When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing crunch of a salad, and my green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe hits all the right notes! This vibrant dish is not only packed with nutrients but also bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or a quick lunch on a busy day. With tender chicken, crisp cucumber, and a luscious green goddess dressing, each bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients. Trust me, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again as it’s both satisfying and oh-so-easy to whip up!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup green goddess dressing (see instructions below)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (a mix of parsley, chives, and basil works beautifully)
- 4 large lettuce leaves (I love using romaine or butter lettuce for their flexibility)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure your chicken is cooked and cooled before dicing—it’s a great time to use leftover rotisserie chicken if you have it on hand! The cucumber should be sliced thinly for that satisfying crunch, and don’t forget to wash your herbs thoroughly to bring out their vibrant flavors. Fresh, crisp ingredients are key to making this salad shine!
How to Prepare the Green Goddess Cucumber Chicken Wrap Salad Recipe
Now that you’ve gathered all your fresh ingredients, it’s time to bring this green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe to life! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Trust me, this process is as enjoyable as eating the salad itself!
Preparing the Green Goddess Dressing
First, let’s whip up that creamy green goddess dressing that’ll elevate your salad to the next level. In a blender, combine 1/4 cup of fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, and basil), 1 ripe avocado, the juice of half a lemon, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend on high until everything is smooth and velvety. You want a nice, pourable consistency, so if it’s too thick, just add a splash of water or more olive oil until it reaches your desired texture. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this dressing should be bursting with fresh flavor!
Assembling the Salad
Now, let’s put it all together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, thinly sliced cucumber, and mixed greens. Drizzle about half of your green goddess dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure every bite is flavorful. Once you’re happy with the mix, take a large lettuce leaf, and spoon a generous portion of the salad mixture onto the center. Top it off with a few slices of avocado and sprinkle some extra fresh herbs for that pop of color. Now, wrap the lettuce around the filling like a burrito—don’t worry if it’s a bit messy; that just means it’s going to be delicious!
Serving Suggestions
For an eye-catching presentation, arrange your wraps on a plate with the open side facing up. You can garnish with a sprinkle of chopped herbs or a drizzle of the remaining dressing for that extra flair. If you want to serve this as a picnic-style lunch, consider pairing it with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a light fruit salad. And don’t forget to keep some extra dressing on the side for dipping—trust me, it’s irresistible!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe, you can feel good knowing it’s not just tasty but also nutritious! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 wrap):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind, these values may vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, especially if you’re adding different proteins or dressing variations. But overall, this salad is a fantastic low-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction!
Tips for Success
To make sure your green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips to share! Let’s dive into the details that will elevate your salad game.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference! When it comes to herbs, opt for organic if you can. They’ll give your dressing a vibrant flavor that really stands out.
- Prep Ahead: This salad is a fantastic meal prep option. You can cook and dice your chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain that crunchy texture!
- Experiment with Greens: Feel free to mix and match your greens! Spinach, arugula, or even kale can add different flavors and textures. Just remember to wash and dry them thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Don’t limit yourself to just parsley, chives, and basil. Try adding dill, cilantro, or mint for a unique twist. Each herb brings its own character to the dressing and can transform the entire dish!
- Perfect Your Wrapping Technique: When wrapping the lettuce around the filling, don’t be afraid to be generous with the ingredients. A well-packed wrap is not only more satisfying but also more visually appealing. Just be careful not to overfill, or it might burst open!
- Common Pitfalls: One common mistake is over-salting the dressing. Always start with a little and taste as you go; you can always add more, but it’s tough to fix a salty dressing! Also, try to avoid letting the salad sit too long before serving, as the dressing can make the greens wilt.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to mastering this delightful salad. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to have fun with it!
Variations on the Recipe
One of the best things about my green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe is its versatility! You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:
- Protein Options: While I love using chicken, feel free to swap it out for other proteins! Grilled shrimp, diced turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist work wonderfully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try smoked salmon for a luxurious touch!
- Herb Variations: The fresh herbs in the dressing can be tailored to your liking. Experiment with dill for a refreshing flavor, or add cilantro and lime for a zesty Mexican-inspired twist. Don’t hesitate to mix different herbs together for a unique blend!
- Veggie Additions: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Add colorful bell peppers, shredded carrots, or radishes for a crunchy texture. You can even throw in some sliced cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Grain Boost: For a heartier salad, consider adding cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice. These grains will not only give you added nutrients but also create a satisfying base that makes the salad even more filling.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also use a spicy mustard instead of regular mustard in the dressing for an extra zing.
- Wrap Alternatives: Instead of using lettuce, why not try whole wheat tortillas, collard greens, or even rice paper wraps? Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these variations to create your perfect salad masterpiece. The essence of this dish lies in its freshness and balance, so don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild!
FAQ Section
Can I use store-bought green goddess dressing?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought green goddess dressing can work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain that fresh crunch!
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the green goddess dressing ahead of time! It keeps well in the fridge for about a week. Just give it a good stir or shake before using, as it may separate a bit.
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken, grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, try marinated tofu or tempeh for added protein!
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! The green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the labels on any pre-made ingredients, like dressing, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients that are full of nutrients.
- Versatile for meal prep—great for lunches or snacks throughout the week.
- Low-calorie and high-protein, perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
- Customizable with various proteins, herbs, and vegetables to suit your taste.
- Refreshing and satisfying, making it a great choice for warmer weather.
- Easy to serve and transport for picnics or gatherings.
- Your family and friends will love the fresh flavors—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
For more information on the health benefits of cucumbers, check out this Healthline article. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of chicken, you can visit the National Institutes of Health for detailed insights.
Print
Green Goddess Cucumber Chicken Wrap Salad Recipe in 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and healthy green goddess cucumber chicken wrap salad recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup green goddess dressing
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, chives, and basil)
- 4 large lettuce leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the green goddess dressing by blending herbs, avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine diced chicken, cucumber slices, and mixed greens.
- Drizzle with green goddess dressing and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place a portion of the salad mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
- Top with avocado slices and additional herbs if desired.
- Wrap the lettuce around the filling and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
- For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños.
- Serve with a side of extra dressing for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Wrapping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: green goddess, cucumber, chicken, wrap, salad, recipe
