Healthy Chicken Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing

Enjoy a nutritious and delicious Healthy Chicken Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing. This salad combines tender, seasoned chicken breast with fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing, making it a perfect light meal or satisfying side dish. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • Skinless Chicken Breast: 1
  • Oil: 1-2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Chili Flakes: 1 teaspoon
  • Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Thyme or Parsley: 1/2 teaspoon

For the Salad:

  • Cucumber: 1/2, chopped
  • Onion: 1, chopped
  • Lettuce Leaves: 4-5, chopped
  • Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
  • Olives: 2-3, sliced

For the Dressing:

  • Low-Fat Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
  • Low-Fat Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup
  • Black Pepper Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 teaspoons
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Parsley: 1/2 teaspoon, chopped

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, chili flakes, ginger-garlic paste, and thyme or parsley.
    • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, onion, lettuce, tomato, and olives.
  3. Mix the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, salt, and parsley until smooth.
  4. Combine:
    • Add the cooked chicken to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Serve:
    • Chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving, if desired, to allow flavors to meld.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Calories: 220 per serving
  • Servings: 4 servings

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner.
  • Pair with whole-grain bread or a side of quinoa for a more substantial meal.
  • Enjoy alongside a bowl of soup for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Tips:

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Customize the salad by adding other fresh vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Chicken: High in protein and low in fat.
  • Greek Yogurt: Rich in probiotics and calcium.
  • Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Dietary Information:

  • Low-Calorie: Only 220 kcal per serving, making it a great option for a light meal.
  • High-Protein: A great source of lean protein from the chicken and Greek yogurt.
  • Low-Carb: Suitable for low-carb diets if served without bread or grains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Flavorful: A delicious combination of seasoned chicken and a tangy, creamy dressing.
  • Versatile: Great as a main dish or a side, and easily customizable.

Conclusion:

This Healthy Chicken Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing is a delightful and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any time of day. With its fresh ingredients and flavorful dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delicious taste and health benefits of this wonderful salad, and feel good about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.