Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is creamy, flavorful, and much healthier than traditional versions. Greek yogurt adds a boost of protein and a pleasant tang without all the added fat. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or quick dinners. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.

Ingredients

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

cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
plain Greek yogurt
celery
red onion
grapes or apples (chopped)
dijon mustard
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
fresh parsley or dill (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Use pre-cooked or leftover chicken. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Veggies and Fruit: Stir in chopped celery, red onion, and grapes or apples.
4. Combine with Chicken: Add the chicken to the bowl and mix until evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes
Total time: 15–45 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add sliced almonds, walnuts, or pecans for texture.
• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Curry Chicken Salad: Add curry powder and golden raisins for a flavorful twist.
• Mediterranean Style: Add cucumber, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta.
• Avocado Mash: Mix in mashed avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.
• Dried Cranberries: Use dried cranberries instead of grapes or apples for a sweet-tart flavor.
• No Fruit: Skip the fruit and add extra crunch with chopped bell peppers or cucumbers.
• Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil, chives, or tarragon for a burst of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Not recommended, as this is best enjoyed cold. For warm chicken salad variations, reheat only the chicken before mixing in other ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and makes this recipe even quicker.

Is Greek yogurt healthier than mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt is lower in fat and higher in protein than mayonnaise, making it a healthier alternative.

What kind of Greek yogurt should I use?

Use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt — either full-fat, 2%, or non-fat based on your preference.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative that’s plain and unsweetened.

What’s the best way to serve this chicken salad?

Serve it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, over greens, or with crackers.

Can I freeze Greek yogurt chicken salad?

No, freezing may alter the texture of the yogurt and vegetables. It’s best eaten fresh or refrigerated.

How long does it need to chill?

It can be eaten immediately, but chilling for 30 minutes enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, though freshly cooked chicken offers better texture and flavor.

How do I keep it from getting watery?

Use thick Greek yogurt and pat any wet ingredients (like grapes or apples) dry before mixing.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge and actually tastes better as it sits and the flavors develop.

Conclusion

Greek yogurt chicken salad is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Whether you’re packing lunch, preparing a quick dinner, or hosting a picnic, this lighter version of chicken salad offers all the creamy satisfaction you love—with fewer calories and more protein. Customizable and easy to make, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

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Greek yogurt chicken salad is a healthy, protein-rich twist on the classic chicken salad. Made with creamy Greek yogurt instead of mayo, it’s packed with lean chicken, crunchy veggies, and a hint of sweetness from fruit.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15–45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grapes or apples, chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare cooked chicken by shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add celery, red onion, and grapes or apples to the bowl and mix to combine.
4. Add the shredded chicken and stir until evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.

Notes

• Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience.
• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
• Serve in sandwiches, lettuce cups, wraps, or over greens.
• Use thick Greek yogurt to prevent a watery salad.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 75mg