Layered Chicken Salad

Ingredients

To prepare a delicious Layered Chicken Salad, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (grilled or rotisserie)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or spinach)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Note: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat mayonnaise or swapping out the mayo entirely for additional Greek yogurt. If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein and use a dairy-free yogurt for the dressing. Check out our related guide for more tips

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred your chicken. Grilling it will add a lovely smoky flavor, but rotisserie chicken is a convenient option as well.
2. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
3. Layer the Salad: Start with a large glass bowl or a trifle dish for an impressive presentation. Begin with the shredded chicken at the bottom.
4. Add Vegetables: Layer the cherry tomatoes over the chicken, followed by the diced cucumber, bell peppers, corn, and red onion. Each layer should be evenly distributed for the best flavor in every bite.
5. Add Greens: Top off the layered vegetables with the shredded lettuce. This creates a beautiful green layer that contrasts with the colorful veggies below.
6. Finish with Avocado: Finally, sprinkle the diced avocado on top. This not only adds a creamy texture but also enhances the healthy fat content of the salad.
7. Drizzle the Dressing: Use a spoon to drizzle the creamy dressing over the top layer of avocado and lettuce. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
8. Chill and Serve: For best results, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.