Looking for a healthy, delicious lunch that’s paleo-approved? This paleo chicken salad is packed with protein, crunchy veggies, and creamy, clean ingredients—no dairy, no grains, and no processed junk.
It’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a light dinner. Whether you’re following a paleo lifestyle or just want a wholesome, satisfying meal, this chicken salad is a must-try.
I am sharing this recipe with you today because I am wellness coach who has personally struggled with hormonal imbalances and inflammation issues. By changing what I ate through an anti-inflammatory diet, I was able to balance my hormones and improve my gut health.
Please note, there are affiliate links in this post. Read my privacy policy at the bottom of this page to learn more.
How To Ensure Chicken Salad is Paleo-Friendly?
When eating a Paleo diet you will want to focus on clean, whole-food ingredients. Start with cooked, unprocessed chicken without additives or breading. For the dressing, skip traditional mayo made with soybean or canola oil. Instead, use a paleo-approved version made from avocado or olive oil.
Add-ins should be fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Some examples include celery, red onion, apple slices, grapes, or almonds. Be sure your additions are unsweetened and free from preservatives. If using dried fruit, choose unsweetened and sulfite-free options.
To ensure your chicken salad is appropriate for a paleo diet, season with herbs, lemon juice, sea salt, and spices. Do not use packaged seasoning blends that may contain hidden sugars or additives.
By sticking to whole, unprocessed ingredients and skipping inflammatory oils and sugars, you’ll have a paleo chicken salad that’s healthy, satisfying, and flavorful.
Paleo Chicken Salad Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 3-4 avocados cut in half and pits removed (only cut open when ready to eat)
- 3-4 cup soy-free mayo
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground thyme
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 small green apple, diced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the chicken in water until cooked thoroughly and no longer pink.
- Keep a few teaspoons of the water and add it into a mixing bowl.
- Strain the chicken.
- Allow chicken to cool.
- Using two forks, pull apart the chicken so it is stringy and thin.
- Put all your spices in the mixing bowl that has a small amount of water and mix.
- Place mayo in the bowl and mix.
- Place chicken in the bowl and mix really well.
- Add in the diced apple and vegetables and mix again.
- Place the mixture in the fridge and allow to cool and sit for at least an hour.
- When you are ready to eat the chicken salad, halve the avocados and remove the pits.
- Fill the avocados with chicken salad and sprinkle green onions on top. Serve immediately.
Before we move on, if you are interested in eating an anti-inflammatory diet, go ahead and click the button below to get a FREE Anti-Inflammatory Diet Food List!
Now you have a new and easy Paleo lunch recipe!
Paleo chicken salad is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal perfect for those following a whole-food, grain-free lifestyle. Combining tender chicken with fresh veggies, avocado, and paleo-friendly mayonaisse creates a satisfying dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Whether for lunch, a light dinner, or meal prep, this recipe offers a healthy, protein-rich option that supports clean eating habits. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh, wholesome twist on a classic favorite!

More Paleo-friendly lunch recipes that you might like:

