If you’re craving a delightfully fresh and healthy twist on a classic, you’ll absolutely love this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s a lively mix of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and bright flavors all brought together with creamy Greek yogurt instead of mayo, making it lighter yet just as satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something quick but full of personality, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal without skimping on taste or texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role, whether adding creaminess, crunch, or a hint of zest to keep things exciting and fresh.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Rotisserie chicken is your best shortcut for tender, flavorful meat without the fuss.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: This creamy, protein-packed base replaces traditional mayo for a healthier punch and a subtle tang.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor, waking up the palate.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the whole salad with refreshing citrusy notes.
- 1/4 cup diced celery: Brings a crisp crunch that contrasts perfectly with the smooth yogurt.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion: Imparts a sharp, savory bite that elevates the complexity.
- 1/4 cup diced apple (optional): A sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with savory chicken.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh herbal aroma.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional): Provides delightful crunch and nutty flavor for an extra dimension.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to tie all the flavors together.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional): Offers a subtle garlicky warmth that deepens the savoriness.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional): Enhances the onion flavor without overpowering.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken. Using rotisserie chicken here saves time and adds amazing flavor, but homemade cooked chicken works beautifully too. Let it cool just enough so it won’t wilt your fresh ingredients when combined.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and the optional garlic and onion powders until you achieve a velvety, creamy dressing. This mixture is the heart of the salad, enveloping every ingredient with flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
Now add the chicken, diced celery, red onion, diced apple if using, fresh parsley, and sliced almonds if you want that lovely crunch. Gently fold everything together, making sure each bite gets a perfect coating of the tangy yogurt dressing.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your chicken salad a taste test. This is the moment to amp up the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you want even more zing. Personalizing this step ensures it’s exactly how you love it.
Step 5: Serve
Serve this vibrant Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe piled high on a bed of crisp greens, nestled into a wrap, or scooped onto whole grain bread for a wholesome sandwich. It’s also terrific with crunchy crackers as a snack or side dish.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or some extra sliced almonds on top adds an inviting touch. A little lemon zest brightens the plate visually and tastes heavenly with the salad’s creamy texture.
Side Dishes
Complement this chicken salad with fresh fruit slices, a light quinoa salad, or crunchy crudités to create a balanced meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party idea, spoon the salad into mini toasted pita cups or endive leaves for an elegant appetizer. You can also stuff ripe avocados for a creamy, nutrient-dense bite that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks during a busy week.
Freezing
Because of the fresh yogurt and crunchy vegetables, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture and flavor can degrade upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply give it a good stir and serve straight from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
While regular yogurt can work in a pinch, Greek yogurt’s thicker texture and higher protein content make it the ideal choice for this chicken salad to achieve that creamy, satisfying bite.
Is it okay to add other fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with grapes, dried cranberries, walnuts, or pecans to customize the salad to your taste preferences and add more variety.
How do I make this salad vegan?
You can swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based yogurt alternative. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the fresh, tangy profile.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better after the flavors meld for a few hours, just keep it chilled and add any crunchy toppings like almonds right before serving.
What are some good bread options to serve with this chicken salad?
Whole grain bread, crusty baguettes, or even a soft pita pocket all pair wonderfully with the creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe for a delicious sandwich experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fresh, nourishing lunch or light dinner option that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe is a total winner. It’s quick to prepare, full of vibrant flavors, and endlessly versatile, making it a staple worth having in your recipe collection. Go ahead and try it — I promise it will brighten up your mealtime!
Print
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A light and healthy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad that combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy yogurt-based dressing, fresh vegetables, and optional crunchy almonds for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or a nutritious snack, this recipe uses simple ingredients and takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
Add-ins
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced apple (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred or dice your chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook fresh chicken breast or thighs. Let it cool slightly before assembling the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Mix the salad: Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, apple (if using), parsley, and sliced almonds (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything together until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for added brightness.
- Serve: Serve the Greek yogurt chicken salad on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on whole grain bread for a healthy sandwich. You can also serve it with crackers or as a side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute plain yogurt with low-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like dill or chives.
- The diced apple adds sweetness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
