If you’re craving a salad that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, the Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken chunks coated in a luscious, herb-packed Green Goddess dressing, layered over crisp mixed greens with bright tomatoes, creamy avocado, and refreshing cucumber. It’s like a garden party on your plate, perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and guaranteed to become your new favorite go-to whenever you want something wholesome, flavorful, and a little bit special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients each play a unique role in making this salad shine—juicy chicken provides hearty protein, the fresh herbs in the dressing bring vibrant green color and aromatic flavor, while the creamy avocado and crisp vegetables add delightful texture contrasts. Together, they create the perfect harmony that defines the Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ideal for tender, lean protein that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to coat the chicken before baking, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just a touch of spice to balance the dish.
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy base of the Green Goddess dressing, lending richness without heaviness.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Helps create a silky texture in the dressing while keeping it light.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a hint of citrusy zing.
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil: Enhances the dressing’s smoothness and boosts the herb flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Offers a subtle punch that wakes up the dressing.
- 2 anchovy fillets, optional, finely chopped: Provides umami depth—feel free to leave out if you’re not an anchovy fan.
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Gives a bright, green freshness that’s signature to a Green Goddess dressing.
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped: Adds gentle onion notes and a lovely pop of color.
- 1/4 cup fresh tarragon or basil, chopped: Choose your favorite herb for a distinctive twist and fragrant aroma.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To perfect the final flavor balance.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: The crisp foundation for the salad, adding crunch and volume.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten every bite.
- 1 small cucumber, sliced: Cool, crunchy slices that refresh the palate.
- 1 small avocado, sliced: Creamy pearls of indulgence that add richness and smooth texture.
How to Make Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken
Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking tray with parchment paper to keep things clean and prevent sticking. This sets the stage for perfectly cooked chicken that stays juicy and tender.
Step 2: Season and Bake Chicken
Rub your chicken breasts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper to build a simple yet flavorful crust. Place them on the prepared tray and bake for about 15 minutes until they reach that just-cooked, juicy perfection. Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes—it makes all the difference—then cut into chunky 3/4-inch pieces that will mingle beautifully with the other salad ingredients.
Step 3: Make the Green Goddess Dressing
While the chicken is baking, it’s time to blend up the star of this recipe—the Green Goddess dressing. In a blender or food processor combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and finely chopped anchovy fillets if you’re using them. Toss in all your fresh herbs—parsley, chives, and your choice of tarragon or basil—to pack the dressing with garden-fresh vibrancy. Blend everything until silky smooth, then season generously with salt and pepper. This vibrant dressing is what makes the Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Coat Chicken with Dressing
In a large bowl, toss the warm chicken chunks with about half of the freshly made dressing. This lets the chicken soak up all those herbal, tangy flavors while keeping it beautifully moist—not overly dressed, but perfectly flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble Your Salad
On a large platter or individual plates, layer your mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, and creamy avocado. Nestle the dressed chicken chunks right on top, creating a colorful, inviting presentation that’s as appetizing to look at as it is to eat.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Drizzle the remaining Green Goddess dressing over the salad for a luxurious last touch. Serve this immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their peak. This final step ensures every bite bursts with that signature Green Goddess magic.
How to Serve Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtful garnishes elevates this salad even further. Consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for extra crunch, or scatter a handful of fresh microgreens for a delicate, fresh finish. A small grating of lemon zest over the top can also brighten the dish beautifully and enhance the lemony notes in the dressing.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Serve alongside crusty whole-grain bread or garlic toast for some heartiness. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or crisp sparkling water with a splash of lime also makes the perfect refreshing accompaniment without overwhelming the bright flavors of the salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at gatherings, serve the Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe in hollowed-out avocado halves, crisp lettuce wraps, or even as a filling for warm pita pockets. Creating colorful individual salads in mason jars is also a trendy and delightful way to serve this dish when entertaining guests or prepping lunches ahead.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Store the chicken and dressing separately from the salad greens in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the greens from wilting. They will keep beautifully for up to 2 days.
Freezing
While the chicken itself freezes well, the salad components and dressing do not fare as nicely. For best results, freeze only the cooked chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then toss freshly with newly made dressing and greens for a quick and easy meal.
Reheating
To reheat the chicken, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly until just heated through—be careful not to overcook as you want to preserve its juiciness. After reheating, combine with fresh greens and the Green Goddess dressing for an almost fresh experience.
FAQs
Can I make the Green Goddess dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Giving it a quick stir before serving helps bring back its creamy consistency.
What if I don’t like anchovies?
No problem at all! Anchovies add a subtle umami boost, but they are optional. The salad will still be delicious and full of herbaceous flavor without them.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of baking chicken breasts?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and toss it with the dressing as directed for an easy weeknight version of this recipe.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Keep the components separate — chicken with dressing in one container, and salad greens with vegetables in another. Assemble right before eating for a fresh, crunchy meal any time of day.
What herbs can I substitute in the dressing?
Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs you love. If you don’t have tarragon, basil or even cilantro can make an excellent substitution, giving the dressing a slightly different but equally delightful flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
The Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe is a perfect celebration of fresh ingredients and bold, bright flavors that never gets old. Whether you’re cooking for friends, packing a thoughtful lunch, or simply craving something nourishing and delicious, this salad ticks all the boxes. Give it a try soon—you’ll find yourself coming back to its vibrant, creamy goodness again and again!
Print
Green Goddess Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Green Goddess Chicken Salad combines tender oven-baked chicken breast with a vibrant, creamy herb-packed Green Goddess dressing. Fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado bring crispness and color to this healthy, flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Salad
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1 small avocado, sliced
Green Goddess Dressing
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, optional, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh tarragon or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Station: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season and Bake Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Place them on the prepared baking tray, then bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices before cutting into 3/4-inch chunks.
- Prepare Green Goddess Dressing: While the chicken bakes, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped anchovy fillets (if using), fresh parsley, chives, and tarragon or basil in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Coat Chicken with Dressing: Place the chicken chunks in a large bowl and toss with half of the prepared Green Goddess dressing until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble Salad: Arrange the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and avocado slices on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with the dressed chicken.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the remaining Green Goddess dressing over the salad as desired. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its freshness and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.
- Anchovy fillets add authentic umami flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Fresh herbs are key to the dressing’s bright flavor—feel free to experiment with basil, tarragon, or parsley based on preference.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after baking keeps it juicy and tender.
- This salad makes an excellent meal prep option if dressing is added just before serving to keep greens crisp.
