Chickpea Chicken Salad
This Chickpea Chicken Salad combines tender shredded chicken, hearty chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a bright Mediterranean-inspired dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, a light dinner, or a protein-packed lunch, and it can be enjoyed in a bowl, wrap, or on toast.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red bell pepper, diced
¼ red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
For the Dressing
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, then bake or poach until fully cooked (about 15 minutes). Shred or cube.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and olives.
Pour dressing over and toss gently.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh herbs.
4. Serve
Enjoy immediately or chill for 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve on its own, with whole-grain pita, or over greens.
Notes & Tips
Meal Prep: Stays fresh for 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
Protein Boost: Add boiled eggs or extra chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
Crunch Factor: Add diced celery, sunflower seeds, or toasted pine nuts.
Wrap It Up: Makes a great filling for whole-grain wraps or pita pockets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — simply skip the feta or use vegan feta.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh-cooked chicken has better texture and flavor.
Q: Can I replace chickpeas?
White beans or lentils work well as alternatives.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~370
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 4 g