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Chickpea and Chicken Salad (No Mayo) Recipe

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4.3 from 58 reviews

This Chickpea and Chicken Salad is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that combines tender shredded chicken with mashed chickpeas, roasted red peppers, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Tossed in a zesty lemon and oregano dressing without mayo, it’s a refreshing and healthy salad perfect for a light lunch, snack, or dinner when served over greens or with pita bread.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For Salad

  • 15.5 ounce canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • ½ cup finely diced jarred roasted red peppers, drained
  • ⅓ cup roughly chopped pitted Greek-style olives
  • ¼ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained (about 2 ounces)

For Dressing

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest and juice of one large lemon (about 2 tablespoons juice)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Mash the chickpeas: Dump the drained and rinsed chickpeas into a large bowl and mash them with a potato masher or fork until most are mashed but not pureed, creating a chunky texture.
  2. Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooked shredded chicken, diced roasted red peppers, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to the bowl with the mashed chickpeas. Stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a large glass measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, dried oregano, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper until well combined.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together to coat thoroughly. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, either scooped with chips, over a bed of fresh arugula or greens, or tucked inside pita bread for a satisfying meal.
  6. Store leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Use Greek-style olives for a briny and savory flavor that complements the salad.
  • Chilling the salad enhances the flavor blending; allow at least 15 minutes in the fridge.
  • This salad is versatile – serve it on greens for a low-carb option or in pita pockets for a hearty meal.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped cucumbers or celery if desired.
  • Ensure sun-dried tomatoes are drained well from oil to avoid excess greasiness.
  • Store leftovers properly to enjoy freshness and to prevent spoilage.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat