24+ Delicious Summer Cold Chicken Recipes to Beat the Heat

As the summer sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in a hot kitchen preparing meals.

But with the right ingredients, you can create delicious, refreshing, and satisfying cold chicken dishes that are perfect for those warm days.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing lunch for a picnic, or just looking for a quick meal to enjoy at home, these 24+ summer cold chicken recipes offer a variety of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits.

From light salads to hearty bowls, these recipes are sure to keep you feeling refreshed and nourished without the hassle of heating up the kitchen.

In this post, we’ll explore an array of cold chicken recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and fresh ingredients.

No matter your dietary preferences or the occasion, you’ll find something perfect for your summer menu.

So, let’s dive into these delicious and healthy summer cold chicken recipes!

24+ Delicious Summer Cold Chicken Recipes to Beat the Heat

Summer is the season of simplicity, and nothing makes a hot day more enjoyable than a cool, flavorful meal.

These 24+ summer cold chicken recipes provide plenty of options for easy-to-make dishes that are full of fresh ingredients, perfect for satisfying your hunger without turning on the stove.

From tangy salads to hearty bowls and refreshing wraps, these recipes are versatile enough to suit any occasion or dietary need.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a quick meal for yourself, these cold chicken recipes will be your go-to for keeping things light, healthy, and delicious all summer long.

Lemon Herb Cold Chicken Salad

Bright, zesty, and refreshingly light, this lemon herb chicken salad is a go-to summer favorite. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a chilled main dish on warm evenings.

The fresh herbs and citrus add vibrant flavor without weighing you down.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, red onion, celery, parsley, and dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve chilled, either on a bed of greens, in lettuce cups, or with crackers.

This chicken salad offers a clean and herbaceous taste that’s ideal for hot days.

The lemon brightens every bite, and the herbs give it a garden-fresh feel, making it an excellent dish for summer gatherings.

Asian Sesame Cold Chicken Noodle Bowl

Combining chilled noodles, tender chicken, and a tangy sesame dressing, this Asian-inspired bowl is both satisfying and refreshing.

It’s perfect for when you’re craving something substantial but still want to keep things cool and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, thinly sliced
• 6 oz soba or rice noodles
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Sesame Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the sesame dressing ingredients.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the noodles, chicken, carrots, cucumber, green onions, and sesame seeds.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss well to combine.
5. Chill for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro.

This dish is a chilled fusion of textures and tastes.

The sesame dressing gives it a rich, nutty aroma, while the fresh vegetables and chicken create a hearty yet cool experience perfect for lunch or dinner on hot summer days.

Mediterranean Cold Chicken Pita Pockets

Loaded with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy tzatziki, these Mediterranean pita pockets offer a deliciously cooling escape from the summer heat.

They’re portable, colorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
• 4 whole wheat pita pockets
• Fresh mint or oregano (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.
2. Add tzatziki sauce and gently fold to combine.
3. Cut pita pockets in half and carefully fill each with the chilled chicken mixture.
4. Sprinkle with fresh mint or oregano if desired.
5. Serve immediately or wrap and chill for on-the-go meals.

Every bite of these pita pockets is a refreshing celebration of Mediterranean flavor.

With creamy tzatziki and bursts of cucumber and tomato, it’s like a Greek summer vacation in sandwich form — and ideal for both lunchboxes and outdoor dining.

Cold Chicken and Mango Salad

This sweet and savory chicken salad with fresh mango is a perfect balance of flavors for summer.

The tropical fruit adds a burst of sweetness, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein punch. It’s ideal for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner option when it’s too hot to cook.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed salad greens

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mango, red bell pepper, onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and mango mixture, tossing gently to coat.
4. Serve over a bed of mixed salad greens or enjoy as is for a lighter option.

The combination of juicy mango and the tangy lime dressing elevates this salad to a new level of deliciousness.

It’s light yet satisfying and has just the right amount of sweetness to make it a refreshing summer favorite.

Cold Chicken Avocado Wraps

These cold chicken and avocado wraps are a great way to keep things fresh and healthy this summer.

With creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and tender chicken all wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla, these wraps are filling and flavorful, making them perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup lettuce or spinach
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 whole grain tortillas

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt or mayo with the lemon juice, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Lay the tortillas flat and spread a thin layer of the yogurt dressing in the center.
3. Layer the chicken slices, avocado, shredded carrots, cucumber, and lettuce or spinach on top.
4. Roll up the wraps tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
5. Slice the wraps into halves and serve immediately, or wrap them in plastic and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

These wraps are wonderfully creamy from the avocado and tangy from the yogurt dressing.

They offer the perfect blend of textures with each bite — crisp veggies, tender chicken, and smooth avocado — making it a delicious, portable meal for any summer occasion.

Cold Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A twist on the classic Caesar salad, this pasta version incorporates tender chicken and a creamy dressing for a hearty but still refreshing dish.

It’s the perfect side dish for BBQs or a light lunch that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Add croutons and fresh parsley, and toss again until everything is well mixed.
4. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This Caesar pasta salad is the ideal chilled dish for summer.

