Chicken Salad With Greek Yogurt Recipeis a lighter, healthier twist on the classic. It swaps mayonnaise for creamy yogurt, adding protein and a tangy flavor. This recipe is fresh, easy to make, and perfect for quick meals. Whether you want a sandwich, wrap, or salad bowl, it fits right in. Simple ingredients, endless variations, and meal-prep friendly—this chicken salad will quickly become a favorite.
Introduction: Chicken Salad With Greek Yogurt Recipe
Chicken salad is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes often rely on heavy mayonnaise. If you’re looking for a lighter, healthier option, chicken salad with Greek yogurt is the perfect solution. Greek yogurt gives the same creamy texture you expect, but with added protein, probiotics, and fewer calories. It adds a tangy flavor that balances well with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs.
This recipe is more than just a healthier swap—it’s versatile, quick to prepare, and easy to customize. You can keep it simple with a few ingredients or add fruits, nuts, or spices to make it your own. It works great for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or even as a high-protein snack on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of chicken salad with Greek yogurt is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken
Cooked and shredded chicken breast is the most common choice. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works perfectly for convenience. For extra flavor, you can also use grilled or baked chicken.
Greek Yogurt
Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is key—it keeps the salad creamy without added sugar. Choose full-fat for richness, or nonfat for a lighter option. If you prefer a milder flavor, mix Greek yogurt with a spoonful of light mayonnaise.
Vegetables and Crunchy Add-Ins
- Celery: adds crunch and freshness.
- Red onion or green onion: gives a sharp bite and flavor contrast.
- Bell peppers or cucumbers: optional, for extra color and texture.
Herbs and Seasonings
Fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro: brighten the flavor. Salt and black pepper: essential for balance. Garlic powder, paprika, or mustard: optional for depth.
Optional Add-Ins
- Grapes, apples, or dried cranberries: add sweetness.
- Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds: provide crunch and healthy fats.
- Avocado: makes the salad creamier and nutrient-rich.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions:
Replace chicken with canned tuna or turkey for variety. Use dairy-free yogurt if you want a lactose-free option. Swap celery with carrots if you want a milder crunch.
The Best Chicken to Use
The success of your chicken salad with Greek yogurt starts with the chicken itself. Choosing the right type and preparing it well will give your salad the best flavor and texture.
Chicken Breast
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the most popular option. It’s lean, mild in flavor, and pairs well with creamy yogurt. Best when poached, baked, or grilled, then shredded or diced.
Rotisserie Chicken
A quick and convenient choice if you don’t want to cook from scratch. Simply remove the skin, shred the meat, and you’re ready to go. Great for saving time while still getting tender, flavorful chicken.
Leftover Chicken
Any leftover roasted, grilled, or baked chicken works well. This reduces food waste and makes meal prep effortless. Just make sure the seasoning on the chicken complements your salad.
Dark Meat Option
Chicken thighs can also be used if you prefer juicier meat. They add richness and moisture, though they’re slightly higher in fat.
Tips for Shredding Chicken Easily:
While still warm, shred chicken with two forks or a hand mixer on low speed. Store shredded chicken in the fridge so it’s ready for salads, wraps, or meal prep.
Meal-Prep Shortcut:
Cook a batch of chicken at the start of the week. Shred, portion, and refrigerate or freeze for quick salads whenever you need them.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
This recipe comes together quickly and requires only a few simple steps. Whether you’re making it fresh or using leftovers, here’s how to prepare a creamy and healthy chicken salad with Greek yogurt.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If cooking from scratch, poach, bake, or grill chicken breast until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, simply remove the skin and shred.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, add plain Greek yogurt. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Stir in optional flavor boosters like garlic powder, Dijon mustard, or paprika.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Herbs
Dice celery, onions, and any other crunchy vegetables you like. Chop fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro. Mix them into the yogurt dressing for freshness and texture.
