This Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a refreshing take on a classic dish, combining tender rotisserie chicken with a vibrant, herbaceous dressing. Made with creamy avocado, Greek yogurt, and a blend of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint, it’s a nutrient-dense and protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The combination of bright lemon juice, garlic, and heart-healthy olive oil brings everything together in a light yet creamy texture. Perfect for meal prep, this dish can be enjoyed in multiple ways: scoop it onto a bed of crisp greens, stuff it into a wrap, or pair it with crunchy crackers for a quick, high-protein snack. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be customized with additional veggies for extra crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a nutritious snack, this Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (480g, 16oz)
- 1 medium avocado (150g)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat) (228g)
- 1 cup fresh parsley (60g)
- ½ cup fresh dill (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 kosher salt (3g) (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp water (optional, to thin out dressing)
- Optional Add-Ins: Green onion, red onion, chopped cucumber, or mashed white beans
Directions:
- Shred the rotisserie chicken using a food processor or two forks, depending on your desired texture.
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, mint, spinach, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to thin the dressing.
- Place the shredded chicken in a large bowl and pour the green goddess dressing over it. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated.
- If desired, mix in any optional add-ins for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy on a sandwich, in a wrap, over greens, or with crackers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 195 kcal per serving
Servings: 8 servings
Why You’ll Love Green Goddess Chicken Salad
This chicken salad stands out from traditional versions because it replaces mayonnaise with a creamy avocado and Greek yogurt-based dressing. Not only does this swap add more nutrients, but it also enhances the texture and flavor profile. The use of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint makes the salad incredibly fragrant and refreshing.
Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- High-Protein & Low-Carb – Each serving is packed with lean protein from shredded chicken, making it a filling and nutritious choice.
- Rich in Healthy Fats – Avocado and olive oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which support brain function and overall well-being.
- Full of Fresh Herbs & Antioxidants – The inclusion of parsley, dill, mint, and spinach makes this salad an antioxidant powerhouse.
- Versatile & Customizable – Enjoy it as a sandwich, in a wrap, over salad greens, or as a dip for veggies and crackers.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch at the start of the week for easy, healthy meals on the go.
The Nutritional Benefits of Green Goddess Chicken Salad
This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutrient-dense meal that offers numerous health benefits. Let’s break down some of the key ingredients and why they’re good for you.
1. Lean Protein from Chicken
Shredded rotisserie chicken is the main protein source in this recipe. Chicken is a high-quality lean protein that helps with muscle repair, satiety, and metabolism. Choosing rotisserie chicken makes the recipe quick and convenient while still providing essential amino acids.
2. Avocado: A Superfood for Your Health
Avocado is a major ingredient in the dressing, giving it a creamy texture without the need for heavy mayonnaise. It is rich in fiber, potassium, and healthy fats, which are great for heart health, digestion, and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Avocados also contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health.
3. Greek Yogurt for Probiotics and Protein
Greek yogurt is used in place of mayonnaise, reducing saturated fats while boosting protein and probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial for gut health and digestion, making this salad not only filling but also good for your microbiome.
4. Fresh Herbs for Antioxidants
Parsley, dill, and mint are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Parsley is rich in Vitamin C and K, dill supports digestion and has antibacterial properties, while mint has a cooling effect and helps with digestion. Adding a variety of fresh herbs makes this salad both flavorful and highly nutritious.
5. Spinach for Iron and Vitamins
Spinach is a fantastic addition to the dressing, providing extra iron, folate, and fiber. It’s a great way to boost nutrient intake, especially for those looking to increase their vegetable consumption.
6. Olive Oil for Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean diets, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and heart health benefits. It adds depth to the dressing while keeping it smooth and well-balanced.
Serving Ideas: How to Enjoy Green Goddess Chicken Salad
One of the best things about this chicken salad is its versatility. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:
1. Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich
Scoop the salad onto whole-grain or gluten-free bread, add some fresh lettuce or sliced tomatoes, and enjoy it as a hearty sandwich.
2. Lettuce Wraps for a Low-Carb Option
For a light, refreshing meal, serve this salad wrapped in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s an excellent low-carb, keto-friendly option.
3. Over a Bed of Greens
Turn this salad into a full meal by serving it over mixed greens, arugula, or baby spinach. Add some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or toasted nuts for extra crunch.
4. Stuffed Avocados or Bell Peppers
Hollow out an avocado or bell pepper and fill it with this chicken salad for a beautiful, nutrient-packed dish.
5. As a Dip with Crackers and Veggies
This salad works great as a dip! Pair it with cucumber slices, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or whole-grain crackers for a nutritious snack.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One of the biggest advantages of this dish is that it is meal-prep friendly. It stays fresh in the refrigerator and can be used in various ways throughout the week.
1. How to Store It
- Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. After that, the avocado in the dressing may begin to brown slightly, but the flavor remains intact.
- If you plan to store it longer, squeeze some extra lemon juice on top to preserve its vibrant green color.
2. Can You Freeze It?
Due to the high moisture content of the Greek yogurt and avocado, freezing is not recommended. The texture may change, making it watery once thawed.
3. Best Containers for Meal Prep
Using glass containers with tight-fitting lids helps keep the salad fresh while allowing you to see the contents easily. Mason jars are also a great option if you want to take it on the go.
Variations and Customization Ideas
This Green Goddess Chicken Salad is highly adaptable. Here are some ways to switch things up based on dietary preferences and ingredient availability:
1. Make It Spicy
Add a dash of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or red pepper flakes to give it a little kick.
2. Dairy-Free Option
Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or cashew-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.
3. Add More Crunch
Incorporate chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for added texture and healthy fats.
4. Boost Fiber with Beans
Mix in mashed white beans or chickpeas to increase the fiber and plant-based protein content.
5. Turn It into a Wrap
Roll it into a whole-wheat tortilla or a low-carb wrap with some shredded carrots and sprouts.
Conclusion:
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a flavorful, high-protein, and nutritious meal that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle. With its herbaceous dressing, creamy texture, and nutrient-dense ingredients, it’s a perfect alternative to traditional chicken salad.
Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or over greens, this dish offers endless possibilities. Plus, it’s meal-prep friendly, making it a convenient and healthy choice for busy individuals.