Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a good chicken salad. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even on its own. But traditional chicken salad can be heavy, loaded with mayonnaise and unnecessary fats.

That’s where this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad comes in. It’s a lighter, protein-packed version of the classic, made with tangy Greek yogurt instead of mayo. The result? A fresh, creamy, and delicious dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a protein boost after a workout, this recipe has you covered. And the best part? It takes just a few simple ingredients to create something truly delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

Chicken salad is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and works for any meal of the day. But the problem with the traditional version is the mayonnaise—while it adds richness, it also packs in extra calories and fats.

This Greek yogurt version keeps all the creaminess but ditches the unhealthy fats, making it a nutritious and guilt-free alternative. Greek yogurt not only adds a tangy depth of flavor but also provides protein, probiotics, and calcium—all great for gut health and muscle recovery.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s endlessly customizable. You can add crunch with celery and nuts, sweetness with grapes or apples, or even a little heat with some spicy mustard or hot sauce.

And let’s not forget the convenience factor. You can make this ahead of time, and it tastes even better as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep, work lunches, or a quick dinner when you don’t feel like cooking.

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

The best thing about this recipe is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Salad:

• Cooked chicken breast – Shredded or diced, from poached, baked, or rotisserie chicken.
• Plain Greek yogurt – Full-fat, low-fat, or non-fat, depending on your preference.
• Dijon mustard – Adds a little tang and depth of flavor.
• Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for a bright, fresh taste.
• Honey – Just a touch to balance the tanginess.
• Celery – For that essential crunch.
• Red onion – Adds a slight sharpness and color.
• Grapes or apples – A pop of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory ingredients.
• Almonds or walnuts – For added crunch and texture.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives) – Adds freshness and extra flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – To taste.

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare. If your chicken is already cooked, you can have it ready in just 10 minutes.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time (if cooking chicken): 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken), 30 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)

How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• If using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, simply shred or dice it into small pieces.
• If cooking fresh chicken, poach or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts, then let them cool before shredding.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Chop and Add the Mix-ins

• Dice celery and red onion into small pieces.
• Halve the grapes (or dice apples) and chop the nuts if using.
• Finely chop fresh herbs.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Add the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, grapes/apples, and nuts into the bowl with the dressing.
• Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

• Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed.
• If possible, let it chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
• Serve on its own, over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.

Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some easy swaps:

• No Greek yogurt? Use a mix of cottage cheese and a splash of milk for a similar creamy texture.
• No chicken? Try canned tuna or shredded rotisserie turkey.
• Dairy-free? Use mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Nut allergy? Skip the nuts or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• No grapes or apples? Dried cranberries or chopped dates work well too.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Pair this light and refreshing chicken salad with these sides for a complete meal:

1. Whole Wheat Crackers or Pita Chips – A crunchy pairing that makes for a satisfying meal.
2. Simple Green Salad – A fresh side with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the chicken salad.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Adds a delicious contrast with natural sweetness and a crispy texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take a simple dish like Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad from ordinary to gourmet. Here’s how to serve it beautifully:

• In a Lettuce Wrap: Spoon the chicken salad into crisp butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a light and fresh way to enjoy it.
• On a Croissant or Whole-Grain Bread: For a more filling meal, serve it as a sandwich on a flaky croissant or hearty multigrain bread.
• Stuffed in an Avocado or Tomato: Hollow out an avocado or a large tomato and fill it with chicken salad for an elegant, low-carb presentation.
• Over a Bed of Greens: Serve it over mixed greens with extra nuts and fruit for a restaurant-worthy salad.
• Garnish with Herbs and Nuts: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or extra almonds makes it look polished and professional.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Want to take your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to the next level? Here are a few pro tips:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: It saves time and adds extra flavor compared to plain poached chicken.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Chilling the salad for at least 20-30 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the salad is too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk, lemon juice, or olive oil.
• Add a Touch of Heat: A dash of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce can give it a mild kick.
• Mix Up the Crunch: Try pecans, sunflower seeds, or even crispy chickpeas for a unique texture.
• Experiment with Spices: A little curry powder or smoked paprika can completely change the flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad turns out perfect every time:

• Using Plain, Unseasoned Chicken: If your chicken lacks flavor, the whole salad will be bland. Use seasoned or rotisserie chicken for the best results.
• Adding Too Much Greek Yogurt: Start with less and add more as needed to avoid making it too wet.
• Skipping the Sweet Component: The honey, grapes, or apples balance the tangy yogurt—don’t leave them out!
• Not Chilling Before Serving: This salad tastes best after the flavors have had time to meld.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Stir gently to keep the chicken pieces intact and prevent mushiness.

How to Store It

This salad is great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the yogurt and fresh ingredients can become watery when thawed.
• Make-Ahead Tip: If prepping in advance, store the dressing separately and mix everything just before serving for the freshest taste.

FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or mashed avocado.

2. What’s the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?

Poaching, baking, or using rotisserie chicken all work well. Just make sure it’s seasoned for the best flavor.

3. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will have a better texture and taste. If using canned, drain it well.

4. How do I make it keto-friendly?

Skip the honey and fruit, and serve the salad in lettuce wraps or avocado halves instead of bread.

5. What can I do if my chicken salad is too dry?

Add an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to loosen it up.

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