This tasty Green Goddess Chicken Salad is packed with fresh veggies, juicy chicken, and a creamy green dressing that ties everything together. It’s super refreshing and ideal for a light meal!
Honestly, I love how colorful it looks on the plate! It makes me feel like I’m eating a rainbow. I often add some crispy croutons for extra crunch—yum! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken is the star here. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you want a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or shredded tofu for a similar texture.
Greek Yogurt: This gives creaminess with a tangy flavor. If you want a lighter version, substitute with low-fat yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or an equally thick non-dairy yogurt.
Fresh Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Chives): These really brighten up the dish! If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried versions work too, though use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. My personal favorite is dill, which adds a nice twist!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds acidity. If you’re out, vinegar (like apple cider or white wine) can be a good substitute to maintain brightness in flavor.
Optional Ingredients: Celery adds crunch; feel free to swap it with diced cucumbers for a different texture. Green onions are lovely for a fresh garnish, but you can omit them if you prefer simplicity.
How Do I Make the Creamy Green Goddess Dressing Smooth?
Creating a creamy and smooth dressing is key for this salad. Using a food processor makes it easy, but if you don’t have one, you can whisk it together by hand. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by adding the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to your food processor or bowl.
- Add in the fresh herbs, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend or whisk until everything is well combined.
- Adjust the consistency by adding a bit of water or more lemon juice if needed. If blending, be sure to scrape down the sides for an even mix.
Let the dressing sit for a bit after blending. This helps all the flavors combine beautifully! Experiment a little to find the perfect balance for your taste.
The Best Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup diced celery (optional for crunch)
- 1/4 cup diced green onions (optional for garnish)
For The Green Goddess Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Green Goddess Chicken Salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a refreshing lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Green Goddess Dressing:
Start by gathering all your dressing ingredients. In a food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh basil, parsley, chives, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad so flavorful!
2. Combine the Chicken and Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken. Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the chicken and stir gently until all the chicken is nicely coated with the dressing. Make sure every piece of chicken gets that creamy goodness!
3. Add Crunch and Chill:
If you’re using it, fold in the diced celery at this point for a nice crunch. Taste your salad and add more salt and pepper if needed. Once combined, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to come together beautifully!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Green Goddess Chicken Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it on a bed of fresh lettuce, in a wrap, or with some whole grain bread. If you want to add a little more flair, sprinkle some diced green onions on top for garnish. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken meat from the bones and use it in the recipe as you would with cooked chicken. It’s often seasoned nicely, adding extra flavor to your salad.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version. If using sour cream, keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate over time. If needed, add a splash of lemon juice or additional yogurt to freshen it up.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. You can add ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, chopped nuts for crunch, or other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for more freshness. Feel free to get creative!
