Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats, this salad supports a well-rounded diet.
• Flavorful Homemade Dressing: The Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing is both creamy and tangy, enhancing the overall taste without compromising on health.
• Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes, it's perfect for a wholesome meal on busy days.

Ingredients

• 1 lb 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 tomatoes, halved
• ½ English cucumber, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ⅓ cup corn (fresh or canned)

Homemade Ranch Dressing

• 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Sea salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ranch Dressing: In a small jar, combine all the dressing ingredients. Secure the lid and shake well to emulsify.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Pour about one-third of the prepared dressing over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. Refrigerate the remaining dressing until ready to use.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, arrange the greens. Top with sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, avocado, corn, and cooked chicken.
5. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the reserved ranch dressing over the salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch dressing for a spicy kick.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in roasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or croutons for added texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dressing.
• Protein Boost: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: If using leftover chicken, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the chicken.
• Meal Prep: Keep all ingredients prepped and stored separately, then assemble just before eating for the freshest taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from getting soggy.

2. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought ranch will work just fine.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop it before adding it to the salad.

4. What other greens can I use?

You can use romaine, spinach, arugula, or a mix of your favorite leafy greens.

5. How do I make this salad keto-friendly?

Omit the corn and use a full-fat Greek yogurt for the dressing to keep it low-carb.

6. Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes! Grilled chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor to this salad.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients like Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free.

8. How can I make the dressing thinner?

Add a little bit of milk or water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

9. What other vegetables can I add?

Bell peppers, shredded carrots, radishes, or even roasted sweet potatoes would be great additions.

10. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Conclusion

This Healthy Ranch Chicken Salad is a perfect combination of freshness, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s an easy and delicious way to eat healthily without compromising on taste. Try it today and customize it to fit your preferences!