This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Ranch Summer Salad is fresh, hearty, and packed with creamy ranch flavor while staying low in sugar. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and red onion are tossed together in a rich homemade roasted garlic ranch sauce that makes every bite satisfying and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low sugar and protein-packed
- Creamy homemade roasted garlic ranch sauce
- Fresh crunchy broccoli texture
- Perfect healthy summer lunch or dinner
- Great for meal prep and cookouts
- Filling, creamy, and refreshing
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 5 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Special Low Sugar Roasted Garlic Ranch Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 roasted garlic clove, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into small bite-sized florets and place them into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Mix-Ins
Add the diced cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, red onion, sunflower seeds, and parsley to the bowl.
Step 3: Make the Special Ranch Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, roasted garlic, lemon juice, chives, dried dill, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour the creamy ranch sauce over the salad ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes for the best flavor and texture.
Step 6: Serve
Serve chilled as a complete meal or alongside grilled meats, wraps, or summer cookout dishes.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Chicken Salad
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use grilled chicken for extra smoky flavor.
Dry the broccoli thoroughly before mixing with dressing.
Add cucumber or avocado for extra freshness.
Chill before serving for deeper flavor.