Healthy Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is fresh, filling, and incredibly versatile. By using Greek yogurt or light mayo and loading it with veggies, it keeps things nutritious without compromising on flavor. It’s great for lunchboxes, low-carb meals, or easy weeknight dinners. Plus, it comes together in minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
• Plain Greek yogurt (or a mix of Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise)
• Celery (finely chopped)
• Red onion or green onion (finely chopped)
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper
• Optional add-ins: grapes, chopped apples, almonds, walnuts, fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the cooked chicken, celery, and onion. Stir until everything is well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in any optional ingredients such as grapes or nuts if using.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
6. Serve in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, pita pockets, or on a bed of greens.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap Greek yogurt for mashed avocado for a dairy-free version.
• Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
• Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
• Mix in dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a fall-inspired twist.
• Stir in fresh herbs like tarragon, dill, or basil for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate when thawed.
Serve chilled; no reheating is required.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will offer better texture and flavor.

How do I cook chicken for this recipe?

Bake, boil, or grill chicken breast until fully cooked, then shred or dice once cooled.

Can I use regular mayonnaise?

Yes, but consider using a light version or a half-and-half mix with Greek yogurt to keep it healthier.

What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?

Serve in lettuce cups, whole-grain wraps, sandwiches, or over greens for a low-carb option.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Absolutely—halved grapes, chopped apples, or dried cranberries add a great sweet contrast.

Is this chicken salad low-carb?

Yes, as long as you skip sugary add-ins and serve it without bread.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative in place of Greek yogurt.

What herbs work well in chicken salad?

Parsley, dill, tarragon, chives, and basil all add fresh flavor.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Conclusion

Healthy Chicken Salad is a fresh, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is simple. With lean chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s a versatile recipe that fits any lifestyle—from low-carb to light and wholesome. Whether you eat it in a wrap, on a salad, or straight from the bowl, this chicken salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Healthy Chicken Salad

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Healthy Chicken Salad is a protein-packed, creamy-yet-light dish made with shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for wraps, sandwiches, or low-carb lunches, it’s easy to make, flavorful, and great for meal prep.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1. 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
2. 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or half Greek yogurt and half light mayo)
3. 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
4. 2 tablespoons red onion or green onion, finely chopped
5. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
6. 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Optional add-ins: grapes (halved), chopped apples, sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, fresh herbs (dill, parsley)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.

1. Add cooked chicken, celery, and onion. Stir to combine and coat evenly.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Fold in any optional ingredients like grapes or nuts, if using.
4. Chill for 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
5. Serve in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, pitas, or over a salad.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
• Swap Greek yogurt for mashed avocado for a dairy-free version.
• Add fresh herbs for extra flavor and freshness.
• This salad is perfect for low-carb, gluten-free, or high-protein diets.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 65mg