Fresh Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Light, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavor, fresh lemon basil chicken salad is the kind of recipe that feels refreshing yet satisfying at the same time. It takes the familiar comfort of classic chicken salad and elevates it with bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and a creamy but balanced dressing that never feels heavy.

This is the perfect chicken salad for warm weather lunches, quick dinners, meal prep, or elegant entertaining. The lemon adds a clean, zesty bite, the basil brings a subtle sweetness and aroma, and the tender chicken ties everything together into a dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

If you’re looking for a chicken salad that goes beyond the ordinary, this one delivers freshness in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

This recipe is designed to be simple, flexible, and universally appealing.

• Fresh, bright flavors
• Creamy but not heavy
• Easy to make ahead
• Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or salads
• Family-friendly and crowd-approved

It’s a refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad that feels modern, clean, and satisfying.

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The Secret to Fresh Flavor

What sets this chicken salad apart is balance. Lemon juice and zest cut through the creaminess, basil adds natural sweetness, and a touch of garlic deepens the flavor without overpowering it. Using a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt keeps the texture rich while adding lightness.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe.

Ingredients:

• Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• Mayonnaise
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fresh basil, finely chopped
• Celery, diced
• Green onions, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil (optional)

Each ingredient plays a role: chicken provides protein, lemon adds brightness, basil brings freshness, and celery adds crunch.

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How to Make Fresh Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

This recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort.

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add shredded chicken, celery, green onions, and chopped basil.
3. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or slightly cool.

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Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

Use freshly cooked chicken.
Poached, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all work well.

Chop basil finely.
This ensures even flavor throughout.

Zest before juicing.
It’s easier and preserves more aroma.

Chill before serving.
The flavor improves as it rests.

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Easy Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable.

• Extra crunch: Add sliced almonds or toasted pine nuts
• Creamier: Increase mayo slightly
• Dairy-free: Use all mayo or avocado-based dressing
• Protein boost: Add chickpeas or quinoa
• Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes

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How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

This chicken salad shines in many forms:

• Stuffed into croissants or sandwich bread
• Wrapped in lettuce cups
• Served over mixed greens
• Scooped with crackers
• Packed into meal prep containers

It’s equally great for lunchboxes, picnics, or casual entertaining.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make ahead:
Prepare up to 24 hours in advance for best flavor.

Storage:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refreshing leftovers:
Add a squeeze of lemon and fresh basil before serving.

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A Chicken Salad That Feels Fresh and Modern

This fresh lemon basil chicken salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Bright, herbaceous, and creamy in all the right ways, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or entertaining, this dish brings freshness, flavor, and comfort to the table—without ever feeling heavy.