This High Protein Chicken Salad is a deliciously satisfying meal with a Mediterranean twist. Packed with shredded rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, and Mediterranean ingredients like artichokes, black olives, and dill pickles, this salad is both nutritious and full of flavor. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking for a healthy, high-protein option that is quick and easy to make. Whether served in lettuce wraps, on whole wheat bread, or with crackers, this chicken salad is versatile, low-carb, and delicious!
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Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 large handful fresh dill, finely chopped
- ⅓ to ½ cup marinated artichokes, finely diced
- ⅓ to ½ cup black olives, finely diced
- ⅓ to ½ cup dill pickles, finely diced
- ¾ to 1 cup thick Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinches of salt and black pepper
Directions
- Shred or dice the rotisserie chicken into fine pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Finely chop the dill, then add it to the bowl along with the artichokes, black olives, and dill pickles.
- Add the Greek yogurt, starting with ¾ cup and adding more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper.
- Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-combined.
- Serve your chicken salad on lettuce wraps, whole wheat bread, or with crackers for a quick and healthy meal.
Nutrients
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 38g
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
A Mediterranean Twist on Classic Chicken Salad
The combination of ingredients in this High Protein Chicken Salad brings out the best of Mediterranean flavors while keeping the dish light, yet filling. Traditional chicken salads often rely on mayonnaise or heavy dressings to bind the ingredients together, but this recipe uses Greek yogurt as the base, offering a healthier, protein-rich alternative. Greek yogurt not only adds creaminess but also boosts the nutritional value with added protein, making this chicken salad an excellent choice for those seeking to maintain or build muscle.
What makes this chicken salad truly special is the incorporation of Mediterranean ingredients that elevate its flavor profile. Marinated artichokes, black olives, and dill pickles bring a burst of tanginess and depth, while fresh dill adds a hint of aromatic freshness. Together, these ingredients create a vibrant, savory salad that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Why This Chicken Salad Is Perfect for Your Health Goals
When it comes to healthy eating, getting enough protein is essential. This High Protein Chicken Salad delivers on that front, with the rotisserie chicken providing a substantial amount of high-quality, lean protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance. Paired with the Greek yogurt, this salad provides an impressive protein content of 38g per serving. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, maintain muscle, or simply nourish your body, this salad has got you covered.
In addition to being high in protein, this chicken salad is also low in carbs and packed with healthy fats from the olives and the olive oil used in the marinated artichokes. The fiber content from the dill pickles, artichokes, and Greek yogurt helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. This makes the salad not only a great lunch or dinner option but also a filling snack that will curb your hunger without weighing you down.
Versatility and Serving Options
One of the best aspects of the High Protein Chicken Salad is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preference or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to serve this salad:
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Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, gluten-free option, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps. The crisp lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy salad, making it a perfect light lunch or snack.
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Whole Wheat Bread: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve the chicken salad on whole wheat bread for a healthy sandwich option. The whole grains in the bread add extra fiber, making it a more satisfying meal.
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With Crackers: For a quick snack, you can pair the chicken salad with whole grain crackers. This adds a bit of crunch while still keeping the meal light and healthy.
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In a Bowl: If you’re short on time or want to enjoy the chicken salad as is, simply serve it in a bowl for a satisfying meal that requires no extra prep. You can even top it with extra veggies for a more balanced dish.
A Quick and Easy Meal for Busy Days
Another great benefit of this recipe is its ease of preparation. Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on cooking time, making this salad a quick and convenient meal option. With minimal chopping and a few simple ingredients, this salad comes together in less than 15 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you need a meal that doesn’t require much effort.
You can make this chicken salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious as it sits. This makes it perfect for meal prepping for the week or preparing a quick lunch that you can grab and go.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The key ingredients in this High Protein Chicken Salad are not only delicious but also provide numerous health benefits:
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Rotisserie Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken is rich in B vitamins (especially niacin and B6), which help with energy production and metabolism. It also provides iron and zinc, which are vital for immune function.
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Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics. The probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, supporting digestion and boosting immunity. Additionally, Greek yogurt is lower in sugar than traditional yogurt, making it a healthier choice.
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Artichokes: Artichokes are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They support liver health, improve digestion, and promote heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
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Black Olives: Black olives are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. They also contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
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Dill Pickles: Dill pickles are a good source of vitamin K and electrolytes. They can also provide a satisfying crunch, making them a great addition to any salad.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The High Protein Chicken Salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option for the week, or as part of a larger spread for a party, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s light yet filling, and its combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors will appeal to a wide variety of palates.
Its Mediterranean influences make it a refreshing spring or summer meal, but it’s hearty enough to enjoy year-round. With its low-carb and nutritious ingredients, it also fits into many popular diets, including low-carb, keto, paleo, and whole30.
Conclusion: A Nutritious and Flavorful Meal for All
In conclusion, the High Protein Chicken Salad is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s easy to make and packed with healthy ingredients. The combination of rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, and Mediterranean ingredients makes for a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a filling dinner, or a snack that keeps you full, this chicken salad is the perfect choice. Enjoy it in wraps, sandwiches, or with crackers for a meal that is both healthy and incredibly flavorful.