Lemony White Bean Chicken Salad

Indulge in a light and refreshing meal that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This Lemony White Bean Chicken Salad is a vibrant combination of textures and zesty citrus notes, making it an ideal choice for healthy meal prep or a breezy summer main dish.

Pin It

With a satisfying crunch from finely diced celery and red onion, this salad keeps you full without feeling heavy. The creamy white beans pair beautifully with tender shredded chicken, creating a balanced dish that highlights high-quality ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and fresh dill.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (about 2 small breasts)
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, white beans, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes (if using), parsley, and dill.

Step 2

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 3

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 4

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5

Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best flavor, do not skip the 10-minute resting period. This allows the beans and chicken to absorb the tangy lemon vinaigrette and the fresh herbs to fully infuse the salad.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra white beans or diced avocado for creaminess. You can also add extra greens by serving the salad mixed with fresh arugula or baby spinach.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is excellent served alongside crusty bread or on a fresh bed of lettuce. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé.

Pin It

Whether you're preparing this for a light lunch or a summer dinner, this protein-packed salad is a simple and delicious way to enjoy wholesome Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Enjoy it fresh or chilled for the perfect healthy meal.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish actually benefits from sitting for 10-15 minutes before serving, which allows the flavors to meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick toss before serving.

→ What type of white beans work best?

Cannellini beans are ideal due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, though Great Northern beans work beautifully as well. Both hold their shape well when tossed and complement the bright lemon vinaigrette perfectly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The celery will maintain its crunch and the beans won't get mushy. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here and will cut down on prep time. Simply shred or cube about 2 cups of meat, discarding the skin. The seasoned flavor from store-bought rotisserie chicken adds another layer of depth to the dish.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

Crusty bread or baguette slices are perfect for soaking up the extra vinaigrette. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens, stuff it into a pita pocket, or pair it with quinoa for extra protein. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or chilled rosé complements the bright citrus notes beautifully.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

This is an excellent meal prep option! The flavors develop over time, and it maintains its texture well in the refrigerator. Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.