Greek Goddess Chicken Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for extra herbal freshness)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cooking the chicken breast if it isn't already cooked. Season it lightly with salt and pepper, and grill or bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it cool slightly before dicing into bite-sized pieces. If time allows, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the chopped dill to infuse the salad with a refreshing herbal note. Toss gently to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. For an added crunch, consider tossing in a handful of toasted pine nuts.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting to ensure the balance of flavors. If desired, add a teaspoon of honey for a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy elements.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. The creamy texture should envelop the salad, providing a luscious mouthfeel with every bite. Ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed for uniform flavor in every forkful.
5. Let It Chill: For the best flavor profile, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and deliciously tangy taste experience. For a more intense flavor, consider letting it sit overnight.
6. Serve: Once chilled, serve the Greek Goddess Chicken Salad in bowls or on a bed of mixed greens for added volume and color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of Energising Pink Salt Lemonade for a refreshing meal. Garnish with extra sprigs of dill or parsley for a beautiful presentation.