Introduction
Looking for a light, refreshing, and nutritious salad that’s packed with flavor? This Savory Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a delicious blend of tender shredded chicken, crisp greens, creamy avocado, and a vibrant herb-packed dressing. It’s fresh, easy to make, and bursting with healthy ingredients, making it the perfect lunch, dinner, or meal-prep option. The Green Goddess dressing, known for its creamy texture and herbaceous flavor, elevates this salad to the next level. It’s rich, tangy, and full of fresh herbs, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
Origin of Green Goddess Dressing & Salad
The Green Goddess dressing dates back to the 1920s in San Francisco, where it was created at the Palace Hotel. Inspired by French cuisine, this dressing became famous for its vibrant green color and rich, herb-infused flavor. Over the years, it has been adapted into many dishes, including salads, dips, and even sandwiches. The Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a modern twist, combining the protein-packed goodness of chicken with a refreshing mix of greens and a creamy herb dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Fresh & Healthy – Loaded with greens, lean protein, and healthy fats.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep time.
- Versatile – Enjoy it as a salad, in a sandwich, or in a wrap.
- Bursting with Flavor – The herbaceous dressing makes it incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- ½ cup sliced cucumbers
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)
For the Green Goddess Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp chopped chives
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, chives, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add shredded chicken, mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
- Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Enjoy as is, or serve in a wrap, sandwich, or with whole grain crackers.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the dressing to get the best flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and adds extra flavor.
- Massage the greens lightly with a little olive oil for a softer texture.
- Adjust the dressing – If you like a thinner dressing, add a little water or extra lemon juice.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overdressing the salad – Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Add a little at a time.
- Not using fresh herbs – Dried herbs won’t give the same fresh and vibrant taste.
- Waiting too long to serve – The avocado can brown, so serve fresh or toss with lemon juice to prevent oxidation.
Serving Tips
- Serve in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.
- Pair with crusty bread or pita chips for added texture.
- Use as a filling for sandwiches or grain bowls for a heartier meal.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken – A lean protein source that helps with muscle growth and keeps you full.
- Avocado – Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins that support heart health.
- Greens (Spinach, Arugula, Romaine) – Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt (or Mayo) – Provides calcium, probiotics, and protein for gut health.
- Olive Oil – Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Interesting Facts About Green Goddess Salad
- The original Green Goddess dressing was inspired by a French sauce called “Sauce Verte.”
- This dressing was named after the 1920s play “The Green Goddess”, performed at the Palace Hotel.
- Green Goddess dressing is so popular that it has inspired salad dressings, dips, and even pasta sauces.
Summarized Recipe
- Blend fresh herbs, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, and olive oil to make the dressing.
- Combine shredded chicken, greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion in a bowl.
- Toss with the Green Goddess dressing and garnish with nuts or seeds.
- Serve fresh as a salad, in a wrap, or on toast.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Green Goddess Chicken Salad is fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a light lunch, meal prep, or a healthy dinner, it’s a delicious way to enjoy protein-packed greens with a creamy, herby twist.
