As the sun starts shining brighter and the days grow longer, there’s a craving for something that embodies the essence of summer—vibrant, fresh, and full of flavor. Enter the Green Goddess Chicken Salad, a dish that not only dazzles the eyes but also nourishes the body with four servings of your five-a-day. The aromatic blend of fresh basil and zesty lime dances together with a hint of heat from jalapeño, creating a perfectly balanced flavor explosion.
I discovered this recipe during one of those sunny afternoons when I wanted a light meal that wouldn’t weigh me down. With its ease and quick prep time, clocking in at just 30 minutes, this salad transforms a mundane lunch into a delightful dining experience. Whether you’re looking to impress at a summer gathering or need a quick dinner solution, this chicken salad is a refreshing choice that promises satisfaction in every colorful bite. Let’s dive into this wholesome summer staple!
Why is Green Goddess Chicken Salad a must-try?
Deliciously Vibrant: This salad not only looks stunning but also explodes with fresh flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
Nutritious & Filling: Packed with four servings of veggies, it’s a fantastic way to meet your 5-a-day goal without sacrificing taste.
Quick & Easy: Whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Base: Feel free to customize with your favorite protein or seasonal veggies—this salad adapts beautifully to your preferences!
Ideal for Summer: Chill it down and serve it up on hot days for a refreshing meal that feels both light and satisfying.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a family dinner, this colorful dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Green Goddess Chicken Salad Ingredients
• Get ready for a burst of flavors!
For the Dressing
- Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in absorbing the salad’s vitamins; use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Lime – Adds acidity and freshness; use lemon if lime isn’t available.
- Jalapeño – Introduces heat and flavor; omit for a mild version.
- Basil – Provides a fragrant, herbal note; substitute with cilantro for a different taste.
- Water – Helps blend the dressing smoothly, ensuring a perfect consistency.
For the Salad
- Little Gem Lettuce – Offers a tender bite; use romaine or mixed greens as alternatives.
- Cucumber – Adds crunch and hydration; substitute with celery for a crisper texture.
- Sundried Tomatoes – Enhances sweetness and umami; substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes for a lighter option.
- Cooked Skinless Chicken Breasts – Adds protein; swap with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spring Onions – Provides a mild onion flavor; use red onion in smaller quantities for a sharper taste.
- Cooked Quinoa – Boosts fiber and protein; replace with couscous or farro if desired.
- Chopped Pistachios – Adds crunch and flavor; substitute with walnuts or seeds for a different nut flavor.
- Eggs – Contributes protein and texture; replace with chickpeas for a plant-based option.
With these fresh ingredients, your Green Goddess Chicken Salad will not only be delicious but also a colorful nutrition powerhouse!
How to Make Green Goddess Chicken Salad
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Blend the Dressing: Combine the avocado, olive oil, lime zest and juice, jalapeño, basil, half the cucumber, and a splash of water. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate the dressing to let the flavors develop.
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Prepare the Eggs: Boil the eggs for exactly 7 minutes to achieve a perfectly soft center. Once done, cool them in cold water, peel, and slice them in half.
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Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, toss quartered Little Gem lettuce with sundried tomatoes, shredded chicken, sliced spring onions, and the remaining cucumber. Mix gently to combine all the flavors.
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Arrange and Serve: Layer cooked quinoa on a serving plate. Next, top it with the chicken salad mixture, then carefully arrange the halved eggs and drizzle the chilled dressing on top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.
Optional: Garnish with additional basil leaves for a fresh pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Green Goddess Chicken Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance; simply blend the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (lettuce, cucumber, and spring onions) and store them separately for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness and prevent browning, store these ingredients in sealed bags or containers with a damp paper towel. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the prepped salad ingredients together with the chilled dressing, warm up your cooked quinoa, and plate everything with the boiled eggs on top for a delightful, fuss-free meal that tastes just as delicious!
Green Goddess Chicken Salad Variations
Enhance your culinary creativity by giving this delightful salad your personal twist!
- Protein Swap: Replace cooked skinless chicken with grilled shrimp or marinated tofu for a different protein experience.
- Seasonal Fruit: Toss in chopped mango or strawberries for a sweet touch that complements the zesty dressing beautifully.
- Roasted Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini to deepen the flavor profile with warm, earthy notes.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with dill or parsley instead of basil for a unique twist on the dressing’s flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Swap chopped pistachios for sunflower seeds or hazelnuts to change the crunch factor and boost nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add diced serrano peppers or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Whole Grain Boost: Use farro or barley instead of quinoa for added texture and a heartier bite.
- Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of avocado in the dressing for a tangy and creamy option that reduces fat.
Your version of this refreshing summer salad is just a twist away!
Expert Tips for Green Goddess Chicken Salad
- Perfectly Cooked Eggs: Ensure eggs are boiled for exactly 7 minutes; this will create a creamy center without being runny or overcooked.
- Smooth Dressing: Blend the dressing thoroughly until creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings!
- Chill Ingredients: Refrigerate the salad components separate from the dressing until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness and crunch.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare your ingredients a few hours in advance to save time; just assemble before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap ingredients, but ensure you maintain the base flavors of the green goddess dressing for that signature taste.
How to Store and Freeze Green Goddess Chicken Salad
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, avoid leaving the salad out for more than 2 hours to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
- Fridge: Store salad components in airtight containers separately, and consume within 2 days for the best quality, especially if you want to keep the greens crisp.
- Dressing Storage: The Green Goddess dressing can be refrigerated in a jar for up to 5 days; just give it a good shake before using.
- Freezer: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the lettuce and dressing; enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
What to Serve with Green Goddess Chicken Salad?
Enhance your summer meal with delightful sides and pairings that complement this vibrant dish perfectly.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf acts as the perfect vehicle for mopping up any leftover dressing, adding a satisfying chew to each bite.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the salad’s fresh flavors while also refreshing your palate on warm, sunny days.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini and bell peppers bring smokiness that beautifully contrasts the salad’s bright notes, making for a vibrant and colorful plate.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh summer fruits, such as watermelon and berries, offers a sweet balance—bringing a delightful variety of flavors and textures.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: The crunchiness of seasoned potato wedges adds comfort and warmth, creating a marvelous contrast to the refreshing salad.
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Greek Yogurt Dip: Serve with crunchy vegetable sticks for a refreshing side that keeps with the healthy theme, complementing the creamy texture of the salad.
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Fresh Herbs: A simple garnish of extra basil or cilantro not only adds visual appeal but also elevates the dish with a burst of additional flavor.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink enhances all the textures and flavors without overpowering the meal, perfect for sipping alongside your summery delight.
Let these pairings bring out the best in your Green Goddess Chicken Salad experience, ensuring a wholesome and flavorful feast.
Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados for my Green Goddess Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting avocados, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. A dark green skin usually indicates ripeness. If they’re too firm, give them a few days to ripen at room temperature.
How should I store my Green Goddess Chicken Salad?
To maintain freshness, store salad components separately in airtight containers. The salad is best consumed within 2 days. However, if you want to keep the greens crisp, I recommend storing the dressing in a jar and refrigerating it for up to 5 days!
Can I freeze the Green Goddess dressing?
Unfortunately, this dressing doesn’t freeze well due to its creamy texture. I suggest enjoying it fresh; however, you can prepare a batch in advance and refrigerate it for 5 days. Just give it a good shake before using!
What if my eggs aren’t boiled correctly?
No worries! If your eggs are overcooked, they may develop a rubbery texture. To remedy this, ensure you boil eggs for exactly 7 minutes, then cool them in cold water to stop the cooking process. If you’re in doubt, you can always try again—practice makes perfect!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Very good question! If you have allergies, be cautious with the nuts; I recommend substituting pistachios with seeds if needed. Additionally, if making this for pets or with pet exposure in mind, avoid ingredients like onions, which can be harmful to animals.
Can I use different proteins in my salad?
The more the merrier! Absolutely! This salad is adaptable to your liking—swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, beans, or even chickpeas for a plant-based version. Just ensure you cook the proteins properly and let them cool before adding to the salad!
Green Goddess Chicken Salad: A Refreshing Twist for Summer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Dressing: Combine the avocado, olive oil, lime zest and juice, jalapeño, basil, half the cucumber, and a splash of water. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate the dressing to let the flavors develop.
- Prepare the Eggs: Boil the eggs for exactly 7 minutes to achieve a perfectly soft center. Once done, cool them in cold water, peel, and slice them in half.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, toss quartered Little Gem lettuce with sundried tomatoes, shredded chicken, sliced spring onions, and the remaining cucumber. Mix gently to combine all the flavors.
- Arrange and Serve: Layer cooked quinoa on a serving plate. Next, top it with the chicken salad mixture, then carefully arrange the halved eggs and drizzle the chilled dressing on top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.