Watermelon Chicken Salad: A Hearty and Refreshing Meal

This Watermelon Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of refreshing, juicy watermelon and tender chicken, creating a light yet satisfying meal that’s ideal for warm days or when you’re craving something quick and flavorful. The creamy dressing adds just the right amount of tang, making every bite burst with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s a wonderful mix of textures—crispy, fresh watermelon with hearty, shredded chicken, and the subtle crunch of celery. The dressing, made with a blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice, brings everything together with a creamy, tangy finish that enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon. It’s a great dish for meal prepping, and it’s light yet filling enough to serve as a main course for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step One:
I start by combining the cubed watermelon, shredded chicken, and diced celery in a large bowl. This gives me a colorful base for the salad.

Step Two:
In a smaller bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. I make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth, tangy mixture.

Step Three:
Once the dressing is ready, I add it to the watermelon and chicken mixture. I toss everything gently to combine, making sure each piece is coated with the creamy dressing.

Step Four:
I serve the salad immediately, enjoying the light and refreshing flavors. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side dish like crispy pita chips or a green salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick meal or a light lunch.

Variations

Sometimes I like to swap out the celery for chopped cucumbers for a slightly different crunch. For an added boost of flavor, I’ve tried adding a handful of fresh mint or a sprinkle of feta cheese. If you want more texture, adding some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds gives it a nice crunch. If you want a more substantial dish, serve it over a bed of greens like arugula or spinach.

storage/reheating

Leftover watermelon chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since the watermelon can release water, it’s best to eat it fresh. If you plan to store it, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the watermelon, chicken, and celery ahead of time and store them separately. I would recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes, you can substitute watermelon with other fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical twist. They will add their own sweetness and freshness to the salad.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! While chicken works wonderfully, this salad can also be made with leftover turkey, grilled shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. It’s a perfect option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Can I make the dressing dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt and use a dairy-free mayonnaise to make the dressing completely dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Watermelon Chicken Salad is an ideal balance of refreshing sweetness and savory goodness, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s light yet filling, creamy yet crisp, and full of vibrant flavors that come together in just minutes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or serving it as a side, it’s bound to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the simplicity and delight of this tasty salad!

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