10 Delicious One-Bowl Chicken Salad Ideas for Lazy Cooks

Cooking doesn't have to be a complicated affair, especially when it comes to tasty meals like chicken salad. Here, we’ll share some one-bowl chicken salad meal ideas that are perfect for those laid-back days when you want something quick, nutritious, and satisfying. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, these recipes are designed for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal with ease.

Quick And Easy Classic Chicken Salad

This classic chicken salad is a perfect meal for those lazy days when you want something quick and tasty. The image shows a vibrant bowl of chicken salad, filled with tender chicken pieces, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. The fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

Making this salad is super simple. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for lunch or a light dinner. Just grab your cooked chicken, chop some veggies, and mix in your favorite dressing. It’s all about convenience and flavor!

Here’s how to make your own classic chicken salad:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, and halved grapes.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
5. Enjoy your chicken salad on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens!

Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad

This Zesty Avocado Chicken Salad is perfect for those lazy days when you want something fresh and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the salad, with creamy avocado, tender chicken, and bright lime, make it not just a meal but a feast for the eyes.

The combination of flavors is refreshing. The avocado adds creaminess, while the lime juice gives it a zesty kick. Toss in some red onion and cilantro for a hint of crunch and herbiness. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a light lunch or dinner.

Plus, it’s super easy to prepare! Just chop, mix, and serve. You can enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or even on top of a bed of greens. It’s versatile and can be customized based on what you have at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocados, chopped red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
3. Gently toss everything together until well mixed. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a cooler option.
5. Enjoy your salad on its own, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens!

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a perfect meal for those lazy cooking days. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. The star of the dish is tender, sliced chicken breast drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing. The vibrant greens and cherry tomatoes add a nice crunch and a pop of color, making it visually appealing.

To make this salad even better, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for a creamy texture. The combination of flavors makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s all served in one bowl, which means less cleanup!

Here’s how to whip up this delightful dish:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (like romaine and spinach)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by placing the mixed greens in a large bowl.
2. Add the sliced chicken breast on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes and shredded cheese over the chicken.
4. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing generously over the salad.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.
6. Toss everything gently to combine, or serve as is for a beautiful presentation.

GET 21 QUICK & EASY LOW-CALORIE MEAL PLANS

Asian Chicken Salad With Sesame Dressing

This Asian chicken salad is a perfect meal for those lazy days when you want something quick and tasty. The vibrant colors of the salad make it visually appealing, and the combination of flavors is simply delightful. You can see shredded chicken, crunchy carrots, and juicy cherry tomatoes all tossed together in a beautiful bowl. The sesame dressing adds a nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Making this salad is super easy. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. The fresh ingredients like green onions and sesame seeds add a nice crunch and depth to the dish. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal, which means less cleanup!

Let’s get to the recipe so you can whip this up in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, carrots, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
5. Enjoy your refreshing Asian chicken salad!

Tex-Mex Chicken Salad With Black Beans

This Tex-Mex chicken salad is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for those lazy cooking days. Imagine a big bowl filled with shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and fresh tomatoes. It’s vibrant and inviting, making it hard to resist. The addition of crunchy tortilla chips on the side adds a fun twist, perfect for scooping up this delicious salad.

The flavors come together beautifully, with the creaminess of the avocado balancing the zesty notes from the jalapeños. It’s a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. You can serve it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, and it’s great for meal prep too!

Let’s get into how to whip up this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado.
2. Add the chopped cilantro and jalapeño slices if using.
3. Drizzle the lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately with tortilla chips on the side or store in the fridge for later.

Simple Chicken Caesar Salad

Looking for an easy meal that packs a punch? A Chicken Caesar Salad is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing. It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes for a satisfying one-bowl meal.

The image showcases a vibrant bowl filled with fresh greens, grilled chicken slices, and golden croutons, all drizzled with a rich dressing. The addition of lemon and parsley adds a fresh touch, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Making this salad is a breeze. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for those lazy cooking days. Just gather your ingredients, toss them together, and enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lettuce: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce.
2. Add Chicken: Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the lettuce.
3. Top with Croutons: Sprinkle the croutons over the chicken.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing evenly over the salad.
5. Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Garnish: Add chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve with lemon wedges.

