When it comes to preparing quick, nutritious, and flavorful meals, this Feta Chicken Salad stands out as a true savior. Ideal for anyone looking to cut back on dining out while still enjoying delicious, homemade meals, this salad is packed with lean protein, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, herb-infused dressing. It’s not just a lunch option—it’s a versatile dish perfect for picnics, meal prepping, or a light dinner.
What makes this salad unique is the combination of shredded chicken with the tangy flavor of feta, the aromatic herbs, and the crunch of fresh vegetables like red onion, red pepper, and celery. The creamy dressing, spiced with dill, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper, binds the ingredients together, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.
Ready in no time, this recipe is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a healthy, protein-rich dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you enjoy it on its own, stuffed in a wrap, or served over greens, this Feta Chicken Salad will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for meal prep and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and crunchy vegetables.
- Flavorful: The feta and herb dressing adds a tangy, creamy kick.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a salad, sandwich filling, or even in a lettuce wrap.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge, perfect for quick lunches.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie or any cooked chicken)
- ½ small red onion, diced (for sharpness and flavor)
- ½ red pepper, diced (adds sweetness and crunch)
- 3 celery stalks, diced (for freshness and texture)
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (creates a creamy base)
- ½ cup feta crumbles (adds tangy, salty flavor)
- 2 teaspoons dried dill (for a herby touch)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds earthy depth)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle garlic flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (to balance the flavors)
- Salt to taste (enhances all flavors)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
- Prepare the Chicken: If not already done, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using forks or your hands.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the red onion, red pepper, and celery stalks into small, even pieces for uniformity and ease of mixing.
- Mix Together: Place the shredded chicken, diced red onion, diced red pepper, and diced celery in a large mixing bowl. Toss them together gently to ensure they are evenly combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, feta crumbles, dried dill, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix Well: Stir the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the mayonnaise. Adjust the salt to taste.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
- Add Dressing to Chicken: Spoon the prepared mayonnaise dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- Mix Gently: Use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated without breaking the chicken pieces.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling period helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir and serve it cold. It pairs well with crackers, wraps, sandwiches, or fresh salad greens.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Feta Chicken Salad
- Shred Chicken Easily: Use two forks to shred warm chicken easily, or use a hand mixer for larger batches.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh dill or oregano can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Use triple the amount if substituting fresh for dried.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy lift.
- Make It Creamier: For a richer dressing, mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt with the mayonnaise.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to chill for a few hours for deeper flavor development.
Substitutions & Variations
- Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or almonds.
- Herb Variations: Try using basil, thyme, or parsley for different herbaceous flavors.
- Vegetable Swaps: Swap the red pepper for diced cucumber or add grated carrots for extra texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for some heat.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegan mayo and plant-based feta.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it a day in advance, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually intensify when given time to meld.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze this chicken salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, which can become watery and lose texture upon thawing.
4. What can I serve with this salad?
- Wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Spread it on whole-grain toast for an open-faced sandwich.
- Serve it with crackers or pita bread for a snack.
- Stuff it into a croissant for a decadent lunch.
5. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great, convenient option that adds extra flavor to the salad.
Nutritional Information
(Values are approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy and mayonnaise content.
- Serving: Give the salad a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Conclusion
This Feta Chicken Salad is a true mealtime hero, especially for those looking to prepare healthier meals at home. It’s flavorful, packed with protein, and full of crunchy, fresh vegetables that add both texture and nutrition. The creamy dressing, highlighted by feta and herbs, ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Versatile and easy to customize, this salad can be enjoyed in many ways—whether stuffed into a wrap, piled onto toast, or served as a side dish. Plus, its simplicity makes it ideal for busy days, meal prepping, or just enjoying a quick and delicious lunch.
By making this salad at home, you’ll save time, money, and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty. Give it a try and experience the fresh, satisfying flavors for yourself!