Air Fryer Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is a beloved classic, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and versatile. This recipe elevates the traditional dish by using an air fryer to cook the chicken, resulting in a healthier and more convenient preparation method. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delicious filling for sandwiches and wraps, this air fryer chicken salad recipe has you covered. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this dish is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (optional)
  • 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly and then shred it using two forks or chop it into small pieces.
  5. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined.
  6. Add Mix-Ins: Stir in the diced celery, red onion, and pickle relish (if using).
  7. Combine: Add the shredded chicken to the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. If using, add the chopped hard-boiled egg.
  8. Serve: You can serve the chicken salad on bread as a sandwich, on crackers, or over a bed of lettuce for a lighter option.

Enjoy your homemade air fryer chicken salad!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: ~310 kcal
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Fat: ~22g
  • Saturated Fat: ~4g
  • Carbohydrates: ~4g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sugars: ~2g
  • Cholesterol: ~120mg
  • Sodium: ~500mg