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Spinach Artichoke Low Carb Chicken Salad - Creamy, Savory, and Satisfying

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach, finely chopped (or 1/2 cup thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 small celery stalk, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken. Use shredded rotisserie chicken or poach/bake chicken breasts and chop them. Aim for bite-size pieces so the dressing coats evenly.
  2. Prepare the spinach. If using fresh, finely chop it. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out all the liquid with a clean towel to avoid a watery salad.
  3. Make the creamy base. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. If the cream cheese is stiff, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to soften.
  4. Add mix-ins. Stir in artichokes, spinach, celery, red onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon.
  5. Fold in the chicken. Gently stir until everything is well coated. If you like a looser texture, add a tablespoon of yogurt or a splash of olive oil.
  6. Chill for flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
  7. Serve. Top with extra Parmesan and parsley. Spoon into lettuce cups, serve with sliced cucumbers, or enjoy as a hearty bowl with avocado.