This Green Goddess Chicken Salad combines the richness of creamy avocado, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the heartiness of shredded chicken, creating a vibrant dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is versatile and customizable. Whether you enjoy it on its own or served in a wrap, it’s a satisfying meal that is not only healthy but also bursting with fresh flavors. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious, nutritious lunch ready throughout the week.
Full Recipe:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, basil, chives, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Arrange mixed greens on a large plate or in a salad bowl.
- Top with sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds (if using).
- Spoon the creamy Green Goddess chicken mixture over the top of the salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken) | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Green Goddess Chicken Salad: A Healthy, Flavorful Delight
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a vibrant and wholesome dish that combines fresh ingredients with a creamy yet healthy dressing, making it a perfect addition to your meal repertoire. Not only does it offer a burst of flavor, but it also delivers a healthy, balanced profile that works well for various dietary preferences, from low-carb to gluten-free and high-protein options.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the Green Goddess salad, its nutritional benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your diet. Whether you’re preparing a lunch, dinner, or a nutritious snack, this recipe provides the versatility and satisfaction to meet your needs. Plus, we’ll touch on some variations and creative ways to modify the salad based on your personal preferences.
Origins of the Green Goddess Salad
The Green Goddess salad dressing was originally created in 1923 at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. It was designed as part of a dish that was meant to honor the famous actor, George Arliss, who was performing in the play The Green Goddess at the time. The dressing was made with a blend of ingredients like tarragon, chives, anchovies, and mayonnaise, creating a vibrant, herbaceous flavor that became a hit with the hotel’s guests.
Over time, the dressing has evolved and become a popular component in a variety of dishes, including salads, dips, and sandwiches. The Green Goddess Chicken Salad brings this rich history into modern cooking, offering a lighter, healthier take without sacrificing flavor.
What Makes the Green Goddess Chicken Salad Special?
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad stands out for several reasons, most notably its balance of fresh, wholesome ingredients and its creamy, tangy dressing. It typically includes cooked chicken, mixed greens, and a variety of vegetables. The star of the show, however, is the Green Goddess dressing, which ties everything together with its herby, tangy flavor. Here’s what makes it special:
- Healthy, Flavorful Dressing: The Green Goddess dressing is the signature element. It’s usually made from a base of Greek yogurt or avocado, providing a creamy texture with healthier fats compared to traditional mayo-based dressings. Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and chives add a burst of freshness, while lemon juice provides a zesty tang.
- High Protein, Low-Carb: With the inclusion of grilled chicken as the primary protein source, this salad becomes an excellent choice for anyone seeking to boost their protein intake while keeping carbs in check. It’s ideal for those on keto or low-carb diets, and also fits into paleo or gluten-free meal plans.
- Nutrient-Dense Vegetables: The addition of vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers boosts the fiber content, helping you stay full longer and promoting digestive health. These vegetables also provide antioxidants that support overall wellness.
- Customizable to Your Taste: One of the best aspects of this salad is its versatility. You can easily adjust it to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you want to swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein or add nuts for crunch, the Green Goddess Chicken Salad can be tailored in countless ways.
Nutritional Benefits of the Green Goddess Chicken Salad
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is more than just a tasty dish; it’s also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits:
- High in Protein: The grilled chicken provides an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall bodily health. This makes it a great option for post-workout meals or as a filling lunch.
- Healthy Fats: The Green Goddess dressing, especially when made with avocado or Greek yogurt, provides heart-healthy fats. These fats are crucial for brain function, hormone regulation, and nutrient absorption.
- Rich in Fiber: The vegetables in the salad, such as leafy greens, cucumbers, and bell peppers, are high in fiber, which is important for digestive health and satiety. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports a healthy weight.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The fresh herbs in the dressing (such as parsley and chives) and the vegetables are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K. These micronutrients play a vital role in supporting immune health, skin health, and proper blood clotting.
- Low in Carbs and Sugar: For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, the Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a great option. It’s low in carbohydrates and sugar, helping you maintain steady energy levels without spiking your blood sugar.
How to Make Green Goddess Chicken Salad
While you could easily grab a pre-packaged Green Goddess Chicken Salad from the store, there’s something special about preparing it at home. Making your own version allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it meets your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here’s a quick guide on how to prepare this dish:
- Start with the Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken breast works best for this recipe. It’s important to cook the chicken properly to ensure it’s juicy and tender. You can season it with your favorite spices or a simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Prepare the Vegetables: The vegetables are key to adding color, texture, and nutrients to the salad. Common choices include mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine), cucumbers, tomatoes, avocado, and red onions. These provide a great balance of flavor and nutrition.
- Make the Dressing: The dressing is the heart of the Green Goddess Chicken Salad. You can make it by blending ingredients such as avocado, Greek yogurt, fresh herbs (like parsley, basil, and chives), lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Some variations include a touch of garlic or anchovies for an extra punch.
- Assemble the Salad: Once all your components are ready, toss the mixed greens, chicken, and vegetables in a bowl. Drizzle the Green Goddess dressing over the top and toss gently to coat the ingredients.
Variations of the Green Goddess Chicken Salad
While the classic Green Goddess Chicken Salad is delicious on its own, you can make it your own by incorporating additional ingredients or making swaps based on your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Shrimp: If you’re not a fan of chicken, grilled shrimp can be a fantastic alternative. It adds a different flavor and texture while still providing a lean protein source.
- Vegan Version: To make this salad vegan-friendly, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein sources like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. You can also make the dressing with cashews or almond butter for a creamy base.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: For some added crunch and extra nutrition, sprinkle some toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds on top of your salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Swap out some of the raw vegetables for roasted ones like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a comforting flavor to the salad.
- Cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, adding a sprinkle of goat cheese or feta can enhance the flavor profile of the salad.
Conclusion: A Healthy and Delicious Choice
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is an easy-to-make, nutrient-dense dish that’s both satisfying and good for you. Its combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and flavorful herbs makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this salad is a versatile and delicious option for a variety of dietary preferences.
Adding this salad to your meal plan provides you with a delicious way to meet your nutritional needs while keeping things light, fresh, and flavorful. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy lunch or dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a true winner in the world of healthy, flavorful salads.