Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad

Name: Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, chopped; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 cups mixed greens; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Lunch Recipes

I love making Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad because it's a vibrant dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. The bold, smoky paprika elevates the taste of tender chicken, combined with crisp veggies and a creamy dressing. It's not only delicious, but it also comes together in a snap, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether served on its own or in a sandwich, this salad packs a punch and keeps me coming back for seconds. It's a dish I'm proud to serve to family and friends!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:38:18.869Z

When I first made this Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad, I was amazed at how a simple spice could transform the dish. The smokiness gives the chicken a depth of flavor that turns a regular salad into something extraordinary. I always opt for grilled chicken, which adds a fantastic char while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Using fresh, colorful veggies not only enhances the appearance but also provides a wonderful crunch. I often experiment with different greens and toppings, but this combination has become a favorite. If you want to add an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce in the dressing works wonders!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold, smoky flavor that excites the palate
Crisp vegetables add freshness and crunch
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

Understanding Smoky Paprika

Smoked paprika is the star ingredient of this recipe, imparting a rich, deep flavor that transforms the chicken salad. This spice comes from pimiento peppers, which are smoked and dried before being ground into a fine powder. When choosing smoked paprika, look for varieties labeled 'pimentón de la Vera' for a more authentic taste. The warmth and depth it brings to the dish complement the freshness of the vegetables beautifully, creating a balanced and exciting flavor profile.

The creaminess from the Greek yogurt in the dressing not only adds a layer of richness but also balances the smoky notes of the paprika. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream or heavy mayonnaise as it provides a tangy flavor while being lower in calories. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily substitute the Greek yogurt with silken tofu blended until smooth or a dairy-free yogurt to maintain the salad's creaminess.

Fresh Vegetable Choices

Selecting fresh, vibrant vegetables is crucial for creating a delicious Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad. Choose bell peppers that are firm and brightly colored, and opt for cucumbers that have a crisp skin. The cherry tomatoes should be plump and juicy, adding a burst of sweetness that balances the other flavors. If you prefer other veggies, feel free to substitute with radishes or avocado, which would add different textures and flavors to the salad.

To ensure your salad remains crunchy, it's best to prepare the vegetables right before mixing them with the dressing. If you need to prep ahead of time, keep the veggies stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, but add them to the salad the same day to maintain their freshness. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cut vegetables can help keep them vibrant and prevent browning when ready to serve.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started!

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, chopped
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups mixed greens

For the Dressing

1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to put it all together!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your salad!

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Place mixed greens on a platter and top with the chicken salad. Serve immediately for a fresh taste.

Enjoy your delicious Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in a mixture of olive oil, smoked paprika, and herbs.

Prep and Storage Tips

This Smoky Paprika Chicken Salad is an excellent meal prep option; you can prepare the chicken and dressing ahead of time, and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to toss everything together with the mixed greens right before serving to avoid wilting. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and consume within two days for the best texture and flavor.

If you're making this salad for a larger gathering, scaling up the ingredients is straightforward. Simply maintain the same ratios; for example, if you need to double the recipe, increase each ingredient accordingly. This salad is also a hit at picnics or potlucks and is best served chilled, so consider making it a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken salad can be enjoyed on its own, but don't hesitate to experiment with different serving styles! It pairs wonderfully as a filling for whole grain wraps or stuffed inside pita pockets for a convenient on-the-go meal. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to create a heartier dish, adding extra nutrients and fiber.

For a pop of flavor, garnish the salad with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese can also provide a delightful saltiness that complements the smoky flavors of the dressing and chicken. If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or drizzling some hot sauce over the top just before serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for using up leftover grilled or roasted chicken.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.