The creamy dressing coats the pasta and chicken perfectly, while the croutons add a satisfying crunch. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether served as a side or a main.

Cold Chicken and Cucumber Bites

These refreshing chicken and cucumber bites are an easy, no-cook option for a light summer appetizer or snack.

The crisp cucumber acts as the perfect vessel for the seasoned chicken, creating a simple yet flavorful bite-sized dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into thick rounds

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
2. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Garnish with additional dill or a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.

These cool, bite-sized snacks offer a delightful contrast of textures, with the creamy chicken mixture paired with the crisp cucumber.

They’re perfect for a light appetizer at a barbecue or as a refreshing snack during a hot summer day.

Cold Chicken Taco Salad

A fun and vibrant salad with all the flavors of your favorite taco in a cool, refreshing form.

This cold chicken taco salad is loaded with crisp vegetables, seasoned chicken, and topped with a tangy dressing for a complete meal that’s quick to make and perfect for a summer day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup tortilla chips, crushed
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, black beans, corn, and cheddar cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crushed tortilla chips and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for an even more chilled experience.

This taco salad is a fun way to enjoy a cooler version of a traditional taco, with all the crispy textures, fresh ingredients, and zesty flavors.

It’s easy to customize, and the dressing ties everything together for a satisfying dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Cold Chicken and Pesto Pasta Salad

This cold chicken and pesto pasta salad is a delicious and aromatic dish with vibrant flavors that are perfect for any summer meal.

The creamy pesto and tender chicken bring a delightful richness, while the pasta makes it hearty enough to serve as a meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
• 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or rotini work best)
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts.
2. Add the pesto sauce and toss everything together until well-coated.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This pesto pasta salad is bursting with flavor, thanks to the fresh basil pesto, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts.

It’s a great dish for meal prep or a crowd-pleasing side at a summer picnic, offering both richness and freshness in every bite.

Cold Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

This wholesome chicken and quinoa bowl combines lean protein with nutrient-packed quinoa and fresh vegetables.

The refreshing citrus dressing adds a burst of flavor, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for lunch or dinner on hot days.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cubed chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and fresh parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cumin (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and quinoa mixture, tossing gently to combine.
4. Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

This cold chicken and quinoa bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.

The quinoa provides fiber and protein, while the fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect meal for those warm summer afternoons.

Cold Chicken Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Packed with Mediterranean flavors, this couscous salad features tender chicken, olives, feta cheese, and tangy dressing.

It’s a quick, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a light dinner or lunch that can be made ahead and served chilled.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup cooked couscous
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked couscous, olives, feta cheese, cucumber, red onion, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Mediterranean couscous salad offers a refreshing and flavorful take on the classic chicken salad.

The combination of briny olives, creamy feta, and the zesty dressing makes it a standout dish for summer lunches or picnics.

Cold Chicken and Avocado Salsa

This cold chicken and avocado salsa is a deliciously fresh dish with a bit of a twist.

The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with tender chicken and zesty salsa ingredients, making it a perfect dip or topping for chips, tacos, or even just enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled, either as a dip with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or alongside a fresh salad.

This dish offers a vibrant and fresh combination of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and juicy tomatoes, making it a light and refreshing choice for summer meals.

It’s versatile enough to be served as a dip, a topping, or even a stand-alone dish for a light lunch.

Cold Chicken and Roasted Vegetable Salad

This hearty yet cooling salad combines juicy chicken with roasted vegetables, making it perfect for those who want something a bit more substantial but still fresh and light.

The roasted veggies bring depth and flavor to this dish, while the cool chicken adds a protein-packed punch.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 cup roasted zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup roasted red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh basil and serve chilled or at room temperature.

This cold chicken and roasted vegetable salad offers a satisfying mix of flavors.

The sweetness from the roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tangy feta and the richness of the balsamic vinegar, making it a unique and satisfying dish for any summer meal.

Cold Chicken Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh is a fresh, zesty Mediterranean salad, and when combined with cold chicken, it turns into a refreshing and protein-packed dish.

It’s light, healthy, and perfect for a cooling lunch or picnic on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup cooked bulgur wheat (or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, bulgur wheat, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This tabbouleh-inspired salad with chicken offers a light yet flavorful meal.

The fresh herbs and zesty lemon give it a bright flavor, while the bulgur and chicken provide a satisfying texture and protein boost. It’s a great option for a quick, nutritious summer meal.

Cold Chicken Cabbage Wraps

These cabbage wraps are a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional wraps, packed with tender chicken and crunchy veggies.

The crisp cabbage acts as a refreshing and light wrapper, while the filling inside is both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or almond butter for a different flavor)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 8 large cabbage leaves (for wraps)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey to make the dressing.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded carrots, cucumber, red cabbage, and cilantro.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf and fold the sides over to wrap.
5. Serve chilled, and enjoy as a light and healthy meal or snack.

These cold chicken cabbage wraps are refreshing, crunchy, and full of flavor.

The peanut sauce adds a nice creamy, savory note that contrasts beautifully with the crisp cabbage and fresh vegetables. They’re great as a healthy lunch, snack, or light dinner on hot days.

