Fresh Basil Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Parmesan Dressing

Prep: 20 minCook: 15 min6 servingsmedium
Fresh Basil Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Parmesan Dressing

A creamy chicken salad brightened with fresh basil, green onions, and a tangy buttermilk-mayo dressing enhanced with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for lunch sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens. The combination of fresh herbs and cheese creates a more sophisticated flavor than traditional chicken salad, making it ideal for casual entertaining or meal prep.

Gluten-FreeNut-FreeKeto

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, diced in 3/4 inch pieces
  • ¾ cup mayo
    Greek yogurt1:1healthyadds dairy

    slightly tangier flavor

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup buttermilk
    milk + lemon juice1 T lemon juice per 1/4 cup milkdairy

    let sit 5 minutes before using

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup green onion, sliced
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced
    cilantro or parsley1:1herb

    different flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, coarsely grated
  • salt(optional)
  • fresh ground black pepper(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    If cooking chicken, trim fat from chicken breasts and cut lengthwise into thirds

  2. 2

    Bring chicken stock, water, and herb blend to a boil in small saucepan

  3. 3

    Add chicken to boiling liquid, reduce heat to low, and simmer until cooked through

  4. 4

    Drain chicken in colander and let cool completely

  5. 5

    While chicken cools, slice basil leaves, chop green onions, and grate Parmesan

  6. 6

    Dice cooled chicken into square pieces and place in medium bowl

  7. 7

    Whisk mayo and buttermilk until smooth

  8. 8

    Stir green onion, Parmesan, and basil into mayo mixture

  9. 9

    Add dressing to chicken and mix gently until well coated

  10. 10

    Season with salt and pepper to taste

Tips

Tip 1

For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated

Tip 2

The buttermilk adds tang and helps thin the mayo for better coating

Tip 3

Add extra basil if you want a more pronounced herb flavor

Good to Know

Storage

Keep refrigerated for up to 1 day for best quality

Make Ahead

Can be made same day and chilled before serving

Serve With

Serve immediately or slightly chilled on sandwiches, in wraps, or over greens

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overdress the chicken to avoid soggy texture

Watch

Let chicken cool completely before mixing to prevent wilted herbs

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

buttermilk→
milk + lemon juice1 T lemon juice per 1/4 cup milkdairy

let sit 5 minutes before using

Full guide →

General Alternatives

mayo→
Greek yogurt1:1healthyadds dairy

slightly tangier flavor

Full guide →
basil→
cilantro or parsley1:1herb

different flavor profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Remove skin and shred or dice the meat into similar sized pieces for the best texture.

How long will this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

This salad is best eaten within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture. The basil may darken slightly after the first day.

Can I freeze this chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the mayo-based dressing will separate and the fresh herbs will lose their texture when thawed.