Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken

Name: Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups celery, chopped; 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken because it’s a refreshing, healthy option that never lets me down. The crunchy celery balances perfectly with the juicy grilled chicken, creating a delightful combination that is both satisfying and light. I often whip this up for lunch or dinner, relishing in the fresh flavors and vibrant colors it brings to the table. It’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for busy days or laid-back weekends.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-29T22:57:28.575Z

When I first tried this Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken, I knew I had stumbled upon a real gem. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. I remember thinking how perfectly the flavors melded together after freshly grilling the chicken and tossing it with crisp celery and zingy dressing. With just a few minutes of grilling and chopping, I created a dish that tastes like sunshine on a plate!

Each time I make this salad, I experiment with varied dressings, but I always return to a classic vinaigrette. It's light yet brings out the freshness of everything else in the bowl. To make it even more delicious, I recommend marinating the chicken in herbs for about half an hour to infuse those fantastic flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch of celery combined with tender grilled chicken
Versatile ingredients that you can easily customize
Quick preparation that fits into any busy lifestyle

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The foundation of this Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken lies in fresh, high-quality ingredients. Crunchy, vibrant celery not only adds texture but also enhances the salad's refreshing profile. When selecting celery, look for crisp stalks with bright green leaves, as this guarantees maximum flavor. Fresh cherry tomatoes are another essential component; they're sweeter and juicier than their larger counterparts, providing a burst of flavor that balances the savory chicken and tangy feta.

The red onion contributes a mild yet noticeable bite that contrasts beautifully with the more delicate flavors of the salad. If red onion is too strong for your taste, consider soaking the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the mix; this softens their flavor while retaining their crunch. Opting for fresh herbs in your seasoning can also elevate the dish, giving it a lively touch that complements the grilled chicken.

Perfecting the Grilled Chicken

Grilling the chicken is pivotal for achieving that smoky, charred flavor that elevates the salad. Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high to ensure proper cooking; this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Chicken breasts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Letting the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling helps retain its juices, preventing it from being dry when sliced.

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps tenderize it. If you're short on time, simply seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder just before grilling can yield delicious results.

Creative Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on personal preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute the grilled chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. If you want to incorporate more protein, adding chickpeas or quinoa will not only provide extra nutrition but also give the dish more substance. Try toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them for an extra layer of flavor—this brings out their natural oils and enhances that nutty crunch.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Store the salad mix in an airtight container and the dressing in a jar in the refrigerator. Just combine them shortly before serving to maintain freshness. This is a great way to enjoy this salad throughout the week or to prepare it for a gathering without losing the crispness of the ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups celery, chopped
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re ready to start putting your salad together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your wonderful salad:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Season the chicken breasts with your favorite herbs, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the grill and let it rest before slicing.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, walnuts, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine.

Add Chicken

Slice the grilled chicken and lay it on top of the salad. Give it a final toss or serve the chicken on top.

Your fresh and delicious celery salad is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mix of lemon juice and herbs before grilling. This enhances the taste considerably.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken stores well, making it a great candidate for meal prepping. You can refrigerate the assembled salad for up to two days, although the celery will begin to lose its crunch after the first day. To maintain that refreshing texture, it's best to keep the chicken separate from the salad ingredients and dress the salad just before eating.

If you're preparing it for lunch, consider packing the dressing in a small container so that you can toss it just before eating. This will keep the ingredients fresh and prevent sogginess. Should you have leftovers, the salad can be transformed into a sandwich filling or wrap, adding variety to your meal throughout the week.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with this salad by incorporating seasonal vegetables or fruits. Sliced apples or pears can add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the dish. You could also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar, to suit your taste preferences.

For a spicy kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer a different dressing, a balsamic vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing can provide a delicious alternative while still aligning with the fresh, healthy focus of the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and will save you time!

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even avocado for a creamier texture.

→ How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ Can this salad be made vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with chickpeas and skip the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative.