If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and healthy dish that’s packed with flavor, this Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. It combines tender chicken with vibrant, fresh vegetables and a creamy yet light dressing that’s both delicious and nutritious. The salad is topped off with crunchy sunflower seeds or pine nuts, adding a satisfying texture and an extra layer of flavor. This dish makes a wonderful meal on its own or can be served alongside other light dishes. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. Plus, with the balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this salad is as nourishing as it is tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This salad is simple to prepare, requiring just a few fresh ingredients and minimal cooking. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

2. Packed with Fresh, Nutritious Ingredients

The combination of chicken, fresh vegetables like celery and avocado, and a yogurt-based dressing provides a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

3. Versatile

This salad is easily customizable. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have available or add extra toppings like nuts, seeds, or even cheese.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it ideal for meal prepping. The flavors develop even more as it sits.

5. Refreshing and Light

The creamy dressing, made with Greek yogurt and lemon juice, adds a zesty and refreshing touch, making this salad light yet satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

Cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
Celery (diced)
Green onions (sliced)
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Avocado (diced)
Sunflower seeds or pine nuts (toasted)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

Plain Greek yogurt
Mayonnaise
Lemon juice

Variations

Add More Vegetables: Consider adding cucumber, bell peppers, or spinach to the salad for extra crunch and nutrients.
Use a Different Nut: If you don’t have sunflower seeds or pine nuts, try slivered almonds or chopped walnuts for a different flavor.
Greek Yogurt-Free Dressing: If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Add Fruit: For a slightly sweeter version, add diced apple or grapes to the salad.
Spicy Version: Add a little heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes into the salad or dressing.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Start by dicing the cooked chicken, celery, and avocado. Slice the green onions and chop the cilantro and parsley. Toast the sunflower seeds or pine nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, celery, green onions, cilantro, parsley, and avocado.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Top with Nuts

Sprinkle the toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts on top for added crunch.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure the chicken is fully cooled: If you’re using leftover chicken, ensure it has cooled down completely before adding it to the salad to keep the ingredients fresh.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro and parsley make a huge difference in flavor, so be sure to use fresh herbs for the best result.
Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to taste.
Toast the nuts carefully: Toasting the seeds or nuts enhances their flavor, but be sure not to burn them—keep an eye on them as they toast.
Add protein variety: If you’re looking to change up the protein, try using cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein like tofu.

How to Serve

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy it as a stand-alone dish for a light lunch or dinner. It also pairs well with whole-grain crackers or a slice of whole wheat bread for a more filling meal. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but the salad will still be delicious.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing, especially because of the avocado and the fresh vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold, you don’t need to reheat it. Simply take it out of the fridge and serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option if you’re short on time. It’s already cooked and adds a wonderful flavor to the salad.

2. Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it.

3. Can I substitute the mayo in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the mayo with additional Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free mayo alternative if you prefer.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any grains or gluten-containing ingredients.

5. How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, swap the chicken for a plant-based protein such as chickpeas or tofu, and replace the Greek yogurt and mayo with vegan alternatives.

6. Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes, you can add crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar if you like cheese in your salad.

7. Can I substitute the sunflower seeds or pine nuts?

Yes, you can use slivered almonds, walnuts, or pecans as alternatives.

8. How can I make this salad spicier?

You can add a bit of diced jalapeño or sprinkle chili flakes into the dressing for extra heat.

9. Can I use a store-bought dressing instead?

While homemade dressing tastes best, you can use store-bought Green Goddess dressing if you’re short on time.

10. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

The salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, the avocado may brown after a day, so it’s best to eat it within the first 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

This Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of fresh, nutritious ingredients and rich, creamy flavor. The chicken, combined with the vibrant vegetables and the tangy dressing, creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s easy to make, customizable, and can be prepped ahead of time for a convenient, healthy meal throughout the week. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with other dishes, this salad is a delicious and nourishing choice that will leave you feeling full and energized.