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Dijon Almond Low Carb Chicken Salad - Creamy, Crunchy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked chicken (about 4 cups), chopped or shredded
  • Celery, finely diced (2–3 ribs)
  • Red onion or shallot, finely minced (2–3 tablespoons)
  • Sliced almonds (1/2 cup), lightly toasted if possible
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons)
  • Mayonnaise (1/2 to 3/4 cup)
  • Dijon mustard (1–2 tablespoons)
  • Lemon juice (1–2 tablespoons), plus zest if you like
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon), optional for silkier texture
  • Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon) or 1 small grated garlic clove
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika or smoked paprika (pinch), optional
  • Romaine or butter lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
  • Cucumber or avocado for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Use leftover roast chicken or a rotisserie chicken. Chop or shred into bite-size pieces. You want about 4 cups. If cooking from scratch, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and poach or roast until just cooked through, then cool completely before chopping.
  2. Toast the almonds (optional but recommended): Add sliced almonds to a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir often for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove to a plate to cool. This step deepens flavor and keeps them crunchy.
  3. Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, olive oil (if using), garlic powder, a pinch of paprika, and a few grinds of black pepper. Taste and adjust. You want a bright, creamy balance with a gentle Dijon bite.
  4. Add the crunchy elements: Stir in the celery, red onion, and parsley. Mix to coat evenly in the dressing.
  5. Fold in the chicken: Add the chicken and toss gently until everything is well coated. If it looks dry, add another spoonful of mayo or a splash of lemon juice.
  6. Finish with almonds: Fold in most of the almonds, reserving a few for garnish. Taste again and season with salt and more pepper if needed.
  7. Chill and serve: For best flavor, chill for at least 20–30 minutes. Serve in lettuce cups, spooned over greens, tucked into low-carb wraps, or alongside sliced cucumber and avocado. Garnish with the remaining almonds.