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High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe

4.5 from 66 reviews

This High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Salad combines tender canned chicken with fresh cucumber, tangy feta, and briny olives, all wrapped in a creamy, zesty dressing of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Greek seasoning. It’s a quick, flavorful, and nutrient-packed salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering a delicious balance of creamy textures and Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 12.5 oz canned chicken (Swanson Premium recommended for texture)
  • 6 tbsp feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (Fage Total 5%)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s preferred for creaminess)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/3 cup cucumber, diced into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 2 tbsp olives, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

Seasonings and Condiments

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2.5 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 3/4 tsp Greek seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice the cucumber into 1/4-inch pieces and finely mince the red onion to distribute its flavor evenly. Chop the fresh dill, crumble the feta cheese, and chop the olives. Preparing these ingredients beforehand ensures even mixing and a balanced flavor in each bite.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and Greek seasoning. Whisking these ingredients first helps create a smooth, creamy, and well-emulsified dressing that forms the base of the salad.
  3. Combine Chicken with Dressing: Drain canned chicken if packed in liquid, then add it to the dressing base. Gently fold the chicken into the dressing until fully coated, ensuring the flavors meld together without breaking the chicken apart.
  4. Add Vegetables and Finishing Touches: Fold in the diced cucumber, minced red onion, crumbled feta, chopped olives, and fresh dill carefully. Use a gentle hand to keep the feta chunks intact and the cucumber crisp, maintaining the salad’s texture and visual appeal.
  5. Serve or Chill: The salad is ready to serve immediately for a fresh, vibrant taste. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days to allow the flavors to meld beautifully for a richer, more pronounced Mediterranean flavor.

Notes

  • For best texture, use quality canned chicken such as Swanson Premium.
  • Finely mincing the red onion mellows its bite and ensures even flavor distribution.
  • Chilling the salad for a few hours enhances the flavor meld but can be served fresh.
  • Adjust the amount of Greek seasoning to taste, especially if your blend contains salt.
  • This salad can be served on its own, over greens, or as a filling for wraps.

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken salad, high protein salad, no-cook chicken salad, Greek chicken salad, healthy chicken recipes