Oh my gosh, you have to try my Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad! It’s my go-to when I need something quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. I first threw this together one night when I was staring at a fridge full of random ingredients – some leftover rotisserie chicken, a lonely head of broccoli, and half a tub of Greek yogurt. Turns out, that happy accident became my most requested potluck dish! What I love most is how versatile it is – perfect for meal prep, picnics, or when you just want a no-fuss lunch that keeps you full for hours. The creamy dressing with that satisfying crunch from the broccoli and sunflower seeds? Absolute perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

Trust me, this isn’t just another boring salad. Here’s why it’s become my kitchen MVP:

• Crazy quick – From fridge to table in 15 minutes flat (plus chilling time, but who’s counting?)
• Protein powerhouse – With chicken, Greek yogurt, and cheese, it keeps you full for hours
• Perfect for picky eaters – Swap ingredients like you’re playing culinary LEGO (more on that later!)
• No-cook magic – When it’s too hot to turn on the oven, this salad’s got your back
• Meal prep dream – Tastes even better the next day as flavors mingle in the fridge

Seriously, I make this at least twice a week – it’s that good and that easy!

Ingredients for Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

Okay, let’s talk about what makes this salad so darn good. I’m pretty particular about my ingredients – not fussy, just… let’s call it “selectively enthusiastic.” Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Rotisserie chicken is my secret weapon here (no shame!)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped – Cut them small enough to blend in, but big enough to still have that satisfying crunch
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The sharpest you can find – it makes all the difference
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced – Soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you want to tame the bite
• 1/4 cup bacon bits – Because everything’s better with bacon, right?
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds – My favorite “hidden” crunch factor

For the dressing that makes everyone ask for the recipe:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt – The tangy backbone of our creamy dressing
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise – Just enough to smooth things out
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Fresh squeezed if you’re feeling fancy
• 1 tsp garlic powder – My little flavor booster
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skip taste-testing before serving!

See? Nothing too crazy, but every ingredient pulls its weight in this salad symphony.

How to Make Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

Alright, let’s get mixing! This salad comes together faster than you can say “seconds please,” but there’s a method to my madness. Follow these steps and you’ll have the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and downright delicious.

Step 1: Combine the Salad Base

Grab your biggest bowl – trust me, you’ll need the space! Toss in that gorgeous shredded chicken (I like to use my hands to break up any clumps), then add your chopped broccoli florets. The broccoli pieces should be bite-sized – think “pop-in-your-mouth” not “choke hazard.” Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese, those pretty pink flecks of red onion, the irresistible bacon bits, and sunflower seeds for that nutty crunch. Give it all a gentle toss with your hands or a big spoon – just enough to start the party, but don’t go wild yet!

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Now for the magic potion! In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise until they’re best friends. Squeeze in that fresh lemon juice (watch for seeds!) and sprinkle the garlic powder like you’re seasoning royalty. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste! This is your moment to adjust – more lemon for brightness? More garlic for oomph? Make it yours.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

Here’s where the transformation happens! Pour that creamy dressing over your waiting salad ingredients. Now roll up your sleeves and toss everything together like you mean it – you want every nook and cranny coated in that delicious dressing. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (I know, the wait is torture!) while the flavors get to know each other. This chilling time is non-negotiable – it turns good into “can I have the recipe?” amazing.

Tips for the Best Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

After making this salad more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “lick-the-bowl-clean” amazing:

• Rotisserie chicken is your BFF – The pre-seasoned flavor saves time and adds depth
• Chop broccoli small but mighty – Tiny florets mean every bite gets that perfect crunch
• Let the dressing sit – Mix it first and let it rest 5 minutes before tossing – the flavors bloom!
• Taste before serving – Sometimes it needs an extra pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon
• Add-ins galore – Toss in avocado, cherry tomatoes, or dried cranberries for fun twists

Oh, and always make extra – this salad disappears faster than you’d think!

Variations for Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

One of my favorite things about this salad? It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book! Here are some delicious ways to mix it up:

• Dressing switcheroo – Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or even ranch dressing if you’re feeling indulgent
• Protein play – Turkey bacon works great, or try leftover grilled chicken for extra smokiness
• Veggie boost – Toss in diced avocado (add right before serving) or halved cherry tomatoes
• Crunch factor – Almonds or pecans instead of sunflower seeds add a different kind of bite
• Cheese please – Pepper jack gives it a kick, while feta adds Mediterranean vibes

Honestly, I’ve never made it the same way twice – and neither should you!

Serving Suggestions for Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad

Oh, the possibilities! This salad shines no matter how you serve it. My absolute favorite? Scooped onto whole-grain crackers for the perfect little bites – great for parties! For lunch, I’ll often stuff it into a whole wheat wrap with some extra greens. But honestly? A big ol’ bowlful with a fork is perfection too. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but plays well with others if you’re feeling fancy. Last summer I served it in halved avocados at a picnic – total showstopper!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, here’s the scoop on keeping your Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad tasting fresh! This salad is happiest in an airtight container in the fridge – it’ll stay delicious for about 3 days (if it lasts that long!). The dressing actually gets better as it sits, soaking into all those goodies. One big no-no? Freezing it. The dairy in the dressing gets weirdly grainy when thawed. Pro tip: If you’re meal prepping, keep any extra dressing separate and toss it in just before eating!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers – but don’t worry, these are the good kind! One generous serving of this Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad packs about 320 calories with a whopping 28g of protein to keep you full. You’re looking at 18g of fat (the good kind from all those tasty ingredients) and 12g of carbs with 3g of fiber to keep things moving smoothly.

Now, here’s my little disclaimer – these numbers can dance around depending on your ingredient choices. Use turkey bacon? Fewer calories. Add extra cheese? Well… you do the math! But no matter how you tweak it, this salad stays a nutritional powerhouse that tastes anything but “diet food.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Oh honey, I’ve been there! While fresh broccoli gives that perfect crunch, frozen works in a pinch. Just thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels – otherwise you’ll end up with a watery salad. The texture changes a bit, but it’s still delicious!

Q2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
In my house? Maybe 12 hours if I hide it well! But seriously, it keeps beautifully for 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually get better as they mingle. Just give it a quick stir before serving leftovers.

Q3. Can I make this salad ahead for a party?
Absolutely! This is my go-to potluck dish. Mix everything except the dressing the night before, then toss with the dressing about an hour before serving. The broccoli stays crisp, and nobody will guess you didn’t slave away all day!

Q4. What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?
My lazy-girl secret? Two forks and some elbow grease! Just pull apart cooled rotisserie chicken or poached breasts. Want it extra fine? Pop slightly warm chicken in your stand mixer with the paddle attachment – sounds crazy, but it works like magic!

I’d love to hear how your Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad turns out! Tag me in your creations or leave a comment – nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen adventures. Happy cooking! You can also find more inspiration on my Pinterest page.

Irresistible Loaded Chicken & Broccoli Salad in 15 Minutes

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A hearty and nutritious salad packed with chicken, broccoli, and flavorful toppings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup bacon bits
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cheese, red onion, bacon bits, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
• Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if preferred.
• Add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or avocado.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken salad, broccoli salad, healthy lunch, high-protein salad