Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) is a delightful twist on the classic chicken salad. It combines creamy homemade Green Goddess dressing with rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and nutritious meal ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weekday lunches or as a refreshing dish at gatherings, this salad stands out with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the freshness of herbs and the creaminess of yogurt while keeping your protein intake high!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Packed with protein: With shredded chicken and Greek yogurt, this dish is not only tasty but also high in protein.
• Versatile ingredients: Customize your salad by adding optional veggies like green onions or cucumbers for extra crunch.
• Healthy fats: The avocado and olive oil provide healthy fats that keep you satisfied longer.
• Flavorful dressing: The homemade Green Goddess dressing adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein), you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline the preparation process and ensure everything is mixed perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or high-speed blender: These appliances make blending the dressing quick and easy, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dressing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken ((480g, 16oz))
• optional: green onion, red onion, or chopped cucumber
• 1 medium avocado ((150g))
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat) ((228g), or yogurt of choice)
• 1 cup fresh parsley ((60g))
• ½ cup fresh dill, loosely packed ((4g))
• ½ cup fresh mint ((12g))
• 1 cup baby spinach
• ⅓ cup lemon juice ((80ml) about 1½ large lemons)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil ((30ml))
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ tsp salt ((3g), more to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 Tbsp water (optional to thin it out)

How to Make Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

Step 1: Shred Your Chicken

To start, shred the rotisserie chicken. You can do this by pulsing it in a food processor or using two forks, depending on how fine you want the pieces to be.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In your food processor or high-speed blender, combine all dressing ingredients:
1. Add Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth for about 2–3 minutes.
3. If necessary, add water slowly to achieve your desired dressing consistency.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the shredded chicken.
2. Pour the creamy Green Goddess dressing over the chicken.
3. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is coated well.

Step 4: Optional Additions

For added texture and flavor:
Stir in green onions, red onion, cucumber, or even mashed white beans if you like!

Now you have a deliciously healthy meal ready to serve! Enjoy your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) as part of lunch or dinner!

How to Serve Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, there are numerous serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh mixed greens like arugula or romaine. This adds extra crunch and nutrients.

In a Wrap

• Use whole-grain or gluten-free wraps to create a delicious chicken salad wrap. Add some extra veggies for added flavor and texture.

With Whole Grain Crackers

• Pair the salad with whole grain crackers for a satisfying crunch. This makes for an easy snack or appetizer option.

Stuffed in Avocado Halves

• Hollow out avocado halves and fill them with the chicken salad. This creates a healthy and visually appealing dish.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Use your favorite bread to make a hearty sandwich. Toast the bread for added flavor, and consider adding lettuce or tomato slices.

Topped on Rice Cakes

• Spread the chicken salad over rice cakes for a low-carb option that still delivers flavor and protein.

How to Perfect Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

To achieve the best version of your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and mint intensify flavors. Don’t skip on these ingredients for a vibrant taste.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: Start with less water in your dressing. Add more gradually if you prefer it thinner.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste before you plate it up. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for optimal flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes enhances flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your salad with extras like nuts, seeds, or different veggies based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes makes a perfect complement.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Roasted seasonal vegetables add warmth and texture; try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast; season them with paprika or garlic powder.
4. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad brings sweetness; combine berries, melons, and citrus for variety.
5. Chickpea Hummus – Serve with veggie sticks like carrots or celery for dipping; this combo adds fiber and protein.
6. Baked Tortilla Chips – Enjoy baked chips with salsa on the side; this crunchy snack pairs well with any chicken salad dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) can be easy, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Using bland ingredients – Opt for fresh herbs and quality chicken for vibrant flavors. Ditch the old leftovers!
• Overdressing the salad – Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
• Ignoring seasoning – Don’t forget to season your dish! A pinch of salt and some black pepper will elevate your salad’s taste.
• Neglecting texture variety – Incorporate crunchy elements like cucumbers or nuts. This makes every bite interesting.
• Skipping the mixing step – Ensure everything is well combined. Tossing helps distribute flavors evenly throughout your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from any additional toppings to maintain freshness.

Freezing Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without dressing for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and warm for 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein), you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What makes this salad high-protein?

This salad features rotisserie chicken and Greek yogurt, both excellent sources of protein, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I customize my Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or nuts for added crunch and nutrition.

How long does the dressing last?

The homemade dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a quick stir before using!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it based on what you have on hand. Enjoy this refreshing meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!