If you’re searching for a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic favorite, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty, creamy dressing made with tangy Greek yogurt that’s lighter and more vibrant than your usual mayo-based salad. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even a light dinner. You’ll soon see why this dish has become a personal favorite, combining wholesome ingredients with simple preparation for a crowd-pleasing result.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe is in the beautifully balanced ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the juicy chicken, crunchy celery, or the refreshing zing of lemon juice. Together, they unite to form a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, delivering tenderness and savory depth.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: This creamy base adds tanginess and helps keep the salad light and healthy.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick to the dressing with its sharp and spicy notes.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Provides brightness and balances the richness of the yogurt.
- 1/4 cup diced celery: Offers a refreshing crunch that elevates texture.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion: Gives a mild sharpness and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup diced apple (optional): Introduces a hint of sweetness for contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings fresh herbal notes and a vibrant green hue.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional): Adds satisfying crunch and a toasty flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional): Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the salad.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional): Enhances the savory depth of the dressing.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by cooking and shredding or dicing your chicken if it’s not already prepared. A rotisserie chicken works wonders here because it’s tender, flavorful, and saves you time. Let the chicken cool slightly so it blends beautifully without melting the dressing.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and the optional garlic and onion powders until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the salad, delivering that tangy, rich flavor without heaviness.
Step 3: Mix the salad
Now, add your shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, apple (if using), fresh parsley, and sliced almonds (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with that luscious dressing. This step brings all the textures and flavors into perfect harmony.
Step 4: Taste and adjust
Give your salad a little taste test. This is the moment to balance the flavors — add extra salt if it needs a little boost, a squeeze more lemon juice for brightness, or some freshly cracked pepper for bite. Adjusting here ensures the salad is just right for your palate.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to shine! Yet, how you serve it can turn this simple salad into something special. Read on for some fabulous serving ideas.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few whole sliced almonds on top can take the salad’s presentation up a notch. A dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil adds enticing visual appeal and a flavor boost that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This salad is naturally satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad, warm pita bread, or crunchy vegetable sticks. These complement the creamy texture and fresh flavors, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe inside avocado halves for a trendy, nutrient-packed touch or scoop it onto whole grain crackers for an easy appetizer. Wrapping it in a large lettuce leaf or a whole wheat wrap also makes it a fun handheld snack or lunch option perfect for busy days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chicken salad keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually have time to meld and deepen, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and yogurt dressing, freezing isn’t recommended for this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe. The texture and flavor can suffer, particularly from the yogurt separating and veggies becoming mushy.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature for maximum flavor and texture. If you want warm chicken salad, consider gently warming the chicken separately and then tossing it with the salad just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, giving the salad a better texture and tangy flavor. Regular yogurt may result in a thinner dressing, so strain it or consider adding a bit of mayonnaise if you prefer a richer texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe is fantastic for meal prep because it stores well and remains flavorful over a few days. Just keep it refrigerated in a sealed container and enjoy quick, wholesome meals throughout the week.
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegetarian or vegan option, swap the chicken for chickpeas or a plant-based protein, and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative. This will still provide the creamy texture and complementary flavors that make this recipe great.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can work in a pinch. Each will slightly change the flavor profile, but the salad will still be delicious and tangy.
How do I make the salad less tangy?
If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the lemon juice slightly or add a touch more honey or the optional diced apple to balance acidity with sweetness. Adjusting the seasoning allows you to tailor the salad perfectly to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the bright, creamy flavors and easy preparation of this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s not just a salad; it’s a dish you’ll want to come back to time and time again. Whether you’re packing lunch, entertaining friends, or just craving a simple, tasty meal, this recipe is a winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and love it as much as I do!
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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: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a fresh, healthy twist on the classic chicken salad. Made with shredded chicken, creamy plain Greek yogurt, and bright flavors from lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh parsley, it’s a protein-packed, low-fat meal perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on a bed of greens. Optional additions like diced apple and sliced almonds add a delightful sweetness and crunch, making it versatile and satisfying for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 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)
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)
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
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- The diced apple adds sweetness but can be omitted if you prefer a savory salad.
- Sliced almonds add a nice crunch; substitute with walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
