Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is fresh and full of flavor. Tender chicken, crisp celery, and the most amazing lemon-basil dressing!
authorโs note
This Is Not Your Average Chicken Salad!
I love coming up with new flavors for chicken salad, and this one might be my favorite lately. Itโs light, fresh, and super herby, and I keep finding myself making it again and again.
Lemon and basil are two flavors Iโm always drawn to, so this combo was an easy yes. The lemon makes everything taste bright and fresh, and the basil adds that little pop of flavor that takes it over the top.
Iโve been eating this on repeat. Sometimes I keep it light and scoop it onto cucumber slices with the seeds scooped out, and other times I go all in with toasted whole-grain bread, lettuce, and avocado. Either way, itโs so good and so easy.
Ingredients
Hereโs what you need to make Lemon Basil Chicken Salad:
| Ingredient | Tip or Swap |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie chicken | Dice small for the best texture. Lemon-pepper chicken adds extra flavor. |
| Fresh basil | Chop very fine so you get it in every bite. |
| Lemon zest & juice | Zest first for stronger flavor, then juice. Bottled juice wonโt taste the same. |
| Mayo & sour cream | Use both for the best creamy balance. Greek yogurt works if needed. |
| Dijon mustard | Adds depth and helps the dressing stay smooth. |
| Celery | Cut small for crunch without overpowering the salad. |
| Freeze-dried dill | A game changer when fresh isnโt on hand or when you donโt want to chop more. |
How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Salad
- On bread or croissants: Makes a delicious sandwich. Add lettuce and avocado for extra flavor.
- In lettuce wraps: Light and fresh. Avocado is a great addition here too!
- With crackers: Perfect for snacking or as a party spread.
- Stuffed in a pita: Add lettuce and avocado for a tasty combo.
- In a wrap: Roll it up in a tortilla for an easy meal.
- With cucumber slices: Crisp, refreshing, and great for a light bite.
Storage
Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Leftovers
- Fridge: Best the same day, but leftovers keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Basil may darken over time.
- Mix before serving: The dressing can separate, so give it a quick stir.
- No freezing: Mayo-based dressings donโt hold up well in the freezer.
More Easy Sandwich Recipes:
Lemon Basil Chicken Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup mayo
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
- 1 large lemon 1/2 tsp zest & 1 tablespoon juice
- 1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1-1/2 teaspoons freeze-dried dill optional
- 2 lightly packed cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced basil
- Serving suggestions see note 1
Instructionsย
- In a large bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Add the diced chicken, celery, and basil to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Enjoy as a sandwich, in lettuce wraps, or over greens.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I loved this! The basil and lemon go so well together. I did substitute honey for the sugar.
Yay! I am so thrilled to hear this! Thanks Judith!