Green Goddess Chicken Salad

There’s something absolutely refreshing about a Green Goddess Chicken Salad. I remember the first time I made it; it was a hot summer day, and I craved something light yet filling. I thought, why not combine the creamy goodness of herbs and the heartiness of chicken? This salad became my go-to summer dish, perfect for warm evenings or picnics in the park. As I tossed the ingredients together, the vibrant colors and fresh aromas filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. It’s honestly hard to believe something so simple can be so flavorful!

Main Ingredients for Green Goddess Chicken Salad

The ingredients for the Green Goddess Chicken Salad are a harmonious blend that creates a dish bursting with flavor and texture. The key players are the tender rotisserie chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt and mayo. Together, they provide a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken: A convenient choice, pre-cooked chicken adds ease to your cooking process and ensures a tender, juicy flavor.
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery: This adds a delightful crunch and a refreshing taste that complements the creamy elements.
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: A touch of sweetness with a mild bite, red onion enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup roasted & salted pepitas: These pumpkin seeds bring an unexpected crunch and a nutty flavor that elevates the salad.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it serves as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, adding richness to the dressing.
• 1/4 cup mayo: For creaminess, a small amount of mayo helps to bind all the elements together.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard: A subtle kick that enhances the dressing and unifies the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness balances out the acidity and savory components.
• 1-1/2 teaspoons freeze-dried dill: This herb brings a fresh and fragrant flavor that defines the salad.
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried parsley: A classic herb that adds a mild, fresh note.
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried cilantro: Adds a unique herbaceous flavor that brightens the salad.
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried basil: For a sweet and aromatic touch that enhances the overall profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples enhance the flavor of every ingredient.

Preparation Steps for Green Goddess Chicken Salad

Making the Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a straightforward process that results in a fabulous dish. Follow these simple steps to create your perfect salad.

1. Start by preparing the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, lemon juice, Dijon-style mustard, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste; I typically use about 1/4 teaspoon of each. The dressing should have a creamy texture and a balanced flavor.

2. Next, prepare the rotisserie chicken. If you’re using a store-bought chicken, pull off the meat in large chunks. Add the chunks to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, measuring out 2 lightly packed, leveled cups. You want the chicken pieces to be small enough to blend well but not so small that they become mushy.

3. Now, it’s time to combine the ingredients. Add the finely chopped chicken, celery, red onion, and pepitas to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

4. Once combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might find it requires a bit more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze more of lemon juice for brightness. This is where you can tailor the flavor to your liking.

5. After tasting, let the salad sit for about ten minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the dish even more delicious.

6. When ready to serve, you can enjoy the salad in various ways. I love serving it on toasted bread with lettuce and avocado for a delightful sandwich or with crackers for a casual scoop-and-eat option. Either way, it’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some tips to elevate your Green Goddess Chicken Salad experience.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness. Stir before serving and adjust seasonings if needed.
• Freezing: It’s not the best to freeze, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze the chicken salad for up to a month. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with fresh baguette slices or a light, crisp white wine for a lovely summer meal.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs; if you have basil, dill, or parsley on hand, feel free to use them instead of freeze-dried options for a fresh twist.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch for meal prep! It holds well in the fridge, making it easy to grab for lunches during the week.
• Serving Ideas: Serve as a dip with crackers or chips for a fun appetizer at your next gathering!

What to Serve With Green Goddess Chicken Salad

When enjoying the Green Goddess Chicken Salad, consider these delightful serving suggestions:

• Toasted Bread: Serve it on slices of toasted bread topped with fresh greens like lettuce or spinach for a satisfying sandwich.
• Crackers: A simple and fun way to enjoy the salad is to serve it with a variety of crackers, perfect for dipping!
• Fresh Vegetables: Pair with crisp vegetable sticks, such as carrots and cucumbers, as a refreshing side.
• Seasonal Fruits: Complement the dish with seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for a light dessert.
• Picnic Perfect: This salad makes an excellent dish for summer picnics or gatherings, easily transportable and crowd-pleasing.
• Meal Size: Serve it as a main dish for lunch or light dinner, or you can dish it out as a side for barbecues or family gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a perfect summer dish that combines delightful flavors with a refreshing touch. With its creamy dressing and wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal you’ll want to make time and again. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering or even for a quick weeknight dinner—you won’t be disappointed!

Green Goddess Chicken Salad

The ultimate summer dish! This Green Goddess Chicken Salad combines creamy, herb-infused dressing with tender chicken and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner, it’s satisfying and healthy. Make it tonight for a fresh, vibrant meal!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Salads

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large bowl

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/4 cup roasted & salted pepitas
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayo
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1-1/2 teaspoons freeze-dried dill
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried cilantro
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried basil
• Salt
• Pepper

Instructions

 

• Start by preparing the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, lemon juice, Dijon-style mustard, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste; I typically use about 1/4 teaspoon of each. The dressing should have a creamy texture and a balanced flavor.
• Next, prepare the rotisserie chicken. If you’re using a store-bought chicken, pull off the meat in large chunks. Add the chunks to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, measuring out 2 lightly packed, leveled cups. You want the chicken pieces to be small enough to blend well but not so small that they become mushy.
• Now, it’s time to combine the ingredients. Add the finely chopped chicken, celery, red onion, and pepitas to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
• Once combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might find it requires a bit more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze more of lemon juice for brightness. This is where you can tailor the flavor to your liking.
• After tasting, let the salad sit for about ten minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the dish even more delicious.
• When ready to serve, you can enjoy the salad in various ways. I love serving it on toasted bread with lettuce and avocado for a delightful sandwich or with crackers for a casual scoop-and-eat option. Either way, it’s sure to impress!

Notes

• Tip 1: I grab a rotisserie chicken and pull off the meat in large chunks. Then I pulse it in a food processor until finely chopped. You can also finely dice it by hand.
• Tip 2: The type of yogurt makes a big difference in flavor and texture. I recommend using full-fat plain Greek yogurt. Greek Gods is my go-to.
• Tip 3: Use whatever herbs you have or like best. Freeze-dried and fresh both work. Use the same amount, and if using fresh, finely dice before measuring and mixing in.
• Tip 4: I love serving this salad as a dip with Wheat Thins, or on toasted bread with lettuce and avocado.
• Tip 5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Stir before serving and adjust seasonings if needed. Best served cold.

Keyword easy chicken salad, green goddess salad, healthy chicken salad, summer salad recipe

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.