chicken salad recipe healthy
The Best chicken salad recipe healthy
I also love how nutritious it is—lean chicken, crunchy veggies, and healthy fats from the avocado or nuts make it a balanced choice. It’s great for meal prep, too, because it keeps well in the fridge for days, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit what you have on hand. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a light gathering, this salad is a reliable way to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the kids always ask for seconds, so it’s a win all around.
Lightened-Up Chicken Salad with Fresh Herbs
A refreshing, protein-packed chicken salad that keeps the creamy texture without heavy mayo. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a side.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil until fully cooked (63°C/145°F) and no longer pink. Let cool, then shred or chop finely. -
2
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, celery, cucumber, red onion, and dill. -
3
Whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper for the dressing. -
4
Add shredded chicken to the salad bowl and pour dressing over. Toss gently to coat evenly.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Salad spinner or bowl for draining
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Lightened-Up Chicken Salad with Fresh Herbs Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lightened-Up Chicken Salad with Fresh Herbs
1. How can I make this chicken salad healthier without sacrificing flavor?
To boost nutrition, swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt or light mayo and add finely chopped celery, red onion, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. Boost the protein by using lean chicken breast or skinless turkey breast. If you prefer a creamier texture, use avocado or a light Greek yogurt base instead of mayo.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients if I don’t have them on hand?
Yes! For the Greek yogurt, you can use cottage cheese blended smooth or a light sour cream substitute. If you don’t have celery, try diced green apples or grapes for a slightly sweet twist. Skip the walnuts if needed—add a handful of fresh berries or diced cucumber for crunch instead.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free, and how can I ensure it stays safe for someone with celiac disease?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free mayo (if needed) and avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen. Stick to fresh, unprocessed ingredients and cook in a clean space to prevent hidden gluten. For extra safety, rinse any pre-packaged ingredients like breadcrumbs or seasoning blends before using.
4. How long should I marinate the chicken before making this salad?
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute marinade still works well.
