Introduction

Greek yogurt chicken salad is a refreshing twist on a timeless classic. Combining tender chicken with the creamy tang of Greek yogurt creates a dish that is satisfying yet light.

This recipe offers endless versatility, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or herbs for a personalized touch. Perfect for lunch or as a protein-packed snack, it’s a dish your family will love.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Using cooked chicken as the base provides protein and a satisfying texture. Rotisserie chicken works well here, giving a rich flavor without additional cooking.
1 cup Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt serves as a creamy substitute for mayonnaise, adding a tangy flavor while being lower in fat and higher in protein. Its consistency ensures the salad remains creamy.
1/4 cup celery, diced
Diced celery adds a wonderful crunch and a refreshing flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the yogurt. It also contributes a small amount of fiber.
1/4 cup red grapes, halved
Red grapes bring a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor to the salad, balancing the savory elements. Their juiciness also adds a refreshing contrast.
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Sliced almonds give an extra crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall texture. They’re also a good source of healthy fats.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Dijon mustard adds a subtle sharpness, enhancing the flavor profile of the salad. It brightens the dish and complements the yogurt's tang.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh lemon juice adds acidity, brightening the overall flavor while helping to keep the salad fresh and vibrant. It also adds a touch of freshness.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper is vital for enhancing flavors. Adjusting these to your preference ensures a balanced taste that suits your palate.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by ensuring your chicken is fully cooked and cooled before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. This can be done ahead of time for convenience. The shredded chicken serves as the main ingredient, so uniform size helps with consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Mix the Greek yogurt and mustard

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard until smooth. This step creates a creamy dressing that binds the chicken and vegetables together and enhances the salad's flavor. Ensure there are no lumps for a perfect consistency.

Step 3: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper

Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the yogurt mixture. This step balances the richness of the yogurt with acidity. Tasting the mixture at this point helps you adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 4: Combine chicken with the yogurt mixture

Add the shredded chicken to the mixing bowl and gently fold it into the yogurt mixture until evenly coated. This ensures every piece of chicken is surrounded by the creamy dressing, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the salad.

Step 5: Incorporate celery and grapes

Fold in the diced celery and halved grapes to the chicken mix. The celery adds crunch while the grapes provide sweetness, creating a lovely contrast in textures that makes the salad exciting and enjoyable.

Step 6: Add sliced almonds

Finally, add the sliced almonds and gently toss everything together. This not only adds a crunchy element but also elevates the nutritional value. Reserve a few nuts for garnish if desired.

Step 7: Chill and serve

Refrigerate the Greek yogurt chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This step is essential for enhancing the overall taste profile. Serve it chilled over greens, in a sandwich, or enjoyed on its own.

Exploring Flavor Variations

One of the joys of Greek yogurt chicken salad is its adaptability. Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for a garden-fresh note, or experiment with spices like curry powder for an exotic twist. You can also substitute different fruit, such as apples or dried cranberries, to discover new flavor combinations.

Nutrition Insights

Using Greek yogurt transforms this chicken salad into a healthful choice, packed with protein and lower in calories compared to traditional mayo-based salads. The inclusion of nuts, fruits, and vegetables not only boosts flavor but also enhances the salad's fiber content, making it more filling and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a main dish but can also be a scrumptious side. Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a light meal, use it as a filling for whole-grain wraps, or spoon it into avocado halves for a stylish presentation. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

What can I do if the salad is too thick?

If you find the salad too thick, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen the consistency. Stir it in gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add a kick, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when combining the chicken with the yogurt. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

What if I don't have celery?

If you don't have celery, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can be great substitutes, offering similar crunch and freshness.

Is it possible to use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Its pre-cooked aspect saves time while its seasoned flavor enhances the dish.

Can I add different nuts?

Yes, you can use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they’re chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

How do I avoid the salad being bland?

Tasting during preparation is key. Adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your preference. Fresh herbs can also elevate the flavor.

Conclusion

Greek yogurt chicken salad is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, making it a delightful choice for any meal. With its balanced flavors and nourishing ingredients, it fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or as part of a colorful salad bowl, this dish is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

Recipe Card

Print Pin