Indulging in a light yet satisfying dish is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fresh greens and tender chicken. The Green Goddess Chicken Salad embodies everything wonderful about summer: it’s vibrant, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Imagine creamy green goddess dressing enveloping perfectly cooked chicken, crispy celery, and crunchy almonds—all charmingly tied together with fragrant herbs. It’s a salad that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy, making it a fantastic option for lunch or a light dinner.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Green Goddess Salad
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Green Goddess Salad

This recipe not only shines with its vibrant colors but is also a lifesaver for those busy days. Whether you’re prepping a quick meal for yourself or hosting friends, this Green Goddess Chicken Salad is versatile enough to impress. I vividly recall the first time I shared it at a picnic. To my amazement, it was devoured within minutes, with everyone begging for seconds. If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both nutritious and utterly satisfying, then you’ll adore this refreshing twist on a classic salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Assembling this salad takes just 10 minutes, making it an effortless weeknight dinner.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy Greek yogurt and fresh herbs creates a rich and zesty dressing that’s impossible to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The gorgeous green hue and colorful ingredients make this salad a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunches, light dinners, or casual gatherings—this salad fits any occasion!
Diet-Friendly Options: With its low-fat ingredients, this recipe caters to health-conscious eaters without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt: This creamy base adds tanginess and helps create a luscious dressing. Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative to sour cream.
1/3 cup mayonnaise: For richness and depth. Opt for light mayonnaise for a lighter version.
1/2 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens and balances the dressing.
1 clove garlic: Adds a subtle kick and aromatic flavor to the dressing.
3 green onions, roots removed: These offer a milder onion flavor than regular onions and add color and texture.
1 cup lightly packed fresh herbs (equal parts chives, parsley, and dill): Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor and are essential for the green goddess dressing.
1 tbsp honey: A touch of sweetness counterbalances the acidity of the lemon and yogurt.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dressing and salad.
Black pepper, to taste: For a slight heat and depth in flavor.
4 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, skin and bones removed, shredded or chopped small: Utilizing rotisserie chicken saves time and adds wonderful flavor.
1/3 cup slivered almonds (or other chopped nuts): These lend a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans.
3 celery ribs, diced small: For a fresh and crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.

How to Make Green Goddess Salad

Blend the Dressing: Begin by adding 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, juice from 1/2 lemon, 1 clove garlic, 3 green onions (roots removed), and 1 cup of your fresh herbs (chives, parsley, and dill) into a blender. Don’t forget the 1 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper to taste. Blend until everything is smooth and creamy, about 40 seconds. If needed, pause to scrape down the sides for an even consistency.

Combine Chicken and Nuts: In a large mixing bowl, place 4 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken—skin and bones removed—along with 1/3 cup of slivered almonds and 3 diced celery ribs. Stir gently until combined to ensure the ingredients are evenly spread throughout.

Mix It All Together: Pour your vibrant green goddess dressing over the chicken mixture. With a large spoon, stir everything together thoroughly so every savory bite is coated with that luscious dressing. You can serve it immediately or, for the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep well for about 3 days. If you have more time and would like to freeze it, go ahead! Just spoon portions into freezer-safe containers and it can last up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a gentle stir. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so fresh herbs can be added just before serving to brighten the salad.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-blending the dressing—keep a slightly chunky texture for added visual appeal.
Chop your celery finely for them to really shine in contrast to the creamy chicken and dressing.
If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes—it’s an easy way to spice things up!
This salad is perfect to make ahead of time, as the flavors meld beautifully when it sits for a while.
If you’re planning to use leftover chicken, make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.

This Green Goddess Chicken Salad brings together the best of wholesome ingredients in a way that’s flavorful and inviting. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to.

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can use a plain regular yogurt or even a homemade avocado dressing for a creamier option. Just keep in mind that non-fat versions may not yield the same richness.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Green Goddess Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, especially if you ensure that the mayonnaise used is gluten-free as well.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

To turn this salad into a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite beans. The extra plant protein will make for a filling meal while maintaining the delicious flavor profile.

What vegetables can I add to this salad?

Feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even shredded carrots. The more colorful the ingredients, the more appealing your salad will be!

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Green Goddess Salad

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 5 servings 1x
Category: Salads
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Green Goddess Salad combines the richness of Greek yogurt, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs for an irresistible flavor. Quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy meal, it’s made with rotisserie chicken and crunchy almonds for added texture.

Ingredients

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2/3 cup plain greek yogurt
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 clove garlic
3 green onions, roots removed
1 cup lightly packed fresh herbs (equal parts chives, parsley, and dill)
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
black pepper, to taste
4 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, skin and bones removed, shredded or chopped small
1/3 cup slivered almonds (or other chopped nuts)
3 celery ribs, diced small

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Instructions

Combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, green onions, fresh herbs, honey, salt, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary for about 40 seconds. Set aside the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, slivered almonds, and diced celery. Mix well to combine.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently using a large spoon until everything is well coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Notes

Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorite type if you prefer different flavors.
Add more herbs for a stronger flavor or adjust to your taste.