Protein-Packed Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is a classic dish that many love for its simplicity and delicious taste. This Protein-Packed Chicken Salad is not just tasty; it’s also healthy and filling. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. With tender chicken and refreshing ingredients, this salad is sure to satisfy your hunger.
Why Make This Recipe
This chicken salad is full of protein thanks to the cooked chicken and Greek yogurt. It’s great for anyone looking to add more protein to their diet. Plus, it’s very easy to make! You can prepare it quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy days. It’s also versatile, allowing you to enjoy it on its own or in a sandwich.
How to Make Protein-Packed Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, red onion, bell pepper, grapes, and chopped nuts. Mix well.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich.
How to Serve Protein-Packed Chicken Salad
This chicken salad can be served in several ways. You can place it on a bed of crisp lettuce for a healthy salad. Alternatively, you can scoop it into a sandwich for a delicious meal. It also goes well with whole-grain crackers or tortilla wraps.
How to Store Protein-Packed Chicken Salad
To keep your chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. If you plan to store it, you might want to add the nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Tips to Make Protein-Packed Chicken Salad
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like cucumber or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
- If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño.
Variation
You can customize this salad easily. If you’re looking for a different flavor, swap Greek yogurt with avocado for a creamy twist. You can also replace grapes with diced apples for a sweet and crunchy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it when you’re ready.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. Just make sure that any store-bought items, like Dijon mustard, are labeled gluten-free.
3. Can I use a different type of nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you like, such as pecans or cashews, or omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
