Quick Description
This Creamy Chicken Salad with Veggies is the perfect balance of protein, flavor, and crunch. Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s an ideal meal prep option or a light lunch. The addition of herbs and a tangy dressing makes it flavorful and satisfying without being heavy.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–5
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: ~10 minutes
Ingredients List
Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup carrots, diced or shredded
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/3 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (use light or avocado mayo for healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using leftover chicken, shred or dice it. If cooking fresh, cook and shred the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
Dice the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and green onions. Chop the parsley if using.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
Step 4: Combine
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, veggies, and fresh parsley. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving, if possible, to let the flavors meld. Serve as-is, on a bed of greens, or in a wrap or sandwich.
Additional Notes
- This salad is great for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can adjust the dressing to suit your taste—add more yogurt for tang or more mayo for richness.
- For added crunch, you can add a handful of nuts or seeds, such as sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Carb
- Great for Meal Prep
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Greek Yogurt: Use sour cream or low-fat cottage cheese if you prefer a different base.
- Mayonnaise: Opt for avocado mayo for a healthier fat alternative.
- Veggies: Feel free to add cucumbers or olives for extra flavor and crunch.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and healthy fats, add diced avocado.
- Tuna Salad Version: Substitute chicken with canned tuna for a variation.
- Low-Carb Wraps: Serve in lettuce wraps or with low-carb tortillas for a fresh, portable meal.
- Fruit Add-ins: For a sweet twist, add diced apples or grapes to the salad.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended due to the creamy dressing, which may separate.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Make the chicken salad in advance and store the dressing separately for fresher results.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 280–320
- Protein: 30–35 g
- Fat: 15–18 g
- Carbs: 8–10 g
- Sugar: 4–6 g
Optional Personal Story
I created this chicken salad after craving something refreshing yet filling. It quickly became a staple because it’s not only tasty but also packed with protein. It’s great as a standalone meal or as a snack throughout the day.
Call-to-Action
Make this creamy chicken salad today for a protein-packed, refreshing meal that’s simple and satisfying. Perfect for meal prep or a light lunch—let me know how you customize it!
