When it comes to satisfying summer meals, nothing hits the spot quite like a flavorful, creamy, and refreshing chicken salad. And if you’re a fan of vibrant herbs and zesty citrus, this Copycat Lemon Basil Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by gourmet deli flavors, this dish is simple to prepare, light on the stomach, and big on taste.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekday lunch, a weekend brunch, or looking to meal-prep something healthy and high-protein, this salad checks every box. It’s one of those different chicken salad recipes that feels both indulgent and wholesome—perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
🥗 What Is Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?
This twist on traditional chicken salad combines shredded chicken, fresh basil, and lemon juice and zest, layered into a creamy yet light mayo or yogurt base. It’s often served cold, making it a favorite during warm months or for light dinners. The brightness of the lemon and the aromatic punch of basil give it a Mediterranean flair that sets it apart from heavier chicken salad versions.
🌿 What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
There are plenty of herb chicken salad recipes out there, but here’s why this one’s a star:
- Fresh basil infuses it with garden-fresh flavor.
- Zesty lemon balances the creaminess.
- Crunchy add-ins like celery and nuts keep the texture interesting.
- Customizable base with Greek yogurt or mayo lets you control the richness.
- Versatile enough to be served on sandwiches, in wraps, lettuce cups, or over grains.
This recipe hits that perfect middle ground between “I love food” indulgence and “health dinner recipes” sensibility.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in this basil chicken salad recipe plays a key role. Here’s why they matter:
✅ Chicken (2 cups, cooked and shredded)
Use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or poached chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work well if you prefer a juicier bite.
✅ Fresh Basil (1 cup, chopped)
Aromatic and sweet, basil brings life to this salad. This is your opportunity to make the most of fresh basil recipes dinners that feel restaurant-worthy.
✅ Lemon Juice & Zest (2 tbsp juice + 1 tbsp zest)
Lemon brightens and balances the richness of the mayo or yogurt.
✅ Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt (½ cup)
Mayonnaise brings traditional creaminess, while Greek yogurt makes it tangy and high-protein.
✅ Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
Adds a rich, smooth texture and a subtle Mediterranean flavor.
✅ Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp)
Lends a sharp tanginess that enhances all other ingredients.
✅ Garlic (1 small clove, minced)
Gives a subtle kick—raw garlic keeps the flavor fresh and bold.
✅ Green Onions (2 stalks, thinly sliced)
Adds mild, peppery notes and crunch.
✅ Celery (½ cup, diced – optional)
Gives the salad a fresh crunch and bulk without extra calories.
✅ Pine Nuts or Almonds (¼ cup – optional)
Toasted nuts add richness and texture. You can skip these or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Shred or chop your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can boil, bake, grill, or use rotisserie. For added flavor, marinate your chicken briefly in olive oil and lemon before cooking.
Pro Tip: If you’re starting from scratch, poach 2 chicken breasts in water with bay leaf, salt, and pepper for 12-15 minutes, then let cool before shredding.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- Olive oil
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon zest and juice
- Minced garlic
- Salt and black pepper
This zesty, creamy dressing forms the heart of the dish.
3. Mix the Salad
Fold the shredded chicken into the dressing. Add:
- Basil
- Green onions
- Celery
- Nuts (if using)
Toss until everything is well coated.
4. Chill and Serve
Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is optional, but chilling helps meld the flavors beautifully.
🧊 How to Store & Meal Prep
This homemade salad recipe keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store it separately from your greens or bread to prevent sogginess.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh basil and dairy content.
🥪 Creative Ways to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Salad
Here’s where the fun begins. Think beyond sandwiches:
1. Stuffed Pita Pockets
Layer the salad with shredded lettuce and tomatoes in whole-wheat pita bread.
2. Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb version, scoop the salad into butter lettuce cups and top with thin cucumber slices.
3. Grain Bowl
Serve it over quinoa, farro, or brown rice with cherry tomatoes and roasted red peppers.
4. Croissant Sandwich
For brunch, serve in halved croissants with arugula. It’s elegant and satisfying.
5. Dip Style
Use as a party dip with crackers, celery sticks, or baguette slices.
🌱 Healthy Tweaks & Add-ins
This salad is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs. Make it even healthier with these swaps:
| Ingredient | Healthy Swap | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | Plain Greek yogurt | Adds protein and reduces fat |
| Chicken breast | Chicken thigh | More moist and flavorful |
| Pine nuts | Sunflower seeds | Nut-free and still crunchy |
| Celery | Cucumber | Refreshing and hydrating |
| Extra lemon | Lime or vinegar | Adds a new twist |
🌟 Flavor Boosters & Variations
Want to jazz it up? Try these:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy Italian twist.
- Toss in capers or olives for a briny punch.
- Use tarragon or parsley with or instead of basil.
- Stir in a spoonful of pesto for basil overload (in a good way).
- Top with feta cheese for a Mediterranean salad vibe.
🇮🇹 A Nod to Mediterranean Flavors
This salad feels straight out of a Tuscany summer kitchen. It’s reminiscent of Italian chicken salad with a California twist. The combination of lemon, herbs, and olive oil captures that sun-soaked Mediterranean feel. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, focaccia, or a chilled glass of white wine for a relaxed yet refined meal.
❓ FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Not recommended. Dried basil lacks the brightness and texture that fresh basil offers.
What kind of chicken is best?
Poached or rotisserie chicken is tender and easy to shred. Grilled adds a smoky layer of flavor.
Is this salad dairy-free?
It can be! Use dairy-free mayo or unsweetened vegan yogurt.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better after a few hours in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
How long will it last in the fridge?
3 to 4 days when stored properly.
📋 Printable Recipe Card
Here’s a simplified recipe card to save, screenshot, or print:
📌 Copycat Lemon Basil Chicken Salad
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins (if cooking chicken)
Chill Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 30–60 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup mayo or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ½ cup celery, diced (optional)
- ¼ cup pine nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a large bowl.
- Stir in chicken, basil, onions, celery, and nuts.
- Chill for 30 minutes (optional).
- Serve cold in sandwiches, bowls, or wraps. Enjoy!
