This high-protein chicken salad recipe is perfect for meal prep or bringing to a get-together. It’s lighter, healthier, and made with Greek yogurt instead of mayo, but still packed with flavor. Featuring roasted chicken, poblano peppers, kalamata olives, and fresh herbs, this dish is versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or just enjoying by the bowl.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 whole hen or chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
2–3 tsp kosher salt
1–2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
For the Salad Mix:
2–3 poblano peppers, diced
2–3 celery stalks, sliced
1 small purple onion, diced
3–4 green onions, sliced
2 tbsp kalamata olives, chopped
Cooked chicken meat (shredded, skin optional)
For the Dressing:
2–3 tbsp Dijon mustard
3–4 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
2–3 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tsp Mrs. Dash Garlic & Herb seasoning (or similar blend)
1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Recipe
Roast the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
Pat the chicken dry and season on all sides with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
Roast uncovered for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before shredding.
Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice celery.
Dice purple onion and poblano peppers.
Slice green onions.
Chop kalamata olives.
Shred the Chicken
Remove skin if desired (tear into bite-size pieces if including).
Shred the meat, making sure to include both white and dark meat for flavor.
Assemble the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, celery, onions, poblano, green onions, and olives.
Season with Mrs. Dash, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well before adding the dressing.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and Greek yogurt.
Adjust ratios to taste.
Combine and Mix
Add the dressing to the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Fold everything together until evenly coated.
Serve
Enjoy as a sandwich filling, with crackers, in a wrap, or as a protein-packed salad on its own.