Cold Chicken and Apple Slaw

A refreshing slaw with a twist, this cold chicken and apple salad is crunchy, sweet, and savory.

The apples provide a burst of natural sweetness, while the chicken offers a hearty protein boost. It’s a wonderful side dish for barbecues or a light meal for those hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 apple, julienned (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup celery, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, apple, cabbage, carrots, and celery.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

This chicken and apple slaw is a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the crispness of the apples and the crunch of the cabbage and carrots.

The creamy dressing ties everything together for a light and refreshing summer dish.

Cold Chicken Caesar Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter twist on the classic Caesar salad, these chicken Caesar lettuce wraps are a perfect summer meal.

Crisp lettuce wraps replace heavy bread or croutons, making this dish a healthy and refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of Caesar salad in a cool, easy-to-eat form.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup croutons, crushed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 8 large Romaine lettuce leaves (for wraps)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
2. Lay out the Romaine lettuce leaves on a plate.
3. Spoon the chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf and top with grated Parmesan, crushed croutons, and fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for a more refreshing experience.

These chicken Caesar lettuce wraps are light, crisp, and full of the flavors you love from a traditional Caesar salad.

The lettuce gives a satisfying crunch, while the creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan bring all the richness of the classic dish in a healthier form.

Cold Chicken and Avocado Chickpea Salad

This protein-packed, hearty salad combines creamy avocado, tender chicken, and chickpeas for a filling yet light summer meal.

It’s great for meal prep and perfect for those looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and full of vibrant, fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chickpeas, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This cold chicken and avocado chickpea salad is rich in protein and healthy fats while being refreshing and satisfying.

The creamy avocado and zesty lime dressing balance perfectly with the hearty chickpeas and tender chicken, making it a great choice for a light summer lunch or dinner.

Cold Chicken and Pineapple Salad

This tropical-inspired chicken salad combines sweet, juicy pineapple with tender chicken and a refreshing citrus dressing.

The burst of fruity flavors makes this dish perfect for a light and vibrant summer meal or a refreshing side to any BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and pineapple mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

This cold chicken and pineapple salad is a sweet and savory treat that’s light yet flavorful.

The pineapple adds a tropical sweetness that perfectly balances the tender chicken and the zesty lime dressing, making it an ideal choice for a warm summer day.

Cold Chicken and Broccoli Slaw

This crunchy, healthy slaw features cold chicken paired with broccoli slaw mix and a tangy dressing.

It’s a light but filling dish, perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic side dish. The mix of crunchy vegetables and savory chicken gives it a satisfying texture.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli slaw mix
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional for sweetness)

Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli slaw mix, shredded carrots, sunflower seeds, and raisins (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This cold chicken and broccoli slaw is crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor.

The honey and apple cider vinegar dressing adds a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and the sunflower seeds add a nice crunch to the mix. It’s an easy-to-make, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for summer.

Cold Chicken and Sweet Corn Salad

This sweet corn and chicken salad is a light, flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with tender chicken and a zesty vinaigrette.

The addition of fresh herbs brings a fragrant, bright element to the dish, making it perfect for a warm summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels, cooked and cooled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the chicken and corn mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

This cold chicken and sweet corn salad is both satisfying and refreshing.

The sweet corn adds a burst of flavor, while the vinaigrette brings a zesty tang that enhances the overall taste. It’s a quick, healthy dish that can be served as a main or side for any summer occasion.

Cold Chicken and Mango Avocado Salad

This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of avocado and the savory chicken, all topped with a zesty lime dressing.

It’s a fresh, tropical-inspired dish that works as a side or a light main course.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken, diced mango, avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

This cold chicken and mango avocado salad is a refreshing, light dish perfect for hot summer days.

The mango and avocado create a creamy, sweet contrast with the savory chicken, while the lime dressing adds a touch of citrusy brightness.

Cold Chicken and Pesto Zucchini Noodles

For a light and healthy twist on pasta, zucchini noodles are paired with tender chicken and fresh pesto for a delicious, no-cook meal that’s perfect for the summer.

This dish is low-carb, full of flavor, and can be made ahead for a quick meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 large zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (or use a vegetable peeler)
• 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and zucchini noodles.
2. Add the pesto and toss to coat the noodles and chicken evenly.
3. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and pine nuts (if using).
4. Garnish with fresh basil and serve chilled.

This cold chicken and pesto zucchini noodles dish is light, fresh, and packed with flavor.

The pesto adds a burst of richness, while the zucchini noodles provide a satisfying texture without the heaviness of traditional pasta. It’s a perfect meal for those hot summer nights when you want something refreshing and healthy.

Cold Chicken and Cucumber Dill Salad

This cucumber dill salad is a refreshing and cooling option, with crisp cucumbers, fresh dill, and tender chicken, all tossed together in a creamy, tangy dressing.

It’s an easy, light meal that’s perfect for a hot day or a side at any summer gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cucumber, dill, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and cucumber mixture and toss to combine.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This cold chicken and cucumber dill salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for those warm summer days.

The creamy dressing brings a rich contrast to the crisp cucumber, while the dill adds a fresh, herby note that complements the chicken beautifully.