Name: Chicken Lentil Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-493442H49M46S
Total time: PT-493442H49M46S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped); 1 1/2 cups cooked lentils (cooled); 1 cucumber (chopped); 2 medium tomatoes (chopped); 1/2 red onion (finely sliced); 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove (minced); Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Optional: feta cheese, cumin, or paprika

I like making this chicken lentil salad when I want something hearty, fresh, and packed with protein. It’s a balanced meal that combines tender chicken, earthy lentils, and crisp vegetables with a light, flavorful dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how filling yet refreshing this salad feels. The lentils add a satisfying texture, while the chicken brings extra protein to keep me full longer. I also like how easy it is to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
lentils (cooked and cooled)
cucumber (chopped)
tomatoes (chopped)
red onion (finely sliced)
fresh parsley or cilantro
olive oil
lemon juice
garlic (minced)
salt
black pepper
optional: feta cheese, cumin, or paprika

Directions

I start by cooking the lentils until tender but still slightly firm, then I let them cool completely so they hold their shape in the salad.

In a large bowl, I combine the cooked chicken, cooled lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. I mix everything gently so the ingredients stay intact.

In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing.

I pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything until well coated. I finish with fresh herbs and sometimes a sprinkle of feta cheese or spices for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 15 minutes, and cooking the lentils (if not pre-cooked) takes about 20–25 minutes, so the total time is about 35–40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use grilled chicken instead of boiled or roasted chicken for extra flavor. When I want a Mediterranean twist, I add olives and feta cheese. I also like adding roasted vegetables or swapping lemon dressing for a yogurt-based one.

storage/reheating

I store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I prefer eating it cold or at room temperature, so I don’t usually reheat it. If needed, I refresh it with a little olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

I often use canned lentils when I want to save time, and they work well if drained and rinsed.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

I like making it ahead because the flavors develop even more after resting in the fridge.

What type of chicken works best?

I usually use grilled or rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

I find it perfect for meal prep since it stays fresh for a few days and is very filling.

Can I make it vegetarian?

I sometimes skip the chicken and add chickpeas or extra lentils instead.

Conclusion

I find this chicken lentil salad to be a simple, nutritious, and versatile meal. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and works perfectly for both quick lunches and light dinners throughout the week.