Mother’s Day is all about pampering the special woman in your life with love, appreciation, and—of course—delicious food. And what better way to celebrate than with a light, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant chicken salad? Whether she enjoys classic comfort with a twist, fresh and zesty flavors, or something a little more indulgent, these 12 recipes are sure to make her feel cherished.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with crisp apples, toasted pecans, and a creamy honey-mustard dressing, or a vibrant Asian-inspired salad with sesame ginger dressing and crunchy veggies. Maybe she’d love a sophisticated tarragon and grape chicken salad served in buttery croissants or a spicy buffalo chicken version that brings a little kick to the table. From picnic-perfect wraps to elegant lettuce cups, these salads are as versatile as they are delicious—ideal for a leisurely brunch, a garden party, or a cozy at-home lunch.
We’ve included make-ahead tips, serving suggestions, and even ideas for pairing with wines or mocktails to elevate the experience. Because Mother’s Day should be as stress-free as it is special, these recipes keep things simple without skimping on flavor. So grab your mixing bowl, sharpen your knife, and let’s whip up a chicken salad that’s as unforgettable as Mom herself.
Citrus Avocado Chicken Salad
This Citrus Avocado Chicken Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that’s perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. With juicy oranges and creamy avocado, it brings a delightful balance of flavors that are both light and satisfying. Simple to whip up, it combines tender chicken with fresh greens, making it a great choice for a springtime meal.
The burst of citrus paired with the richness of avocado creates a vibrant taste experience. Easy to make and visually appealing, this salad is sure to impress your guests while keeping things casual and fun. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 large orange, segmented
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, avocado, orange segments, mixed greens, red onion, and mint leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra mint leaves and orange slices if desired.
Caprese Chicken Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This Caprese Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining juicy grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze elevates the flavors, making it a perfect springtime meal. It’s simple to prepare and packed with freshness, making it an ideal choice for Mother’s Day celebrations.
With vibrant colors and a burst of flavors, this salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or a family gathering, everyone will love this refreshing dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to mix all the ingredients together.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and tender chicken, all tossed in a savory sesame dressing. This salad brings together the crunchiness of bell peppers and cucumbers with the softness of grilled chicken, creating a perfect balance of textures. The light and refreshing flavors make it a fantastic choice for a Mother’s Day brunch or any spring gathering.
Easy to prepare, this salad is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. It’s a great way to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it as a main dish or as a side, and watch everyone go for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red or yellow)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add the diced chicken to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving for added crunch.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy fresh!
Tropical Pineapple Chicken Salad
Bring a taste of the tropics to your Mother’s Day celebration with this delightful Tropical Pineapple Chicken Salad. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a zesty dressing creates a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a stress-free option for your special day.
This chicken salad is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, especially when served in a hollowed-out pineapple. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, and the crunchy veggies add a nice texture. Your family will love this vibrant dish that brings a tropical flair to the table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, and green onions.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
- If desired, fold in the chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
- Serve the salad in a hollowed pineapple or on a bed of greens. Enjoy!
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Apples
This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Apples is a delightful mix of flavors that’s perfect for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner. The sweetness of apples pairs beautifully with the tangy honey mustard dressing, creating a balance that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days or special occasions like Mother’s Day.
The combination of tender chicken, crisp apples, and vibrant greens not only tastes great but also looks stunning on the table. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or just a casual meal at home, this salad is sure to impress everyone!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 large apple, cored and chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped apple, and walnuts.
- Add the mixed greens and drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the top.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for a cooler salad.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of the region. With juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, it’s a fresh and satisfying dish ideal for Mother’s Day or any occasion. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for a laid-back meal.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, feta cheese, mixed greens, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Creamy Dill Chicken Salad with Grapes
Looking for a refreshing dish to serve this Mother’s Day? This Creamy Dill Chicken Salad with Grapes is a fantastic choice! Combining tender chicken with a creamy dressing, fresh herbs, and juicy grapes creates a delightful flavor explosion that is both satisfying and light. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for a busy brunch or a relaxed afternoon gathering.
The sweet crunch of grapes pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and the aromatic dill, giving each bite a burst of freshness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served on its own, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens. Everyone will love this dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup grapes, halved (red and green for color)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, halved grapes, and chopped celery.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently to combine until everything is coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or as is. Enjoy!
Southwestern Chicken Salad with Black Beans
This Southwestern Chicken Salad is a vibrant and tasty dish, perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. With its combination of juicy chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and crunchy bell peppers, each bite bursts with freshness. The ingredients come together to create a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and light, making it easy to enjoy during a spring gathering.
This recipe is simple to whip up and can even be made ahead of time. Just toss everything together and serve chilled! It’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the Southwest while keeping things healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, fresh or canned
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins
This curried chicken salad with raisins is a delightful mix of flavors that brings a sunny twist to your table. The warm spices of curry blend perfectly with tender chicken and the sweet pop of raisins, making it a refreshing dish perfect for any gathering, especially Mother’s Day.
It’s simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Serve it on a bed of greens or as a filling for sandwiches, and enjoy a dish that’s both tasty and satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds or cashews
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the Chicken: Fold in the diced chicken, ensuring it is well coated with the dressing.
- Incorporate the Add-Ins: Gently mix in the raisins, chopped celery, and nuts for added crunch.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss again before serving, and enjoy your curried chicken salad on a bed of greens or in a sandwich.
Spinach and Strawberry Chicken Salad
This Spinach and Strawberry Chicken Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sweet strawberries creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone feeling satisfied yet not too heavy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great choice for a busy day.
The vibrant colors and textures of this salad not only make it visually appealing but also provide a burst of taste with each bite. The tangy dressing complements the sweetness of the strawberries while the walnuts add a nice crunch. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can impress any guest!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, diced chicken, and sliced strawberries.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Mediterranean Quinoa Chicken Salad
This Mediterranean Quinoa Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and textures. It combines juicy chicken with quinoa, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for those sunny days, this salad is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for Mother’s Day celebrations.
The salad offers a balance of protein from the chicken and quinoa, complemented by the freshness of cherry tomatoes and herbs. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon add a zest that brings all the ingredients together, making each bite refreshing. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful dish bursting with fresh flavors. The juicy, grilled chicken pairs beautifully with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion like Mother’s Day. Simple to prepare, it can be whipped up in no time, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones.
The combination of tender chicken, crisp greens, and a tangy dressing creates a refreshing meal that pleases everyone. Serve it as a light lunch or dinner that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the Chicken: Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy this fresh and zesty salad immediately, drizzled with your favorite dressing if desired.
Final Thoughts
A great chicken salad is more than just a meal—it’s a gesture of love, a way to show Mom she deserves something fresh, satisfying, and made just for her. Whether she prefers timeless flavors or something bold and new, these 12 recipes offer the perfect mix of simplicity and celebration. So pick her favorite, add a personal touch, and get ready to serve up a Mother’s Day dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Happy cooking—and happy Mother’s Day!