GET 8-WEEKS OF WORKOUTS TO LOSE INCHES

Bbq Chicken Salad With Corn

This BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn is a perfect meal for those lazy days when you want something quick yet satisfying. The vibrant colors of the salad make it visually appealing, while the combination of flavors keeps it interesting. The shredded chicken, sweet corn, and black beans come together beautifully, topped with a drizzle of BBQ sauce that adds a smoky kick.

To make this dish even easier, you can use rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and toss it in with the other ingredients. The crunchy tortilla chips add a delightful texture, making every bite enjoyable. You can serve this salad in a big bowl or divide it into individual portions for a fun family meal.

Here’s how to whip up this delicious BBQ Chicken Salad:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup tortilla chips
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup diced apples (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and chopped lettuce.
2. If using, add the diced apples for a sweet crunch.
3. Drizzle the BBQ sauce over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with tortilla chips for added crunch.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Pesto Chicken Salad With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Pesto Chicken Salad is a perfect choice for those lazy cooking days. It's fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto makes it a delightful meal. Plus, it all comes together in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

The salad features a bed of crisp greens topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and shredded chicken. The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy kick, while the pesto brings a creamy texture that ties everything together. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

To make this salad, you’ll need just a few ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Serve it on its own or with some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Add the basil pesto and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
5. Enjoy your Pesto Chicken Salad right away or store it in the fridge for later!

Southwestern Chicken Salad With Avocado

This Southwestern Chicken Salad is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. Picture a bowl filled with tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and a colorful array of fresh veggies. The bright reds and yellows of bell peppers and tomatoes pop against the green of the lettuce and avocado, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Perfect for lazy cooks, this salad comes together in just one bowl. It’s a great option for lunch or a light dinner. The combination of protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy.

To make this salad, start by grilling or pan-searing chicken breast until it’s cooked through. While the chicken is resting, chop up some lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes, and jalapeños for a bit of heat. Dice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green. Toss everything together with a simple dressing made from lime juice and olive oil for a refreshing finish.

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts until cooked through. Let them rest before dicing.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro.
3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Southwestern Chicken Salad!

Italian Chicken Salad With Olives

This Italian Chicken Salad is a perfect meal for those lazy days when you want something quick and tasty. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and briny olives creates a delightful mix of flavors. Plus, it all comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

The fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and a hint of freshness. You can use any olives you like—green, black, or a mix of both. This salad is not only easy to make but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

To make this salad, start by cooking some chicken breast. You can grill, bake, or sauté it—whatever works best for you. Once the chicken is cooked and cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Then, toss it in a bowl with halved cherry tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This salad is versatile, too! Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumbers or bell peppers if you have them on hand. Serve it on its own or with some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, green olives, black olives, and chopped parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld.

Struggling to Stay on Track with Your Eating?

You’re not alone. One of the biggest obstacles I see people face is not knowing what to eat. Between busy schedules, endless diet advice online, and trying to cook healthy meals that actually taste good—it’s easy to feel stuck or overwhelmed.

That’s why I created my 21 Quick & Easy Custom Low-Calorie Meal Plans Program. These plans are built specifically for you—your goals, your lifestyle, and your food preferences. You won’t find any cookie-cutter diets here. Just real, satisfying meals that help you stay full, energized, and on track without the stress.

✅ No more guessing.
✅ No more skipping meals or eating “diet food” you hate.
✅ Just a clear, doable plan that fits your life.

👉 Ready to eat better, feel better, and finally make progress? [Click here to get your custom meal plans today.]

---

Not Seeing the Inches Drop No Matter What You Do?

If you’re working out but still not seeing the results in the mirror, I hear you. So many people come to me after months of doing cardio or random workouts—and still struggling to lose inches or tone up. The truth is, your body needs more than just movement. It needs a proven strategy.

My 8-Week Workout Program to Lose Inches is designed to do just that—burn fat, tighten up, and give you visible results. These workouts are fun, effective, and designed for real people with real lives. Whether you’re getting back into fitness or ready to take it to the next level, this program gives you a clear path to success.

✅ Just 8 weeks to build strength, confidence, and a fitter shape.
✅ No endless cardio.
✅ No gym required (unless you want it).

👉 If you're ready to drop inches and feel amazing in your own skin, [click here to start the 8-Week Workout Program].