Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe

Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance

Greek yogurt transforms the classic chicken salad into a lighter, more nutritious delight.

Creamy and protein-packed, this modern twist on a traditional favorite brings fresh excitement to lunchtime meals.

Lean chicken combines beautifully with tangy Greek yogurt, creating a healthier alternative to mayonnaise-based recipes.

Home cooks and health enthusiasts appreciate this versatile dish that balances flavor and wellness seamlessly.

The vibrant ingredients marry together, producing a satisfying and wholesome meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious.

Culinary creativity shines through in this simple yet elegant recipe that reimagines a beloved comfort food.

Why Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Feels So Fresh

  • Quick and Hassle-Free Prep: Whips up in just minutes with minimal chopping and simple mixing, perfect for busy weeknight meals or last-minute lunch solutions.
  • Protein-Packed Healthy Option: Swaps mayo for Greek yogurt, creating a lighter, nutrient-dense dish that satisfies hunger while supporting fitness goals.
  • Versatile Serving Styles: Adapts easily to different meal formats – enjoy as a standalone salad, stuffed in a wrap, or served over fresh greens for maximum flexibility.
  • Budget-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Uses common ingredients found in most kitchens, making it an economical choice that appeals to both adults and kids with its fresh, zesty flavor profile.

Ingredients List For Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean protein base for the salad, best to use cooked and shredded chicken for easy mixing.
Creamy Base:
  • Greek Yogurt, Lemon Juice: Tangy and creamy foundation that adds moisture and bright flavor, Greek yogurt provides a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs:
  • Celery, Red Onion, Parsley: Crisp vegetables and herbs that add texture, crunch, and fresh herbal notes to the chicken salad.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How To Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Step 1: Shred Tender Chicken

Tear cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, ensuring the meat is evenly separated and light.

Step 2: Blend Creamy Base

Whisk Greek yogurt with fresh lemon juice until smooth, creating a tangy and rich foundation for the salad.

Step 3: Chop Crisp Vegetables

Prepare vegetables by finely dicing:
  • Celery (for crunch)
  • Red onion (for sharpness)
  • Fresh parsley (for brightness)

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold chopped vegetables into the yogurt-chicken mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Step 5: Season and Enhance

Sprinkle in:
  • Kosher salt
  • Fresh ground black pepper

Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate salad for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve:
  • As a standalone dish
  • Wrapped in soft tortillas
  • Atop crisp mixed greens
  • Alongside whole grain crackers

Smart Tips For Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

  • Boost Protein Power: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick protein boost and save time preparing the salad.
  • Customize Crunch: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture and nutrition without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
  • Lighten Up Dressing: Swap full-fat Greek yogurt with non-fat or low-fat version for a healthier, lighter alternative that maintains creamy consistency.
  • Veggie Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or chives to create unique flavor profiles and keep the salad interesting.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for quick lunches or grab-and-go meals.

How To Store And Chill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the chicken salad fresh and safe to eat.
  • Prevent Sogginess: Keep the salad separate from bread or greens until ready to serve to maintain crisp textures.
  • Cool Down: Always let the chicken salad cool to room temperature before sealing and placing in the refrigerator to prevent condensation.
  • Revive: If the salad seems dry when reheating, add a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice to restore moisture and brighten flavors.

Tasty Sides With Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

  • Crisp Wine Companion: Pair this light chicken salad with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, its zesty acidity complementing the yogurt's tanginess and cutting through the dish's creamy texture.
  • Fresh Herb Crunch: Sprinkle extra chopped dill or chives on top to enhance the salad's herbal notes and add a bright, green layer of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • Rustic Bread Sidekick: Serve alongside toasted sourdough or whole grain bread, creating a delightful textural contrast between the soft chicken salad and the crunchy, slightly tangy bread slices.
  • Cool Cucumber Refresh: Add a side of quick-pickled cucumber salad to introduce a crisp, acidic element that balances the creamy chicken and provides a refreshing palate cleanser.

Easy Ways To Switch Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

  • Low-Carb Lettuce Cups: Replace bread or wrap with crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, keto-friendly version that cuts down on carbohydrates.
  • Vegan Chickpea Alternative: Swap chicken with mashed chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein option that maintains the creamy texture.
  • Herb-Infused Protein: Experiment with different herbs like dill, tarragon, or chives to create unique flavor profiles while keeping the base recipe intact.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, and cilantro for a zesty southwestern-inspired chicken salad with a kick of heat.

FAQ About Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

  • Is Greek yogurt healthier than mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt is lower in calories and fat, and provides more protein compared to traditional mayonnaise, making it a nutritious alternative for creating creamy chicken salad.

  • Can I use leftover grilled or roasted chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly and helps reduce food waste while creating a quick and delicious meal.

  • How long can I keep this chicken salad in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this Greek yogurt chicken salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

  • What are some good protein alternatives if I don't want to use chicken?

You can easily substitute the chicken with canned tuna, cooked shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version of this salad.

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Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe

Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad brings Mediterranean freshness to classic comfort food, blending tender chicken with zesty herbs and tangy yogurt. Protein-packed and light, this dish offers you a delightful meal that satisfies both hunger and palate with its refreshing flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken, shredded/diced

Creamy Base:

  • ½ cup (120 ml) plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice

Vegetables and Herbs:

  • ¼ cup (59 ml) celery, chopped
  • ¼ cup (59 ml) red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Seasonings:

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring no large chunks remain.
  2. In a spacious mixing vessel, blend the Greek yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
  3. Finely dice the crisp celery and red onion, creating uniform, petite pieces for consistent texture.
  4. Gently fold the chopped chicken into the yogurt mixture, coating each morsel evenly.
  5. Incorporate the diced vegetables and freshly chopped parsley into the creamy chicken blend.
  6. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper gradually, tasting and adjusting the seasoning to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
  7. For optimal enjoyment, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
  8. Serve chilled atop a bed of mixed greens, nestled in a whole wheat wrap, or enjoyed as a standalone protein-rich dish.

Notes

  • Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to create a lighter, protein-packed version of classic chicken salad.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick time-saving option that adds extra flavor and reduces prep work.
  • Keep the chicken salad refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and food safety.
  • Customize by adding chopped almonds or dried cranberries for extra crunch and a sweet-tangy twist.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
Sophia Rivera

Sophia Rivera

Recipe Developer & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

  • Baking and Pastry Arts
  • Seasonal and Local Ingredient Utilization
  • Dessert Menu Planning
  • Culinary Event Coordination

Education

Austin Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
  • Focus: Techniques in baking, pastry creation, and dessert presentation.

San Antonio Culinary Institute

  • Program: Diploma in Farm-to-Table Culinary Practices
  • Focus: Emphasis on utilizing locally sourced ingredients and understanding seasonal flavors.

Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. 

Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.

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