Protein-Packed Chickpea Chicken Salad
Looking for a healthy, delicious, and protein-rich salad? This Protein-Packed Chickpea Chicken Salad is the perfect choice! It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making a quick lunch, this salad will keep you full and satisfied.

This salad was inspired by my love for simple, nourishing meals.
One day, I had some leftover grilled chicken and a can of chickpeas sitting in my pantry.
I decided to throw them together with fresh veggies and a light dressing, and the result was an incredibly satisfying salad that quickly became a staple in my kitchen.
It’s now a go-to recipe for busy weekdays and summer picnics!
Why You’ll Love This
- High in Protein – The combination of chicken and chickpeas provides a powerhouse of protein to keep you full and energized.
- Quick & Easy – This salad comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – It stores well, making it great for meal prepping for the week.
- Versatile & Customizable – You can add your favorite veggies, switch up the dressing, or even make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $10-$15
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Dice the cooked chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Everything – In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, chicken, chopped vegetables, feta cheese (if using), and parsley.
- Toss & Serve – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg

Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil make a huge difference in flavor.
- Let It Marinate – Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Make It Creamy – Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a creamier texture.
- Add Extra Crunch – Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Common Questions
1. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra chickpeas or another plant-based protein like tofu.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Give it a good stir before serving.
3. What can I serve this salad with?
It’s great on its own but pairs well with pita bread, quinoa, or over a bed of greens.
4. Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, canned chicken works as a quick alternative. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.
Protein-Packed Chickpea Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- ½ cucumber diced
- ¼ red onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Dice the cooked chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Everything – In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, chicken, chopped vegetables, feta cheese (if using), and parsley.
- Toss & Serve – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil make a huge difference in flavor.
- Let It Marinate – Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Make It Creamy – Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a creamier texture.
- Add Extra Crunch – Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Enjoy your Protein-Packed Chickpea Chicken Salad!
Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish is sure to be a favorite.
Happy cooking!