Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs
Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes
Enjoy these delightful Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs that are perfect for a light lunch or a snack. Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, they are both nutritious and delicious.
These Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs are a fantastic way to enjoy a protein-rich meal without the guilt. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a light dressing, they make a perfect addition to any meal or a fantastic party appetizer.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing with a burst of flavor
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- A healthier alternative to traditional snacks
Nutritional Benefits
These Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of shredded chicken and Greek yogurt provides a hearty dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. With just a half-cup of Greek yogurt, you can get about 10 grams of protein, making these puffs a great choice for a post-workout snack or a light meal.
Incorporating celery and red grapes into the salad adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of sweetness. Celery is low in calories and high in fiber, which helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Meanwhile, grapes are rich in antioxidants, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation in the body.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best features of these Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs is their suitability for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This means you can whip up a quick lunch or snack anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Additionally, you can freeze the filled puff pastries before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy weekdays.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Salad Puffs are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or vegetable sticks. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the puffs perfectly, adding an extra layer of freshness.
For a fun twist, consider serving them with a dipping sauce. A light ranch or honey mustard dip can enhance the flavor profile and make for a more interactive meal. Whether for a casual get-together or a family dinner, these puffs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package puff pastry sheets
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs:
Prepare the Chicken Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, celery, grapes, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares.
Fill and Bake
Place a spoonful of the chicken salad mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the corners over to create a pocket. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Storage Tips
To maintain the taste and texture of your Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs, it is crucial to store them properly. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days, but for the best flavor and quality, enjoy them as soon as possible.
If you decide to freeze the unbaked puffs, they should be consumed within a month for optimal freshness. When ready to cook, remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as frozen puffs may take a few extra minutes to become golden brown.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the chicken for cooked turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Experimenting with different vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or shredded carrots, can add additional flavors and textures to the salad.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken salad mixture. This will give your puffs a delightful kick that can elevate your snacking experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works great.
→ How can I make these puffs gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free puff pastry available at most grocery stores.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad ahead of time and fill the puff pastry just before baking.
→ What can I serve with these puffs?
These puffs pair well with a side salad or vegetable sticks for a complete meal.
Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs
Enjoy these delightful Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs that are perfect for a light lunch or a snack. Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, they are both nutritious and delicious.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Light & Fresh Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package puff pastry sheets
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, celery, grapes, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares.
Place a spoonful of the chicken salad mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the corners over to create a pocket. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 16g