Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Green Goddess Chicken Salad: A Fresh Taste of Spring All Year Long
If you’re looking for a vibrant, satisfying dish that bursts with flavor and color, look no further than Green Goddess Chicken Salad. With tender shredded chicken enveloped in a creamy, herbaceous dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of protein and freshness. I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a spring brunch with friends; its bright flavors and cheerful presentation made it an instant hit. Whether it’s a quick weeknight supper or a centerpiece for a gathering, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
Reasons to Try It
This Green Goddess Chicken Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors. You’ll love the way it comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something healthy yet delicious. It’s kid-approved, thanks to its creamy dressing and colorful mix of veggies, and it can easily be adjusted to fit your pantry’s contents. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken!
"This salad is everything! The dressing is so refreshing, and it pairs perfectly with the chicken. My family couldn’t get enough of it!"
Preparing Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Creating this chicken salad is a breeze! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s ready to dazzle your taste buds. First, you’ll make the Green Goddess dressing that gives this recipe its signature flavor. Then, all you need to do is toss in the chicken and vegetables, and you’re on your way to salad perfection!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Green Goddess Chicken Salad shine:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Mixed salad greens or lettuce
Feel free to make substitutions! If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt. You can also switch out herbs depending on what you have on hand.
Directions to Follow
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Add the fresh parsley, basil, tarragon, chives, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to create the Green Goddess dressing.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as necessary.
- Add the shredded chicken and coat it fully with the dressing.
- Gently fold in the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Green Goddess Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it cold on a warm summer day, or make it the star of a picnic with crusty bread on the side. It pairs wonderfully with a light white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon. You can also pack it in wrap form for a tasty lunch on the go or spoon it into avocado halves for a low-carb twist!
How to Store & Freeze
Leftovers can often be just as delightful. Store any extra chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to keep it chilled to ensure freshness! Though it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze the dressing separately for future use, but the vegetables will lose their texture in the freezer. For optimal taste, you’ll want to eat the salad fresh.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut if cooking isn’t your thing.
- Don’t skimp on the herbs; they’re the stars of this recipe and enhance the overall flavor.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving; this lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to consider with your Green Goddess Chicken Salad:
- Add nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture—think walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
- Want it spicy? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Substitute quinoa for part of the chicken to add some whole grains; it’ll give your salad an interesting twist.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
This salad can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick meal!
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dressing and combine it with the chicken a day ahead. Just wait to add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and greens until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt, sour cream, or even avocado for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
With its creamy dressing brimming with fresh herbs and a variety of colorful veggies, Green Goddess Chicken Salad is sure to brighten your table. Enjoy this vibrant dish all season long!
Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Add the fresh parsley, basil, tarragon, chives, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to create the Green Goddess dressing.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as necessary.
- Add the shredded chicken and coat it fully with the dressing.
- Gently fold in the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs.
