This Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty meal! Made with juicy chicken, crisp greens, and a creamy green goddess dressing, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
I love how quick this salad is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a healthy dish that makes you feel good while tasting great. Plus, extra dressing is always a win! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is perfect for this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftovers work just as well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey is a good substitute.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the salad. If you want a lighter version, opt for Greek yogurt. It adds great flavor and protein while reducing calories.
Sour Cream: You can replace sour cream with plain yogurt for a tangy touch or even skip it and use more mayo if you prefer a creamier salad.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley, chives, and tarragon for their fresh taste. If you can’t find tarragon, basil is a wonderful alternative that still brings vibrant flavor.
Anchovy Fillets: These add depth to the dressing but are optional. If you’re not a fan, skip them, or consider using a splash of Worcestershire sauce instead for a similar umami punch.
How Do I Make the Perfect Green Goddess Dressing?
Getting the dressing right is key for this salad! Here’s a simple method to ensure it’s tasty and builds layers of flavor.
- Start by mixing the mayonnaise and sour cream (or yogurt) to create a smooth base. This makes a nice, creamy dressing.
- Add your chopped herbs next. Fresh herbs really enhance the flavors, so don’t skimp on them!
- Mix in the garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and anchovies (if using), and stir until everything is well combined.
- Finally, taste and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust to your preference; you may want more lemon juice for brightness.
- Let the dressing sit for a while to marry the flavors before adding it to the chicken.
Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (or substitute basil)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 anchovy fillets (optional, finely minced)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped celery or scallions for extra crunch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you can have this delicious salad ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Creamy Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will form the delicious base of your Green Goddess dressing.
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add the chopped fresh parsley, chives, and tarragon to the bowl. Gently mix them in, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. Their fresh flavors will give the salad a vibrant taste.
3. Create the Dressing:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and the anchovy fillets if you’re using them. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are combined and you have a lovely green goddess dressing.
4. Combine With Chicken:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and gently fold it into the dressing until all the chicken is well coated. Make sure the chicken is evenly mixed and covered with the tasty green goddess dressing.
5. Season and Crunch:
Season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you want some extra crunch, add in some chopped celery or scallions and give it another gentle mix.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
7. Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your Green Goddess Chicken Salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers. It’s fresh, creamy, and oh-so-delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this salad. You can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
What Can I Substitute for Anchovies?
If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can simply skip them! Alternatively, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of fish sauce can provide a similar umami flavor without the fishy taste.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify, making it even more delicious the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for up to a day before serving. Just be sure to keep it covered and stir gently before serving to ensure it’s well mixed.
