Chicken chickpea salad is one of those easy, protein-packed meals you’ll want on repeat. It’s fresh, filling, and comes together fast—great for busy lunches or a light dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with whatever veggies you’ve got on hand.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small cucumber, diced
– 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by shredding or dicing the cooked chicken. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Toss them gently to mix well.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add avocado slices for creaminess and extra healthy fats.
2. Include roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
3. Mix in some toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch.
4. Use a mix of fresh herbs like mint or dill for extra freshness.
5. Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Side Dishes to Serve With
This Chicken Chickpea Salad pairs well with warm pita bread or flatbread on the side. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of soup like gazpacho for a refreshing summer meal. A light couscous or quinoa pilaf would complement this salad nicely as well.
Substitutions
1. Replace chicken with turkey or grilled shrimp for a different protein.
2. Use canned white beans instead of chickpeas if preferred.
3. Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a change in flavor.
4. Swap olive oil with avocado oil for a different nutritional profile.
Recipe Variations
1. Mediterranean Style: Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
2. Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
3. Crunchy Texture: Toss in some sliced radishes or bell peppers for added crunch.
4. Herb Infusion: Use cilantro instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
5. Vegan Version: Omit chicken and cheese; add grilled tofu or tempeh as plant-based protein options.
