Name: Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast, cut into small bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 4 Cups Packed Greens of choice; ¼ small Red Onion, sliced; ¾ Cup Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; ½ English Cucumber, sliced or chopped; 1 Avocado, sliced; ⅓ Cup Corn, Fresh or canned; 1 Cup Plain non-fat Greek yogurt; 2-3 Cloves Garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice; 2 tablespoons Onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard; 2 tablespoons Fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Fresh dill, finely chopped; Sea salt and pepper, to taste

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Craving something fresh and rejuvenating for your soul? Enter the world of Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad. Imagine delightful bites of tender chicken, enriched by a homemade dressing that sings with a medley of herbs. This Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad doesn’t just bet on flavors; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients. Fresh greens meet succulent chicken, bringing a delightful twist to your healthy meals with chicken. It’s a tangy and satisfying escape into simple culinary bliss that your taste buds and body will thank you for.

Growing up, summers at Grandma’s meant endless hours of sunshine and playful laughter in the backyard, often accompanied by her signature ranch chicken salad. The aroma of freshly grilled chicken mingling with earthy greens was the essence of our carefree afternoons. Each bite was a burst of love and memory, as she would tell stories of her own childhood in the garden. Now, each time I prepare this salad, it’s as if I’m stirring together threads of nostalgia and comfort, eagerly sharing a piece of those precious moments with my own family.

For a delightful meal, consider treating yourself to this vibrant BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad or a succulent Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wrap. Each recipe brings a fresh and healthy twist that pairs perfectly with the nutritious elements of a healthy ranch chicken salad.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

Easy to make: This recipe involves simple steps and no fancy tools. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find it easy to master.
Flexible: Swap out ingredients or add your favorites. It’s perfect for personalizing to fit different tastes and diets.
Great for busy days: Whether for a family meal, guests, or a quick bite, it’s effortless and satisfying.
Nutritious and tasty: Combining wholesome ingredients in a delightful way, this salad is both healthy and delicious.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowl
Non-stick Pan
Sharp Knife
Cutting Board
Measuring Cups
Whisk or Shaker

Step 1: Preparation for the Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

Chicken Breast, 1 pound, cut into small bite-sized pieces
Olive Oil, 1 tablespoon
4 Cups Packed Greens of choice
Red Onion, ¼ small, sliced
¾ Cup Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
½ English Cucumber, sliced or chopped
1 Avocado, sliced
⅓ Cup Corn, Fresh or canned
1 Cup Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
2-3 Cloves Garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons Onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
2 tablespoons Fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon Fresh dill, finely chopped
Sea salt and pepper, to taste

Step 2: Cooking the Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

To begin, prepare your homemade ranch dressing by combining the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, finely chopped onion, Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Secure the lid and shake well to mix. Use about one-third of the dressing to marinade the chicken, letting it soak for at least 15 minutes. Keep the rest of the dressing in the refrigerator until needed.

Next, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook them until they’re golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assembling and Finishing

Now it’s time to assemble your salad. In a large bowl, place the packed greens as your base layer. Add the sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, sliced avocado, and corn. Top everything with the cooked chicken. Before serving, drizzle the remaining homemade ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Tips for the Best Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad Every Time

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and veggies enhance the flavor and health quotient of your salad.
Marinate your chicken: For an extra burst of flavor, let your chicken marinate for a little longer if you have time.
Toss just before serving: To keep your greens crisp, toss the salad with dressing right before eating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken: To maintain tenderness, cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside.
Using too much dressing: Use enough dressing to coat the ingredients lightly without overwhelming them.
Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is not meant to be skipped as it truly enhances the flavor.

Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish

Swap proteins: Try shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh as an alternative to chicken.
Add nuts or seeds: Sunflower seeds or almonds add a delightful crunchiness.
Include more veggies: Add bell peppers or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition.

Occasions Perfect for This Recipe

Family Gatherings: Delicious and healthy, this salad is a hit with all age groups.
Summer Picnics: Refreshing and light, it’s perfect for warm weather outings.
Potlucks or BBQ Parties: This dish is visually appealing and flavorful, making it a standout side dish.

FAQs About Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

Q: How do you make a healthy chicken salad?

A: To make a healthy chicken salad, focus on using fresh ingredients like lean grilled chicken, a variety of vibrant veggies, and a homemade ranch dressing with Greek yogurt for a nutritious twist.

Q: Can you use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo?

A: Absolutely! Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayo. It offers a creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein, making it a healthy choice for your salad dressing.

Q: What can I add to ranch chicken salad?

A: Feel free to get creative! Add-ins like avocado, nuts, seeds, or extra veggies such as bell peppers or carrots can enhance flavor and add nutritional value.

Q: Is putting ranch on salad healthy?

A: Using a homemade ranch dressing made with Greek yogurt can be a healthier choice. It provides a creamy taste with less fat and more protein compared to traditional store-bought ranch dressings.

Q: How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?

A: Chicken salad can typically last up to 3–4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving to freshen up the ingredients.

Conclusion

Embracing the delightful flavors of this Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad means more than just enjoying a meal; it’s about indulging in a nourishing dish that fills you with energy and joy. With its simple preparation and fresh ingredients, this salad caters to your wellness without sacrificing taste. Ready to explore more culinary delights? Don’t miss out on our irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders to round out your meal! We hope this recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones around the table and create memorable dining experiences together.

Give it a try and let us know how you liked it, or save it for later to ensure your next lunch or dinner is both healthy and delicious. Happy cooking!