High-Protein Chicken Salad
This creamy, savory high-protein chicken salad combines tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, lettuce wraps, or a satisfying low-carb meal.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes for eggs and bacon, if not already prepared
Total time: 10–20 minutes
- 2 lbs (900 g) rotisserie chicken, shredded and skin removed if desired
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion, optional
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
Remove the bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the bacon and eggs
Cook the bacon until crispy, drain excess grease, and crumble it. Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs.
3. Make the creamy dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Combine the ingredients
Add the bacon, chopped eggs, celery, and red onion to the shredded chicken. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
5. Mix well
Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Chill and serve
Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve in lettuce cups, alongside cucumber slices, or over a bed of leafy greens.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Use within 3–4 days.
- Divide into individual portions for convenient lunches.
- Keep the salad chilled during transport and avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving, assuming 6 servings:
- Calories: 400–470
- Protein: 40–48 g
- Total carbohydrates: 2–4 g
- Fat: 24–30 g
- Net carbs: Approximately 2–4 g
Values vary with the chicken, mayonnaise, yogurt, and bacon used.
Tips for a Healthier Version
- Use light mayonnaise or replace some of it with Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
- Add extra celery, cucumber, or fresh herbs for crunch and flavor.
- Choose lean chicken breast for a lower-fat option.
- Serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread for a low-carb lunch.
Why you’ll love it: This chicken salad is protein-rich, filling, and naturally low in carbohydrates. It can fit a weight-loss plan when portions and total daily calorie intake are considered.
