If you’re on the hunt for a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic, look no further than this vibrant Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, bringing together wholesome ingredients that feel both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re packing lunch, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving something light yet satisfying, this salad delivers a protein-packed punch while keeping things bright and refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays a starring role in making this chicken salad pop with flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy tang of Greek yogurt to the sweetness of fresh grapes or crunchy apples, every bite is a perfect harmony.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): The hearty protein base that makes this salad filling and satisfying.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it’s a healthier alternative to mayonnaise and keeps the salad light.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional): Adds extra creaminess if you prefer a richer texture, but feel free to leave it out for a lighter dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle zing that brightens up the overall flavor.
- 1 celery stalk (diced): Provides delightful crunch and a fresh herbal note.
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped): Adds a gentle sharpness and depth.
- 1/4 cup red grapes or apple (chopped): Sweetness that balances the tang and savory notes beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: A splash of citrus to elevate the brightness and keep the salad refreshing.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers subtle warmth and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to tie all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional): Adds a burst of herbal freshness for that extra wow factor.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by combining the Greek yogurt, optional mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. This dressing is the heart of the salad, bringing together all the flavors harmoniously.
Step 2: Mix in the Chicken and Crunchy Ingredients
Add the shredded or chopped chicken, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and your choice of red grapes or apple to the bowl. Toss everything gently so that each ingredient is evenly coated in the luscious yogurt dressing. The combination of textures here is what makes this salad truly delightful to eat.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs and Chill
Sprinkle in fresh parsley or dill if you’re using it. Give the salad one last gentle stir, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making every bite even more delicious.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a bit more fresh chopped parsley or dill on top just before serving for a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor. A few extra grapes or apple chunks on the side can add visual interest and a sweet surprise.
Side Dishes
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, crusty whole-grain bread, or simple veggie sticks like cucumber and carrot. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a quinoa pilaf.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping the salad into hollowed-out avocado halves or stuffing it inside sturdy lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap. It’s also fantastic layered between slices of your favorite bread or piled high on a bed of mixed greens for a beautiful, colorful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks during the week.
Freezing
Because of the Greek yogurt base, freezing this chicken salad is not recommended as the texture of the yogurt can separate and become watery upon thawing. For best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh or chilled from the fridge.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warmer option, try warming the chicken separately and mixing it with freshly made dressing just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which helps give this salad its rich texture. If you use regular yogurt, the salad might be a bit runnier, so draining off some whey or using a thicker variety works best.
Is it okay to skip the mayonnaise?
Absolutely! The mayonnaise is optional and the salad will still be creamy and flavorful thanks to the Greek yogurt. Skipping it also makes the salad lighter and healthier.
What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe because it’s already cooked and juicy. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or poached chicken breasts – just shred or chop as you prefer.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
The Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe relies on Greek yogurt for its creamy base, which is dairy. For a dairy-free option, you might experiment with dairy-free yogurt alternatives, but the flavor and texture will differ.
How can I add extra crunch to the salad?
Adding chopped walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can bring a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor. They also add healthy fats and nutrients.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels both wholesome and indulgent at the same time. It’s versatile, easy to make, and packed with fresh flavors that will surely brighten up your meal rotation. Once you taste that creamy, tangy goodness combined with crisp veggies and sweet fruit, it’s hard not to make it a favorite!
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Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a healthy and protein-packed twist on traditional chicken salad. Made with tender cooked chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, crisp celery, sweet grapes or apples, and a hint of fresh herbs, it’s a refreshing and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The recipe is quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and can be served in multiple ways such as in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or over salad greens.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad Mix
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup red grapes or apple (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth to form a creamy dressing base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, chopped grapes or apple, and fresh herbs to the dressing. Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the yogurt mixture.
- Chill and Meld Flavors: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together effectively.
- Serve: Serve the chilled chicken salad on toast, in lettuce wraps, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of mixed greens for a versatile and delicious meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Omit the mayonnaise to make a lighter, lower-fat version.
- Add chopped walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and nutty taste.
