Fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. It comes together quickly and makes a satisfying lunch or light dinner you’ll genuinely look forward to.
This recipe has quickly become a go-to for me. It’s a fun twist on my classic chicken salad with grapes and my apple chicken salad—two staples that always earn great feedback. Chicken salad is incredibly versatile, and this honey mustard version is no exception. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates the ideal balance of sweetness and zip, while crunchy celery, green onions, and nuts add the perfect bite in every spoonful.
It’s one of those simple dishes I rely on when I want something refreshing yet filling. Sometimes I enjoy it scooped onto crackers for a quick snack, stacked on a sandwich for lunch, or served over fresh greens when I want something lighter. No matter how you serve it, this chicken salad is always a hit.
Ingredients
Method
Notes
This recipe has been updated as of July 2025.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 apple, chopped into small pieces, about 1/2 cup
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion or chives (optional)
- 1/4 cup plain nonfat Greek Yogurt or sub mayo
- 2 tablespoons mayo or additional Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste (I used 1/4 teaspoon salt and a dash of pepper)
Keto Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Chicken (3 cups / ~1 lb):
You can use shredded or cubed chicken. Rotisserie, canned, or precooked chicken works great when you want to save time. - Celery (½ cup):
Adds a fresh crunch to the salad. Make sure it’s finely chopped for the best texture. - Green Onion (⅓ cup):
Provides mild sharpness that balances the sweetness of the honey. - Dried Cranberries (⅓ cup):
Craisins or any other dried fruit add a pop of sweetness and chewiness. - Chopped Almonds or Pecans (⅓ cup):
Adds crunch and richness. Pecans give a sweeter taste; almonds give a nutty, firmer texture. - Greek Yogurt & Mayonnaise (½ cup each):
You can use half and half for a rich and creamy dressing, or substitute one for the other depending on your preference. - Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp):
Gives the dressing its tangy depth—avoid using yellow mustard, as it changes the flavor profile. - Honey (1 tbsp):
Adds natural sweetness and balances the mustard. - Salt & Pepper:
Season to taste. Start small—add more if needed.
SERVING INSTRUCTIONS
- Serve the salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Enjoy it with:
- Toasted bread
- Crackers
- Lettuce wraps
- Tortillas (as a wrap)
- Over a bed of mixed greens
- Perfect for lunches, picnics, summer meals, or quick family dinners.
TIPS
- Make Ahead:
This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors combine. - More Sweetness?
Add extra honey or more cranberries. - More Tanginess?
Add another ½ tablespoon of dijon mustard. - Healthier Version:
Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo. - Extra Creaminess:
Add 1–2 tablespoons of sour cream. - Nut-Free Option:
Skip the nuts or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds. - Texture Tip:
Don’t over-shred the chicken—small chunks hold the dressing better.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (Approx. per serving — 5 servings total)
- Calories: 330–360 kcal
- Protein: 23–26 g
- Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
- Fat: 20–24 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
- Sugar: 6–8 g
- Sodium: Depends on added salt and rotisserie chicken, approx. 350–450 mg
FAQ’s
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken works well and makes the recipe even quicker.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Not recommended—dairy-based dressings separate when frozen.
4. Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes. Replace Greek yogurt and mayo with a dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo.
5. Can I use regular mustard instead of dijon?
You can, but the flavor will be less sharp and slightly sweeter.
