Chicken Salad with Cranberries Recipe | Sweet, Crunchy, and Healthy

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt has become a favorite for health-conscious food lovers and anyone who enjoys fresh, flavorful meals without heavy calories.

Combining tender chicken with creamy Greek yogurt instead of traditional mayonnaise transforms this classic dish into a lighter, protein-packed option that works perfectly for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping for the week. The tanginess of Greek yogurt adds a subtle zest that pairs beautifully with herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a touch of fruit if desired. Its versatility allows it to adapt to a variety of flavor profiles, whether you enjoy a classic herb-based taste or a more adventurous twist with spices and nuts. Many people find that switching to Greek yogurt not only reduces fat and calories but also boosts protein and gut-friendly probiotics.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a simple table listing the essential ingredients for chicken salad with Greek yogurt along with their approximate calorie count. This ensures you know the nutritional impact of each component while planning your meal.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Cooked chicken breast	2 cups, shredded	330
Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat)	1 cup	100
Celery	1 cup, chopped	16
Red onion	1/4 cup, finely chopped	12
Dijon mustard	1 teaspoon	5
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	4
Fresh dill	1 tablespoon, chopped	1
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon	0
Grapes or apples (optional)	1/2 cup, sliced	50
Almonds or walnuts (optional)	1/4 cup, chopped	100

These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores, and the optional additions like fruit or nuts add extra flavor, texture, and nutrients. Greek yogurt creates a creamy base without the heavy calories and fat content typically found in mayonnaise.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken
   Cook the chicken breast using your preferred method. Poaching, baking, or grilling works well. Once fully cooked, let the chicken cool, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Chop the vegetables
   Dice celery and finely chop red onion. If using herbs like dill or parsley, chop them finely as well. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of the salad and bring a natural brightness to each bite.
3. Mix the dressing
   In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed. The dressing should have a creamy yet light texture that will coat all the ingredients.
4. Combine ingredientsYou’ll also want to try Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt for another tasty option.
   Add the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and optional fruits or nuts to the bowl. Gently fold everything together to ensure the dressing covers all ingredients without crushing the vegetables or fruits.
5. Adjust seasoning
   Taste the salad and add additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Some people enjoy a little extra tang from lemon juice or a touch of sweetness from honey.
6. Chill before serving
   For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more harmonious taste.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Customizing chicken salad with Greek yogurt allows you to make it fit your flavor preferences or dietary needs. Adding a variety of fresh herbs like parsley, tarragon, or basil can create a more complex flavor profile. For a sweeter touch, diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries work well. For a crunchier texture, try adding roasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

Spices can also make a difference. A pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or cumin adds warmth, while a small amount of cayenne can bring subtle heat. Some people like incorporating avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fat, or adding chopped cucumber for extra hydration and crunch. For those who prefer a tangier flavor, Greek yogurt can be combined with a small amount of vinegar or lemon zest. Meal prepping the salad in individual containers makes it a convenient grab-and-go option, especially for busy weekdays.

Nutritional Information

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt is naturally rich in protein, low in fat, and provides essential vitamins and minerals. The chicken supplies high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and repair, while Greek yogurt adds additional protein along with probiotics that support gut health. Vegetables like celery and onions offer fiber and antioxidants, promoting overall wellness. Optional fruits contribute vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness, and nuts add healthy fats and minerals such as magnesium and potassium.

A typical serving of chicken salad with Greek yogurt contains around 250-300 calories without optional add-ins. It is a perfect meal choice for anyone aiming to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying flavor and satisfaction. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats helps keep you full longer, making it a practical option for lunches or light dinners.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt is extremely versatile in how it can be served. Spread on whole-grain bread or a wrap for a nutritious sandwich, or serve on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad. It pairs well with crackers, pita bread, or as a filling for stuffed tomatoes or bell peppers. For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps or cucumber boats make a delicious alternative. Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika on top can elevate the presentation and make it look as appealing as it tastes.

This salad also works well as a side dish for dinner parties, picnics, or potlucks. Its creamy texture and bright flavor appeal to a wide range of palates, and it can easily be prepared in advance. Keeping it chilled ensures that it stays fresh and flavorful throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. It stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, improving the taste.

Is Greek yogurt interchangeable with other types of yogurt?
Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness and higher protein content, but plain regular yogurt can be used. Strain it slightly to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and additional flavor without compromising the texture of the salad.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Portioning into individual containers ensures a ready-to-go meal for lunch or snacks throughout the week.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, using plant-based yogurt such as almond or coconut yogurt works well, but the protein content may be lower than traditional Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt provides a delicious, lighter alternative to traditional chicken salad. Its creamy texture, bright flavors, and high protein content make it both satisfying and nutritious. Customizing the recipe with herbs, fruits, nuts, or spices allows you to create a unique dish every time. It is easy to prepare, stores well, and can fit into a variety of meals and dietary plans. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a sandwich, or over a fresh salad, this dish proves that healthy eating can be flavorful and enjoyable.