This Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken and crunchy veggies, all dressed in a creamy green goddess sauce. Perfect for a light lunch!
What I love about this salad is how colorful it is—like a rainbow on my plate! 🌈 Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, making it a go-to for busy days when I want something yummy but easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Shredded leftover chicken works too. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or shredded tofu make a great substitute!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: Mayo adds creaminess, but you can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a healthier kick. If you’re vegan, try a plant-based mayo or unsweetened yogurt.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, and tarragon are traditional. If you don’t have tarragon, try dill or basil for a different taste. You can also use dried herbs, but fresh ones are way better!
Anchovy Paste: This is optional, but it adds a unique depth. If you want a vegetarian option, use a little extra garlic or nutritional yeast for a flavor boost.
How Do I Make the Perfect Green Goddess Dressing?
The dressing is key to this salad, and making it right is simple! Start with fresh herbs for the best flavor. Blend them with garlic and citrus and then mix in mayo and sour cream for that creamy texture.
- Use a food processor or blender to finely chop the herbs and garlic first, ensuring they’re well combined.
- Then, add the mayo and sour cream to create a smooth dressing. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water or more lemon juice, if needed.
- Taste and tweak with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice until it’s just right!
How to Make Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh chives
- 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, for authentic Green Goddess flavor)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Time Estimate:
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a creamy and flavorful salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing:
In a food processor or blender, add the fresh parsley, chives, tarragon, minced garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, and anchovy paste (if you’re using it). Blend until everything is finely chopped and well mixed.
2. Mix in the Creaminess:
Add the mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the food processor. Blend again until you have a smooth and creamy dressing, with a beautiful green color. This is your Green Goddess dressing that makes the salad so tasty!
3. Combine Chicken with Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, take your shredded chicken and pour in the Green Goddess dressing. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with that creamy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Taste your chicken salad and season with salt and pepper as desired. Stir again for an even flavor.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those delicious flavors blend together beautifully!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad on a bed of fresh lettuce, with crunchy crackers, or piled high in a sandwich. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful delight!
There you have it—a simple and delicious recipe for Easy Green Goddess Chicken Salad that’s sure to please! Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just chop or shred it before mixing it into the salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or shredded tofu for a hearty vegetarian option. Just make sure you have enough dressing to coat them well.
What Can I Serve with Green Goddess Chicken Salad?
This salad is versatile! Serve it over a bed of greens, in a sandwich or wrap, or with crackers. You could also pair it with fresh veggies for a crunchy, healthy side!
