If you are craving a dish that is as vibrant in flavor as it is nourishing, the Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe is about to become your go-to favorite. This salad brings together tender chicken breast with a luscious, herb-packed green goddess dressing made creamy with Greek yogurt. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of fresh herbs, a zing of lemon, and a hint of garlic that transforms your usual chicken salad into something truly extraordinary. Whether you want a quick lunch or a light dinner packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, this recipe checks all the boxes with ease and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect balance of creamy and fresh in the Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe. Each component plays an essential role: fresh herbs add brightness and color, Greek yogurt provides creaminess and a protein boost, and crunchy veggies lend texture and bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded: Using lean chicken delivers a hearty dose of protein while keeping the salad light.
- 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt: This makes the dressing creamy and tangy, plus it’s packed with protein to keep you full.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves: Parsley adds a clean, peppery note and vibrant green color.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Basil brings a sweet and slightly spicy aroma that elevates the herb mix.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives: Chives offer a subtle onion flavor and a hint of freshness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon or dill: Either herb adds a distinctive depth — tarragon with its anise-like quality or dill’s bright, grassy tones.
- 1 small garlic clove: Garlic injects a punch of savory warmth.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lemon juice provides zesty brightness to cut through the creamy dressing.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil smooths the dressing and adds healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Mustard gives a gentle tang and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and balances the dressing.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced: Celery provides a satisfying crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Red onion contributes a mild sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional): Capers add bursts of briny tang, perfect if you want an extra punch.
How to Make Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Green Goddess Dressing
Start by combining the Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, chives, tarragon (or dill), garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, creating that quintessentially fresh and herbaceous green goddess dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; this dressing is the heart of the salad, so don’t be shy about making it zingy and flavorful.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the finely chopped cooked chicken, diced celery, red onion, and capers if you’re using them. The crisp celery and sharp onion add a wonderful crunch and balance to the luscious dressing. This combination ensures every bite has varied textures and layers of flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the green goddess dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until every bit of chicken and veggie is coated in that creamy, herb-packed magic. Once combined, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully so that you get maximum freshness and complexity when you serve.
How to Serve Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually stunning and flavorful finish, sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A few lemon zest curls can also brighten up the dish and amplify the fresh, sunny character of the salad.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy whole grain crackers, lightly toasted sourdough slices, or a crisp green side salad to keep things light and refreshing. A cup of vegetable soup or a bowl of fresh fruit can also complement the meal perfectly when you want something more substantial.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe inside crisp lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb option. Alternatively, scoop it onto toasted English muffins for an open-faced sandwich, or pile generously over a bed of mixed greens for a colorful, satisfying bowl meal that feels like a celebration of fresh ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or grabbing a quick, protein-packed bite during a busy week.
Freezing
Since the salad contains fresh herbs and yogurt-based dressing, freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and flavor. To enjoy this salad at its best, always serve it fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If needed, let refrigerated leftovers sit out for a few minutes before eating to soften the chicken slightly, but avoid heating as it affects the creamy texture and freshness of the green goddess dressing.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while delivering tender, flavorful chicken. Just make sure to finely chop or shred the meat before mixing it into the salad.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you prefer, skyr, a high-protein Icelandic dairy product, makes a great alternative that offers a similar creamy texture and protein content. Plain cottage cheese blended smooth is another option if you want to experiment.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid serving it with bread or crackers containing gluten. It’s a great choice for gluten-sensitive eaters looking for a nutritious meal.
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
While the original recipe centers on chicken for high protein, you can swap the chicken for chickpeas or firm tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version. Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative to maintain that creamy dressing texture.
How can I add more crunch to this salad?
Adding toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts, or sprinkling in some sunflower seeds, will introduce delightful crunchiness and extra nutrients. Just toss them in at the end to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together in a flash. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, brimming with fresh, vibrant herb flavors, and delivers satisfying protein without any fuss. Whether you’re packing lunch or craving a light dinner, this salad has a wonderful way of making you feel good inside and out. Dive in and enjoy every delightful bite!
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Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a high-protein, flavorful dish combining tender cooked chicken breast with a creamy, herb-packed Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or light dinner, this no-cook recipe blends fresh herbs, lemon, and Dijon mustard for a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Green Goddess Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon or dill
- 1 small garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Add the Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, chives, tarragon, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to a food processor or blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the finely chopped or shredded chicken breast with the diced celery, red onion, and capers if using.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared green goddess dressing over the chicken mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on whole grain bread, in lettuce wraps, or over a bed of mixed greens for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- For even higher protein content, substitute Greek yogurt with skyr.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep.
