Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe: Low-Calorie and Refreshing

LoveFoodReadyMeals – Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition and taste without any compromise. With tender grilled chicken providing lean protein, creamy avocado adding healthy fats, and a vibrant mix of vegetables like crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, this salad is both filling and refreshing. It’s the ideal choice for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal, whether it’s a quick lunch or a dinner that’s easy on the calories but big on flavor. Not only does it pack a punch of essential nutrients, but it also ensures you won’t feel weighed down, making it perfect for those with a busy lifestyle or anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious chicken salad, gather the following ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, skinless – lean protein that will fuel your body
1 tablespoon olive oil – for grilling the chicken and adding healthy fats
Salt and pepper – to taste
1 teaspoon paprika powder (optional) – adds a smoky flavor
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – for that extra savory kick
1 bowl of lettuce – you can use Romaine or baby spinach for a fresh base
1 tomato, diced – juicy and packed with vitamins
1 cucumber, thinly sliced – adds crunch and hydration
1/2 avocado, diced – creamy and full of healthy fats
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced – gives the salad a zesty bite
1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds (optional) – adds texture and nuttiness

For the Low-Calorie Dressing, you’ll need:

3 tablespoons low-fat plain yogurt – creamy base without the extra calories
1 teaspoon lemon juice – adds freshness and a slight tang
1 teaspoon mustard (optional) – for a subtle kick
Salt and pepper – to season the dressing to taste

Grilling the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika powder if desired. Preheat your grill pan or grilling pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices, making it easier to slice.

Preparing the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken is resting, you can prepare the salad ingredients. Rinse and dry the lettuce thoroughly to ensure there’s no excess water. Cut the tomato, cucumber, and avocado into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly for a nice balance of flavor and crunch.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the low-fat yogurt, lemon juice, and mustard (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. This tangy dressing will complement the fresh ingredients perfectly.

Assembling the Salad

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips. Arrange the lettuce as the base on your plate or bowl, then layer the sliced chicken on top. Add the diced tomato, cucumber, avocado, and red onion for color and flavor. If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle them on top for an extra crunch.

Serving Your Healthy Chicken Salad

Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently. This will ensure that every bite is flavorful and perfectly coated. The result is a low-calorie, high-protein chicken salad that’s both filling and refreshing, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.

Why This Salad is Great for You

This healthy chicken salad isn’t just delicious it’s also highly nutritious. The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and energy. The avocado offers healthy fats that support heart health, while the yogurt dressing gives a creamy touch without the heavy calories of traditional dressings. Plus, the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this salad a well-rounded meal.

Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe: Low-Calorie and Refreshing