Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a great option for meal prep, a light yet filling lunch, or a nutritious side dish. The combination of textures—from the crunch of broccoli and nuts to the creamy dressing—makes this a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (grilled or rotisserie)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
½ cup shredded carrots
½ cup diced red onion
½ cup chopped celery
½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
⅓ cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds
For the Creamy Dressing
½ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer taste)
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
1. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it: Bring a pot of water to a boil, drop in the chopped broccoli for 30 seconds, then drain and rinse with cold water to keep it crisp. (This step is optional but enhances the texture.)
2. Shred or dice the cooked chicken.
3. Toast the almonds or sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
2. Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, chicken, shredded carrots, red onion, celery, cranberries, and nuts/seeds.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
3. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320-350 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 16g
Sugar: 8g (from cranberries and honey)
Sodium: 400mg (varies based on salt and ingredients used)
Notes & Variations
Make it Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or replace it with extra olive oil and a bit more vinegar.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the dried cranberries or use unsweetened ones.
Extra Crunch: Add crumbled bacon or more toasted nuts.
Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get better as it sits!
Serving Ideas: Serve on its own, in a lettuce wrap, or as a filling for a sandwich or wrap.
This creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet broccoli and chicken salad is a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal with minimal effort. Enjoy!