Step 4: Combine with Chicken
Add the shredded chicken into the bowl with the dressing mixture. Stir gently until the chicken is fully coated and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Customize with Add-Ins (optional)
- For sweetness: fold in halved grapes, apple chunks, or dried cranberries.
- For crunch: add sliced almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- For creaminess: stir in avocado cubes.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. This step enhances creaminess and makes the salad refreshing.
Quick Tip:
If you prefer a lighter flavor, mix half Greek yogurt and half light mayonnaise for the dressing. This keeps the creaminess while softening the tang of yogurt.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
One of the best parts about chicken salad with Greek yogurt is how customizable it is. You can adapt the flavors, textures, and ingredients to fit your preferences, dietary needs, or what you already have at home. Here are some delicious ways to switch it up:
Fruity Chicken Salad
Add halved grapes, diced apples, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Pairs beautifully with fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Nutty & Crunchy Version
Mix in sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds. Gives the salad a hearty crunch and extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a pinch of cayenne, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños. For a smoky twist, add a little chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
Avocado Chicken Salad
Mash half an avocado into the yogurt dressing for extra creaminess. Adds healthy fats and a buttery texture.
Mediterranean Style
Include cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Season with oregano or za’atar for a Greek-inspired flavor.
Low-Carb / Keto Version
Skip sweet add-ins like grapes or apples. Load it with celery, cucumbers, and avocado for a filling, low-carb option.
Light & Refreshing Option
Use nonfat Greek yogurt and plenty of crunchy vegetables. Great for those looking for a low-calorie meal prep idea.
Substitution Ideas
- Protein: Swap chicken for turkey, canned tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
- Yogurt: Use dairy-free Greek-style yogurt if lactose intolerant.
- Veggies: Replace celery with carrots or bell peppers for a sweeter crunch.
- Mix-ins: Try seasonal ingredients like pomegranate seeds in winter or fresh mango in summer.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad
A good chicken salad should be creamy, flavorful, and balanced in texture. Here are some helpful tips to make sure your chicken salad with Greek yogurt turns out delicious every time:
Use Tender, Shredded Chicken
Overcooked chicken can make the salad dry. Poaching or baking chicken breast keeps it moist. Shredding while the chicken is still warm makes the process easier.
Choose the Right Yogurt
Go for plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt to avoid added sugars. Full-fat yogurt makes it richer; low-fat or nonfat keeps it lighter. If you find yogurt too tangy, mix in a spoonful of light mayo for balance.
Keep the Texture Balanced
Combine creamy chicken with crunchy add-ins like celery, onions, or nuts. Don’t overload with mix-ins—too many can overwhelm the chicken.
Season Well
Salt and pepper are essential to bring out the flavors. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of Dijon mustard brightens the dressing. Taste and adjust before serving.
Chill Before Eating
Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to meld and improves the overall texture.
Customize in Small Batches
If you want to try different add-ins (grapes, nuts, avocado), divide the salad into smaller portions and experiment. This way, you get variety without committing the whole batch to one flavor.
Avoid Watery Salad
Pat vegetables like cucumbers dry before adding them. If using yogurt with extra liquid, drain it first to keep the salad thick and creamy.
Store It Properly
Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh. Consume within 3–4 days for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Ideas
One of the best things about chicken salad with Greek yogurt is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as part of a meal prep plan. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
Classic Sandwich
Spoon the chicken salad between slices of whole-grain bread or sourdough. Add lettuce, tomato, or cucumber slices for freshness. For extra crunch, toast the bread lightly before assembling.
Wraps and Pita Pockets
Roll the salad in a whole-wheat tortilla with leafy greens for a portable lunch. Or stuff it into pita bread halves for a quick and hearty option.
Lettuce Cups
Use crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative to bread. Perfect for light lunches, keto meals, or party appetizers.
