A fresh, satisfying salad packed with juicy chicken, crisp lettuce, and sweet tomatoes—tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner, this salad is flavorful, simple, and filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crisp, fresh ingredients with balanced textures
High in protein and satisfying without being heavy
Quick to assemble—ready in under 15 minutes
Versatile as a main dish or wrap filling

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce or greens of choice
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup diced cucumber
2 green onions, sliced thin
½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup mayonnaise (or use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon juice
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: chopped parsley, dill, or basil

directions

Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and shredded cheese.
Dress the salad
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add avocado for creaminess and healthy fats
Switch greens: use spinach, kale, or arugula
Make it dairy-free: skip the cheese and use a plant-based dressing
Add grains: toss in quinoa or farro for extra texture
Wrap it up: use the salad as filling for a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or pita

storage/reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Make-ahead tip: Store dressing separately and combine just before serving
Reheating: Not needed—best served cold or room temperature

Chicken Salad with Lettuce and Tomato

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes—it’s a great time-saver and works perfectly in this salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure all packaged ingredients like mustard are gluten-free.

Can I make it vegan?

Use chickpeas or tofu in place of chicken and choose a vegan dressing and cheese alternative.

What’s the best lettuce to use?

Romaine, green leaf, or even butter lettuce work well for a crisp bite.

Can I add fruit?

Absolutely—try halved grapes, apple slices, or dried cranberries for a sweet touch.

Is it good for meal prep?

Yes—prep everything ahead and store the dressing separately to keep it fresh.

What’s a lighter dressing option?

Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo or a vinaigrette with lemon and olive oil.

Can I use grilled chicken?

Yes—grilled or poached chicken both work great.

What can I serve this with?

Great with a side of pita, fresh fruit, or a cup of soup.

How long does it stay fresh?

Up to 2 days refrigerated, especially if dressing is kept separate until serving.

Conclusion

This Chicken Salad with Lettuce and Tomato is simple, clean, and delicious. With crisp veggies, juicy chicken, and a creamy dressing, it’s everything you need in a light yet satisfying dish—ideal for lunch boxes, busy nights, or weekend gatherings.

Sophia