High Protein Creamy Pesto Chicken Salad
3 People
278 Cals
High Protein Creamy Pesto Chicken Salad
3 People
278 Cals
About the recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, high-protein meal that feels light yet completely satisfying… this is the one you’ll make on repeat.This creamy pesto chicken salad is everything I love about simple, nourishing food. Tender chicken is tossed with crisp cucumber, celery and spring onion, then coated in a silky lemon basil pesto with a touch of yoghurt for that soft, creamy finish.It’s vibrant, herby and full of flavour—while still being incredibly balanced for your body.Packed with lean protein to support muscle health and energy, healthy fats from olive oil and nuts for satiety, and fresh greens for digestion and hydration… this is the kind of meal that leaves you feeling good after you eat it.Serve it your way—spooned into baby gem lettuce for a light low-carb option, layered onto toasted sourdough with avocado, or enjoyed as a simple protein-rich salad bowl.Light. Fresh. Purely nourishing.
Nutrition Per Serving
278
Calories
12g
Fat
3g
Saturates
1g
Sugars
138mg
Salt
35g
Protein
3g
Carbs
2g
Fibre
Ingredients
PESTO DRESSING
- 30 g fresh basil leaves
- 1 –2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 1 –2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch sea salt
- 2 –3 tablespoons natural Greek yoghurt
CHICKEN SALAD
- 300 g cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
- 1 celery stalk finely diced
- 1 small cucumber finely chopped
- 2 spring onions thinly sliced
TO SERVE
- 2 baby gem lettuce washed and leaves separated
Method
Make the pesto base
- Combine the basil, pine nuts, parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil and sea salt into a small food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and vibrant.
- Spoon the pesto into a bowl and gently stir through the Greek yoghurt until silky and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken, celery, cucumber and spring onion to the bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy pesto dressing.
- Taste and adjust with a little extra lemon juice, salt or freshly cracked pepper if needed.
- Arrange the baby gem lettuce leaves on a platter and spoon the chicken salad over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes + Inspiration
Protein boost: This is naturally high in lean protein—perfect for supporting muscle, energy and satiety throughout the day. You can also add a tin of drained cannellini beans for added protein and fibre.
Change it up: Spoon onto fresh sourdough or wrap in a tortilla for something more substantial.
Delicious variation: Swap lettuce for lightly blanched broccoli florets and fold through for a warm, nourishing twist. You can even swap the lettuce for chopped cabbage - this will keep for 3 - 4 days in the fridge.
Extra greens: Add baby spinach or rocket leaves.
Meal prep friendly: Keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for easy lunches.
