If you are searching for a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe. It combines tender grilled chicken with crunchy, fresh vegetables and a bright lemony dressing to create a colorful meal loaded with over 30 grams of protein per serving. Whether you want a quick lunch or a wholesome option for meal prep, this salad is a perfect blend of taste, texture, and health benefits that will leave you energized and satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a creamy, chunky mixture with visible pieces of light yellow, shredded texture combined with small bits of red onion and celery, giving a mix of soft, moist, and crunchy textures. A woman's hand holds the bowl from the side, while a metallic spoon with a green handle is dipped into the mixture, resting in the bowl. The background features a soft, white marbled surface under bright natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Every element adds a specific layer to the dish, from the fresh greens providing a crisp base to the creamy avocado lending richness, and the grilled chicken offering a protein-packed punch. Here’s a straightforward list that’s easy to gather but essential for making this salad truly shine.

2 cups mixed greens: A fresh and crunchy foundation that adds vibrant color and a variety of nutrients.
1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced: Lean and high in protein, this is the star ingredient that fills you up.
½ cup cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet bursts of flavor that balance the savory components.
¼ cup cucumber slices: Crisp and refreshing for added texture and hydration.
¼ avocado, diced: Creamy, healthy fats that keep you satisfied and add lushness to every bite.
2 tbsp feta or goat cheese: Tangy and salty notes that elevate the overall taste of the salad.
1 tbsp olive oil: A smooth, heart-healthy fat that brings everything together smoothly.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Bright and zesty acidity to balance the richness and enhance flavors.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, rounding out the dish perfectly.

How to Make Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by ensuring your chicken breast is cooked and sliced thinly. Freshness matters for this salad, so rinse and dry your mixed greens thoroughly to avoid sogginess later on. Slice your cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, and dice the avocado carefully to keep it intact and creamy.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Place the mixed greens as the base of your bowl or plate. This will give you a solid, crisp foundation to build on while maximizing the salad’s vibrant color and texture contrast. Make sure they form an even layer to support the toppings.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Vegetables

Arrange the sliced chicken breast evenly across the greens. Then sprinkle the cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices on top. This layering method keeps flavors distinct and allows each bite to contain a variety of ingredients.

Step 4: Top with Avocado and Cheese

Scatter the diced avocado and crumble the feta or goat cheese over the salad. The creamy avocado and tangy cheese bring depth and richness that perfectly complement the lightness of the greens and chicken.

Step 5: Dress and Toss Gently

Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to combine without bruising the delicate greens or mashing the avocado, ensuring each mouthful is fresh and flavorful.

How to Serve Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers visible: at the bottom, bright green leafy lettuce forms the base with a crisp texture; the middle layer has evenly cut white cubes of chicken mixed with small chunks of orange and red crab sticks; scattered around throughout are walnut pieces and purple grapes adding texture and color contrast. The ingredients have a fresh and bright look, mixed evenly, showing a variety of natural colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds adds a delightful crunch and enhances the protein content. Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil provide a fragrant touch, making your salad not only delicious but also visually enticing.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with a warm, crusty whole grain bread or pita for a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables or a light soup can also complement the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the chicken salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salad in a hollowed-out avocado half or stacked in a mason jar for meal prep convenience. These presentation ideas make the dish not only practical for on-the-go meals but also a stunner for casual lunch gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the crispness of the greens, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Consume within 2 days for best texture and flavor.

Freezing

While freezing is not recommended for salads with fresh greens and avocado due to texture changes, cooked chicken can be frozen separately and quickly thawed when ready to use. Assemble fresh salads around your thawed chicken for optimal taste.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and may compromise texture. If you want to warm the chicken, remove it from the salad and gently heat it before adding it back into your fresh ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful shortcut that works perfectly in this Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe and saves time without sacrificing taste.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad contains mainly lean protein and vegetables with healthy fats, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb eating plan.

What can I substitute for feta or goat cheese?

If you prefer, you can use shredded parmesan, blue cheese, or leave the cheese out entirely to keep the salad lighter while still maintaining great flavor.

How can I add more fiber to this salad?

Mix in cooked quinoa or a handful of chickpeas for extra fiber and texture without compromising the protein content and freshness of the salad.

Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

To adapt the recipe, swap chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and choose plant-based cheese alternatives. This way, you still get a protein-rich, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a fresh, hearty meal anytime. Its balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients makes it a personal favorite to share with friends and family. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to salad for lunch or light dinner!