Over a Bed of Greens
Turn it into a salad bowl by serving over mixed greens, spinach, or arugula. Top with extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
Salad in a Jar
Layer greens, chicken salad, and toppings in a mason jar for meal prep. Keep dressing or juicy add-ins separate to avoid sogginess.
With Crackers or Veggie Sticks
Pair with whole-grain crackers, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks for a quick snack. Great as a party platter or after-school bite.
Stuffed Vegetables
Hollow out tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocados and fill them with chicken salad. This makes a colorful, nutrient-rich, and fun presentation.
As a Protein-Packed Side
Serve alongside soups, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables. Works well as a make-ahead side dish for family meals.
Make Ahead, Storing & Meal Prep
Chicken salad with Greek yogurt is perfect for preparing ahead of time. With the right storage methods, it stays fresh, creamy, and safe to eat for days. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Make Ahead Tips
Cook and shred chicken in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Mix the dressing separately and combine with the chicken just before serving for the freshest taste. For meal prep, divide the salad into single-serve containers to grab and go.
How to Store Chicken Salad
Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3–4 days when properly chilled. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as dairy and chicken spoil quickly.
Preventing Watery Salad
Greek yogurt may release liquid after sitting. Simply stir the salad before serving to bring back the creamy texture. Pat juicy add-ins like cucumbers or grapes dry before mixing them in.
Freezing Note
Freezing chicken salad is not recommended, as yogurt tends to separate when thawed. Instead, freeze just the shredded chicken and add the yogurt dressing later when you’re ready to prepare the salad.
Meal Prep Ideas
Store in individual jars or containers with leafy greens and toppings kept separate. Assemble wraps or sandwiches in the morning for lunch, but keep them chilled until eating. For quick snacks, portion the salad with crackers or veggie sticks in snack boxes.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
Chicken salad with Greek yogurt isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrition. By swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, you turn a heavy dish into a lighter, protein-rich option that fits into many healthy eating plans.
Lower in Calories and Fat
Traditional chicken salad made with mayo can be calorie-dense and high in unhealthy fats. Greek yogurt cuts back on excess calories while still keeping the salad creamy.
High in Protein
Both chicken and Greek yogurt are excellent sources of lean protein. This makes the salad filling, muscle-friendly, and great for post-workout meals.
Rich in Probiotics
Greek yogurt contains probiotics that support gut health and digestion. Choosing plain, unsweetened yogurt ensures you’re getting these benefits without added sugar.
Nutrient Boost from Add-Ins
Fresh vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Nuts and seeds add healthy fats and extra crunch. Fruits like apples or grapes bring natural sweetness plus antioxidants.
Versatile for Different Diets
Works well for low-carb, keto (when fruits are limited), or high-protein diets. Can be made gluten-free by pairing with lettuce cups, rice cakes, or gluten-free bread. Dairy-free yogurt alternatives make it suitable for lactose-free diets.
Sample Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 180–220 (varies by add-ins)
- Protein: 20–25g
- Fat: 6–10g
- Carbohydrates: 5–10g
- Fiber: 1–2g
Conclusion
In short, Chicken Salad With Greek Yogurt Recipe is a light, healthy, and satisfying twist on a classic favorite. It’s creamy, customizable, and packed with protein—perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or meal prep. With endless variations and serving options, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
FAQS
Chicken Salad With Greek Yogurt Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Add chicken, grapes, celery, onion, Greek yogurt, almonds, mustard, parsley, pepper and salt into a large bowl.
- Mixing bowl with ingredients for Greek yogurt chicken salad before being mixed. Ingredients in the bowl are grapes, celery, parsley, greek yogurt, red onion, almonds and chicken.
- Toss to combine. Taste and add more yogurt, salt and pepper, if needed.
- Mixing bowl with a spoon stirring chicken salad studded with celery and grapes.
- Enjoy right away or chill before serving. Serve with crackers for a snack or appetizer, on bread or a wrap for a sandwich or over a bed of greens.
- Place salad in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep for 3-5 days.