This High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is honestly the kind of meal prep gem I wish I’d discovered years ago. Packed with tender chicken breast, a creamy yet refreshing Greek yogurt dressing, crisp veggies, and a touch of crunch from nuts (if you like!), it’s the answer to your lunchtime prayers. You get flavor, texture, and legit staying power all in one bowl — and it’s just as perfect spread onto a sandwich as it is scooped onto greens. A true everyday hero for anyone craving a healthy, protein-rich boost!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how the simplest mix of everyday staples comes together in this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe! Each ingredient plays a special role, bringing either juiciness, tang, crunch, or color to every bite — and together, they create something far more exciting than the sum of their parts.
- Chicken breast (2 cups, cooked and shredded or chopped): Opt for rotisserie or meal-prepped chicken for ultimate convenience and maximum protein per serving.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): This creamy base is the magic behind the high protein content and tangy flavor.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): A little mayo adds richness and classic flavor, but you can skip it for an even lighter salad!
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings essential sharpness and a hint of heat to brighten the dressing.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A squeeze of fresh lemon lifts and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle savory depth—perfect for bringing out the chicken’s flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to highlight the other ingredients without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick that ties everything together.
- Celery (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Classic crunch and refreshing taste in every forkful.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Pops of color and a spicy-sweet bite that livens up the mix.
- Chopped almonds or walnuts (1/4 cup, optional): For an optional nutty crunch and more protein—totally up to you!
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): A bright, herbal finish that makes this salad as pretty as it is tasty.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl — you’ll need room for all that deliciousness! Add your Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is smooth and fully combined. This tangy, rich dressing is what gives the High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe its signature creamy texture, without the heaviness of all-mayo versions.
Step 2: Fold in the Chicken and Veggies
Add your cooked, shredded chicken breast right to the bowl, along with the finely chopped celery, red onion, and nuts (if using). Gently fold until everything is well coated in the savory dressing. You’ll notice how the colors and textures start to mingle, looking instantly crave-worthy. Take a tiny taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed!
Step 3: Chill to Meld the Flavors
For maximum flavor (and the very best texture), cover your salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This lets the dressing soak into the chicken and veggies, blending the flavors for that irresistible just-made taste you find in perfect deli salads. If you’re meal prepping, it’s even better the next day!
Step 4: Finish & Serve
When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle your High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe with fresh chopped parsley. Scoop it onto whole grain bread, into lettuce wraps, or pair it with your favorite crackers—you honestly can’t go wrong! Every bite will be cool, creamy, and full of bold flavor.
How to Serve High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the final flourish! A scattering of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, and if you’re feeling fancy, a few extra toasted nuts or a pinch of black pepper on top can make your High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe look straight out of a cozy café. For a zesty kick, a squeeze of fresh lemon works wonders right before serving.
Side Dishes
This protein-packed salad shines when paired with light, bright sides. Try a pile of leafy greens tossed with a simple vinaigrette, a serving of fresh fruit, or a handful of whole-wheat crackers. If you’re making lunch for a crowd, a quinoa salad or roasted veggies would complement it perfectly and keep things super satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Honestly, this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is the ultimate meal prep chameleon. Spoon it into lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch, stuff it into a halved avocado for a wow-worthy platter, or roll it up in a whole-grain tortilla for a hearty wrap. You can even serve small scoops on cucumber rounds or toast for delightful appetizer bites!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it keeps! Transfer any leftover High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh, creamy, and delicious for up to three days — perfect for prepping lunches or snacks in advance. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.
Freezing
While some salads freeze well, unfortunately, this isn’t one of them. The Greek yogurt and mayo-based dressing can separate when thawed and turn a bit grainy. For best results (and best taste), enjoy your High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe freshly made or refrigerated only.
Reheating
This salad is made to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no reheating necessary! Simply let it sit out for a few minutes after pulling it from the fridge if you prefer a softer texture. If you do need to slightly warm leftovers for a sandwich melt, use very low heat and watch closely to prevent the dressing from curdling.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely — rotisserie chicken is a smart shortcut for this salad! Just shred or chop it and you’re good to go. It adds a subtle roasted flavor and makes throwing together this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe even faster.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute sour cream, skyr, or even a thick plain yogurt. Keep in mind, Greek yogurt keeps the salad extra creamy and boosts the protein, but other options still deliver a tasty salad.
Can I make this salad completely mayo-free?
Yes! Simply omit the mayonnaise and use all Greek yogurt for the dressing. You’ll still get a creamy texture and loads of protein, making this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe lighter but just as flavorful.
How can I boost the protein even more?
For an extra punch of protein, try adding a chopped hard-boiled egg to the mix. You could also toss in a bit more chicken or a spoonful of hemp hearts—this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is super flexible to whatever you’ve got on hand.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve it in gluten-free lettuce cups or with gluten-free crackers. The main salad ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — a crave-worthy, flexible, and totally satisfying High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s a meal prep MVP, a healthy lunch lifesaver, and a surefire way to never get bored with chicken. Give it a try, and let it become one of your go-to recipes for any busy week!
