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Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal? Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is the perfect solution! Not only does it take just 10 minutes to prepare, but it’s also packed with protein, probiotics, and fresh flavors. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or a nutritious meal prep option, this recipe is a game-changer.
Why Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a Must-Try
Traditional chicken salad recipes often use mayonnaise, which is high in fat and calories. By swapping mayo with Greek yogurt, you get a creamy, tangy, and nutrient-dense alternative without compromising taste. Plus, Greek yogurt adds an extra protein boost, making this salad even more satisfying.
The Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt in Your Salad
- High in Protein – Keeps you full for longer and helps with muscle recovery.
- Rich in Probiotics – Supports gut health and digestion.
- Lower in Calories & Fat – A guilt-free way to enjoy a creamy chicken salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 🥄 ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 🟡 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 🧄 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 🧅 ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- 🥒 ¼ cup celery (chopped) – for crunch
- 🍇 ¼ cup red grapes (halved) – for sweetness
- 🌰 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts) – for texture
- 🌿 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley – for freshness
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This makes the process quick and efficient.
Step 2: Shred or Dice the Chicken
You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or boiled chicken. Shredded chicken blends well with the dressing, but diced chicken works too.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
Add the chicken to the bowl and mix until well coated. Stir in optional add-ins like celery, grapes, or nuts.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give it a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the salad feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice or a little extra yogurt to loosen it up.
Best Ways to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Classic Sandwich or Wrap
Scoop it into whole-grain bread or a wrap for a delicious, protein-packed meal.
Salad Bowl for a Low-Carb Option
Serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a light and refreshing meal.
Lettuce Cups for a Keto-Friendly Meal
Spoon the chicken salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, crunchy alternative.
Why Greek Yogurt is a Healthier Choice than Mayonnaise
Lower Calories and Fat Content
Greek yogurt contains significantly fewer calories and fat than mayonnaise, making it a healthier alternative.
Packed with Protein for Muscle Growth
A great option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need high-protein meals.
Probiotics for Better Digestion
Greek yogurt promotes gut health, unlike mayo, which has no probiotic benefits.
Variations of Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Add olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Buffalo Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Mix in a little hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a buffalo-flavored version.
Sweet and Crunchy Apple Walnut Version
Add diced apples and walnuts for a sweet, crunchy variation.
How to Store Leftover Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Refrigeration Tips for Freshness
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can You Freeze It?
Greek yogurt doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the Wrong Type of Yogurt – Always use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt.
- Adding Too Much or Too Little Dressing – Start small and adjust as needed.
- Not Seasoning Properly – Don’t forget salt, pepper, and herbs!
Nutritional Value of Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
The nutritional value of Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Below is an estimated breakdown per 1 serving (approximately 1 cup of chicken salad) without additional add-ins like nuts, fruits, or cheese.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200-250 kcal |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Fat | ~5-8g |
| Carbohydrates | ~3-5g |
| Fiber | ~0.5g |
| Sugar | ~2-3g |
| Cholesterol | ~60-80mg |
| Sodium | ~300-400mg |
| Calcium | ~10% DV |
| Iron | ~6% DV |
Conclusion
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal you can whip up in just 10 minutes. With its creamy texture, high protein content, and endless variations, it’s the perfect meal for anyone looking for a healthy alternative to traditional chicken salad.
FAQs
- Can I use canned chicken for this recipe? Yes, just drain and shred it before mixing.
- How long does Greek yogurt chicken salad last in the fridge? Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- What can I substitute for Greek yogurt? Try sour cream or mashed avocado.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Absolutely! It stays fresh for days.
- Can I add fruit to Greek yogurt chicken salad? Yes! Grapes, apples, and cranberries work great.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad in Just 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a light, creamy, and protein-packed twist on the classic chicken salad. By swapping mayo for Greek yogurt, this dish becomes a healthier, probiotic-rich option without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for meal prep, sandwiches, wraps, or low-carb lettuce cups, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ready in just 10 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 🥄 ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 🟡 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 🧄 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 🧅 ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- 🥒 ¼ cup celery (chopped) – for crunch
- 🍇 ¼ cup red grapes (halved) – for sweetness
- 🌰 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts) – for texture
- 🌿 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley – for freshness
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Ingredients: Gather and prep all ingredients for easy assembly.
2️⃣ Shred or Dice Chicken: Use leftover grilled, rotisserie, or boiled chicken. Shredding blends better, but diced works too.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4️⃣ Mix Everything Together: Add the chicken and stir until well coated. If using optional add-ins like celery, grapes, or nuts, fold them in now.
5️⃣ Adjust Consistency: If the salad is too thick, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or more Greek yogurt.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Serve in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or lettuce cups.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course, Salad, Meal Prep
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Keywords: healthy chicken salad, Greek yogurt chicken salad, high-protein meal, meal prep, low-calorie salad, easy lunch, healthy chicken recipe, no-mayo chicken salad, quick dinner, keto-friendly salad
How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad in Just 10 Minutes
Make a healthy, protein-packed Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad in just 10 minutes! low in calories—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep!
Type: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Healthy
Keywords: high-protein, low-carb, meal prep, healthy lunch, quick recipe, keto-friendly
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Calories: ~200-250 kcal per serving
Preparation Time: PT10M
Cooking Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Recipe Ingredients: