances the fresh ingredients without overpowering them. The quality of olive oil can make a significant difference; opt for an extra virgin oil that has a fruity flavor profile to lend richness to the dressing.

To customize the dressing further, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for an extra kick or a bit of honey for sweetness if you find the acidity too sharp. If you're looking for a creamier dressing, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt can be stirred in to provide a tangy, rich taste that complements the chicken well.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispness of the greens, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. When storing, use airtight containers to prevent the greens from wilting or absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.

If you aim to double the recipe for a week's worth of lunch, consider portioning out the chicken and veggies in advance. You can also freeze shredded chicken ahead of time; just ensure it's fully thawed before mixing it with the fresh salad ingredients to maximize flavor and texture.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to suit your taste!

Instructions

Here's how to create your delicious Simple Spring Chicken Salad:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the cooked chicken with salt and pepper. If it's not already cooked, grill or sauté it until fully cooked through and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta. Add the shredded chicken on top.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.

Serve immediately for the best flavor, or store in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other toppings like nuts or berries for extra flavor and crunch!

Serving Suggestions

For an enhanced dining experience, serve this salad with crispy whole-grain bread or pita chips. The bread can soak up any extra dressing and provide a satisfying crunch alongside the fresh textures. I also enjoy pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine or a light sparkling water infused with lemon to keep it refreshing on warm days.

If you want to bump up the protein content, adding hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas can make this salad even heartier. These additions will not only increase the nutritional value but will also keep you full longer, making this dish a well-rounded option for lunch or dinner.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to experiment with different proteins based on your dietary preferences. Grilled shrimp or tofu can be fantastic substitutes for chicken while maintaining the salad's lightness and flavor. Each choice brings its personality, adding a new twist to your spring salad experience.

If you want to add a bit of sweetness, consider incorporating seasonal fruits like strawberries or mandarin oranges. Their natural sugars will balance beautifully with the zing of the dressing and create a lovely contrast with the savory feta cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How long can I store the salad?

The salad will last in the refrigerator for about 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can customize this salad by adding bell peppers, avocado, or even some shredded carrots.