High Protein Pepperoncini Chicken Salad (Printable View)

Zesty, high-protein chicken with pepperoncini and crisp veggies in a tangy yogurt-Dijon dressing, ready in 35 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup celery, diced
03 - 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 cup pepperoncini, sliced and drained

→ Dressing

06 - 1/2 cup plain nonfat or 2% Greek yogurt
07 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
08 - 2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine (juice from the jar)
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
13 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Add-Ins & Garnishes

14 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
15 - Mixed greens or whole grain wraps for serving (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and sliced pepperoncini.
02 - In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), pepperoncini brine, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
03 - Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
04 - Fold in chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
05 - Serve chilled over mixed greens, inside a whole grain wrap, or as a sandwich filling as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The tangy pepperoncini brine brings a little zing that most salads only dream of — it’s my secret flavor weapon.
  • The combination of high protein and fresh crunch makes it equally satisfying and energizing, especially when days get busy.
02 -
  • If you skip the pepperoncini brine in the dressing, the salad is just never quite as bright – trust me, I tried.
  • Mix in the parsley last; it stays vibrant and doesn’t turn limp that way.
03 -
  • If your chicken seems dry, add an extra drizzle of brine or olive oil to restore juiciness.
  • Mix the dressing separately before adding it in—this makes everything taste more cohesive and creamy.