Are you craving a light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful salad but want to skip the heavy mayonnaise? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe recreates the beloved Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad, but with a zestier, mayo-free twist that’s perfect for a healthy lunch, a quick dinner, or a vibrant side dish. It’s one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly delicious and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to ditch the mayo and embrace this lighter, brighter take on a classic!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Boil or bake the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let cool completely, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. For a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking; you want them to retain some bite. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain vibrant color. Drain well.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This homemade dressing is the key to a delicious and healthy meal.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad is even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeknights!
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.
- Meal prep friendly: This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This mayo-free broccoli salad offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional recipes. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and guilt-free choice for any meal. Try it today and experience the difference! This easy recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can also be healthy and incredibly flavorful.