Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein) is a refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Packed with protein from shredded rotisserie chicken and enriched with vibrant herbs, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The homemade Green Goddess dressing brings together creamy avocado and tangy lemon juice, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or entertaining guests. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad takes only 10 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy days.
• High in Protein: With rotisserie chicken and Greek yogurt, this dish offers a healthy dose of protein in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies like green onions or cucumbers to suit your taste preferences.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The blend of fresh herbs adds a burst of flavor that elevates the classic chicken salad experience.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week for quick, healthy lunches.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein), you’ll need a few essential tools to simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or high-speed blender: This tool makes it easy to create a smooth and creamy dressing quickly.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistency in flavor and texture for every batch.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (480g, 16oz)
• optional: green onion, red onion, or chopped cucumber

For the Dressing

• 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 the Chicken

• Use a food processor or two forks to shred your rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Adjust the fineness based on your preference.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, mint, spinach, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
• Blend until smooth for about 2–3 minutes. If needed, add water gradually until reaching your desired consistency.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken. Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the top.
• Mix thoroughly until all pieces of chicken are well coated in dressing.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients

• If desired, fold in any optional ingredients such as green onions, red onion, cucumber, or mashed white beans for added texture and flavor.

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also an excellent source of nutrition. Enjoy!

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

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh greens like arugula or mixed salad leaves for a crisp base.
• This adds extra nutrients and makes the dish heartier.

In a Wrap

• Spread the salad on a whole-grain tortilla or lettuce leaf.
• Roll it up for a quick, portable lunch or snack option.

With Whole Grain Crackers

• Serve alongside whole grain crackers for added crunch.
• This makes for a great appetizer at gatherings or a simple snack.

Stuffed in Avocado Halves

• Scoop out some avocado and fill it with the chicken salad.
• This not only looks appealing but also adds healthy fats.

Topped on Toast

• Spoon the salad over toasted whole-grain bread or an English muffin.
• It’s an easy, satisfying meal for breakfast or brunch.

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

To enhance the flavors and texture of your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and quality rotisserie chicken for the best flavor.
• Adjust Dressing Thickness: If the dressing is too thick, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts, seeds, or different vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld together.
• Use Greek Yogurt Variations: Experiment with flavored Greek yogurt for different taste profiles—herbed, garlic, or spicy versions work well.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options.

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and add sweetness to your meal.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the flavors of the chicken salad nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a warm and savory contrast to the cold salad.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out the savory notes of the chicken salad.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer crunch and brightness that pairs beautifully with this dish.
6. Hummus and Veggies: Serve hummus with assorted raw vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and celery for a healthy dip option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make simple mistakes when preparing a Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Dressing Prep: Many people forget to blend the dressing well enough. Take your time to ensure it’s smooth for better flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: If you’re using fresh chicken, avoid overcooking it. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dampen the taste. Always opt for fresh parsley, dill, and mint for a vibrant salad.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to blandness. Always check if it needs more salt or pepper before serving.
• Ignoring Optional Add-ins: Leaving out optional ingredients like green onions or cucumber can reduce texture and flavor. Experiment with these add-ins for variety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from the dressing if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before consuming.

Reheating Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad.

What makes this salad high-protein?

The use of shredded rotisserie chicken and Greek yogurt boosts protein content significantly, making it a filling choice.

Can I customize my Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like chickpeas, nuts, or different veggies for personalized flavors.

How long does this salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with whole-grain bread, pita chips, or a light soup for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins while enjoying its creamy dressing and vibrant flavors. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!