Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt: Healthy, Creamy, and Easy Recipe

Chicken salad is a classic favorite that has been reinvented in countless ways over the years. Traditional versions often rely heavily on mayonnaise, making them creamy but also calorie-

dense and heavy. Swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt transforms this beloved dish into a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Greek yogurt adds a rich, tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken and crisp vegetables.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients for chicken salad with Greek yogurt are simple, wholesome, and easy to source. Each component contributes to the overall taste and texture while keeping the salad healthy and flavorful.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories per Serving
Cooked chicken breast	2 cups, chopped	330
Greek yogurt	1 cup	100
Celery	1 cup, chopped	16
Red onion	1/4 cup, finely diced	15
Dijon mustard	1 tablespoon	15
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons	8
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon	3
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon	1
Fresh parsley	2 tablespoons, chopped	2
Optional: grapes	1/2 cup, halved	50
Optional: walnuts	1/4 cup, chopped	200

Using these ingredients ensures that the chicken salad is high in protein, packed with flavor, and suitable for various dietary preferences. Greek yogurt provides a creamy base, while the vegetables add crunch and freshness, and optional ingredients like grapes or walnuts introduce a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken
   Start by cooking the chicken breast if it is not pre-cooked. You can bake, poach, or grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow it to cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Properly cooked chicken ensures a juicy, flavorful salad.
2. Mix the yogurt dressing
   In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The lemon juice adds brightness, while Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tang. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Combine ingredients
   Add the chopped chicken, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the yogurt mixture. Make sure not to overmix to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
4. Incorporate optional ingredients
   If using grapes or walnuts, fold them into the salad at this stage. Grapes add natural sweetness, while walnuts contribute a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Fresh parsley can also be added for a hint of herbal freshness.
5. Chill the salad
   Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste. The salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Customizing chicken salad with Greek yogurt is easy and allows the dish to suit personal tastes. Adding dried cranberries or chopped apples can introduce sweetness and additional texture. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be mixed into the dressing.

Herbs such as dill, cilantro, or chives provide an aromatic boost, enhancing the freshness of the salad. Using low-fat or full-fat Greek yogurt can adjust creaminess and calorie content according to preference. Substituting cooked turkey for chicken or adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can transform the salad into a hearty variation.

Texture can be further enhanced with toasted nuts or seeds. Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds add crunch and extra nutrients. For a Mediterranean twist, including olives, cucumber, and feta cheese brings bold flavors and additional depth to the salad.

Experimenting with different types of mustard or adding a small drizzle of honey creates a subtle balance of sweet and tangy. For a complete meal, pairing the salad with whole grain bread, crackers, or serving it in lettuce cups offers versatility and variety in presentation.

Nutritional Information

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt is packed with protein and offers a healthier alternative to traditional chicken salads. Each serving provides essential nutrients that support overall wellness and energy.

A standard serving of this salad contains approximately 250 calories, depending on optional additions. Protein content is high due to chicken and Greek yogurt, averaging 28 grams per serving. Fat is mostly healthy unsaturated fats from optional nuts, while carbohydrates are low, especially if fruits are kept minimal.

The salad also delivers fiber from vegetables and optional fruits, contributing to digestive health. Vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium are naturally present from the fresh ingredients. Greek yogurt adds probiotics that support gut health, making this dish both nourishing and satisfying.

Regularly including this type of chicken salad in meals can support weight management, increase protein intake, and provide a nutrient-dense option for lunches or dinners. It is an excellent choice for anyone following a balanced, health-conscious diet.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt can be served in multiple ways to suit any occasion. It pairs beautifully with whole grain bread or wraps for a classic sandwich. Lettuce cups or collard greens provide a low-carb option while keeping the presentation elegant.

For a light meal, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens, adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots for extra color and nutrients. It also works as a filling for pita pockets, offering convenience for packed lunches or on-the-go meals.

Serving the salad chilled enhances flavor and texture, making it refreshing for warm weather or outdoor gatherings. For entertaining, spoon the salad into small appetizer cups or phyllo shells to create bite-sized hors d’oeuvres. Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika on top provides an attractive visual and aromatic appeal.

Pairing this salad with fresh fruit, a crisp white wine, or a lightly toasted baguette elevates it to a meal suitable for casual or special occasions. The versatility in serving options makes it a practical and impressive dish that can adapt to any setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is convenient and saves time. Make sure to remove the skin and chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Is Greek yogurt interchangeable with regular yogurt?
Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which helps bind the salad. Regular yogurt can be used, but it may require straining or additional seasoning to achieve the same consistency.

How long can the salad be stored?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad lasts up to three days. Avoid storing it at room temperature for extended periods.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Chilling enhances the flavors and makes it even more enjoyable.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, the salad is naturally low in carbohydrates. Avoid adding sweet fruits or bread if keeping carbs to a minimum.

Conclusion

Chicken salad with Greek yogurt is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful alternative to traditional chicken salads. Its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and high protein content make it suitable for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without excessive calories.