Healthy Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy chicken salad is a great option for anyone looking for a nutritious, light meal that still satisfies hunger. It’s filled with lean chicken breast, a variety of colorful vegetables, and a creamy yet low-fat dressing. The combination of crunchy textures and bold flavors keeps every bite exciting, making it an enjoyable and filling dish. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced

• 1 cup celery, chopped

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to make the dressing.

4. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with olive oil for extra richness if desired.

6. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if you like, and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add fruits: For a sweet twist, you can add apple slices or grapes to the salad.

• Swap dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, try using avocado or adding a little mayonnaise to the mix.

• Add nuts or seeds: For extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds.

• Make it spicy: Add a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing for a kick.

Storage/Reheating

This healthy chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, and no reheating is required. If you plan to meal prep, it’s an ideal dish to make in advance and enjoy throughout the week.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken works great for this salad! Just make sure it’s properly cooked and shredded or diced into small pieces.

Is this chicken salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! This healthy chicken salad is low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Can I make this chicken salad without Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with plain yogurt, sour cream, or even a mayonnaise-based dressing, depending on your preference.

How long can I keep this chicken salad in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully cooked and cooled before adding them to the salad.

What can I serve this chicken salad with?

You can enjoy it on its own, or serve it over a bed of leafy greens or alongside whole-grain crackers for extra texture.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prepping and can be made the night before. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I make this chicken salad more filling?

To make it more filling, add some quinoa or brown rice to the salad. You can also serve it with a side of whole-wheat bread or a few boiled eggs.

Can I freeze this chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze the salad, as the yogurt-based dressing and fresh vegetables don’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

You can add a variety of vegetables like carrots, spinach, or even avocado for extra creaminess and nutrition.

Conclusion

This healthy chicken salad is a versatile, nutritious dish that can be tailored to your preferences. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and packed with flavors and textures that make each bite a delight. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a meal prep option, or a light dinner, this salad is the perfect choice to fuel your day with fresh, wholesome ingredients.