Chicken Spinach Salad

This chicken spinach salad is a fresh, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. It brings together tender, juicy chicken with crisp baby spinach, colorful veggies, and a flavorful dressing that ties everything together. Whether I want something light but filling or a way to use up leftover chicken, this salad always hits the mark.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this salad feels healthy and hearty at the same time. The spinach gives it a nutrient-packed base, while the chicken adds lean protein to keep me full. It’s quick to throw together, and I can mix and match ingredients based on what I have in the fridge. From weekday meals to dinner parties, this salad is reliable, delicious, and always customizable.

Ingredients

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

• cooked chicken breast (grilled, roasted, or shredded)

• fresh baby spinach

• cherry tomatoes, halved

• red onion, thinly sliced

• cucumber, sliced or chopped

• avocado, sliced

• feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)

• toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds)

For the dressing:

• olive oil

• balsamic vinegar or lemon juice

• Dijon mustard

• honey or maple syrup (optional)

• salt and pepper

Directions

1. I start by preparing all the vegetables—washing and drying the spinach, slicing the tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and avocado.

2. I slice or shred the cooked chicken, making sure it’s bite-sized and ready to toss into the salad.

3. In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of sweetener if using. I season it with salt and pepper to taste.

4. In a large bowl, I layer the spinach first, then add the vegetables, chicken, cheese (if using), and nuts or seeds.

5. I drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated.

6. I serve it immediately or keep it chilled until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–3 generous servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes (if cooking the chicken fresh)
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

I often switch things up depending on what’s in my fridge. Sometimes I use grilled chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken. I’ve made it with arugula instead of spinach for a peppery bite, or added fruit like sliced apples, strawberries, or dried cranberries for sweetness. Chickpeas or hard-boiled eggs are great vegetarian alternatives if I want a meatless version.

storage/reheating

If I’m prepping ahead, I store the salad components separately from the dressing to keep the spinach fresh and crisp. Everything lasts about 3 days in airtight containers in the fridge. I don’t reheat the salad, but I let the chicken come to room temperature before adding it in if it’s been chilled. If I assemble it fully, I try to eat it the same day so the greens don’t wilt.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I often use it for convenience. It adds great flavor and saves time on cooking.

What dressing goes best with this salad?

I like a simple balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-Dijon dressing. A creamy dressing like ranch or Caesar also works well if that’s what I’m craving.

How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?

I make sure it’s completely dry before tossing the salad. I also add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Absolutely. I keep the ingredients chopped and stored separately, then assemble and dress the salad when I’m ready to eat.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the dressing and any added toppings (like croutons) are gluten-free, the salad itself is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This chicken spinach salad is one of those recipes I always have in rotation. It’s fresh, filling, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for any season or occasion. Whether I need a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this salad brings together all the best textures and flavors in a single, satisfying bowl.

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