Description
This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a delicious, high-protein meal featuring tender chicken breast tossed in a creamy avocado and Greek yogurt dressing infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is packed with nutritious ingredients, gluten-free, low-carb, and easy to prepare with no cooking required.
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon (or basil)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups chopped romaine or baby spinach
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup halved green grapes or sliced green apple (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, chives, tarragon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, chopped romaine or baby spinach, diced cucumber, and the optional green grapes or apple if using. Toss these ingredients together to combine evenly.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared green goddess dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Add Crunch and Serve: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds on top for added texture and crunch if desired. Serve the salad chilled on its own, over extra greens, or wrapped in a tortilla for a nutritious meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save preparation time.
- For extra protein, consider mixing in a chopped hard-boiled egg or a spoonful of cottage cheese.
- The green goddess dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.