If you’re craving something light, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is exactly what you need. It’s a healthy twist on the classic chicken salad, swapping heavy mayonnaise for protein-rich Greek yogurt. The result? A fresh, tangy, and satisfying salad that’s perfect for lunches, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, wrap, lettuce cup, or simply enjoy it on its own, this salad delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and a no-fuss method, it’s ideal for busy days and health-conscious eaters alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, flavorful Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:
Main Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
– ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or full-fat, depending on preference)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for added richness and texture)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adds brightness and balance)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for depth and a hint of sharpness)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or one minced garlic clove)
– ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Crunch & Add-Ins (optional but recommended):
– ½ cup chopped celery (for crunch)
– ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
– ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
– ½ cup red grapes or dried cranberries (for a sweet contrast)
Optional Protein Boost or Variations:
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (for extra protein)
– 2 tablespoons slivered almonds or walnuts (for crunch)
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a creamy, balanced salad full of flavor and texture.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, protein-packed Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t already, shred the cooked chicken using two forks or your hands. Use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breast, or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add Crunch and Flavor
Fold in the chopped celery, red onion, grapes or cranberries, and fresh parsley or dill. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Dressing
Add the shredded chicken to the bowl. Toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated with the creamy yogurt dressing.
Step 5: Chill (Optional for Best Flavor)
For enhanced flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the salad into lettuce cups, over greens, onto whole-grain toast, or with crackers. It also works great in meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches.
This recipe is quick, flexible, and full of fresh, tangy flavor—perfect for healthy eating all week.
Pro Tips and Variations
Take your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to the next level with these expert tips and tasty twists:
Pro Tips
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Ease
Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. It’s a quick option that works beautifully in this recipe.
Adjust Creaminess to Taste
If the salad feels too thick, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to thin it slightly.
Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes helps the flavors blend and creates a more cohesive, delicious bite.
Don’t Overmix
Gently fold ingredients to maintain texture, especially if you’re using grapes or cranberries.
Meal Prep Friendly
Portion it into containers for 3–4 days of high-protein lunches.
Variations
Add a Crunchy Twist
Toss in toasted almonds, chopped walnuts, or sunflower seeds for texture and extra nutrition.
Make It Dairy-Free
Use a plant-based yogurt alternative to create a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and satisfying.
Go Sweet and Savory
Mix in diced apples or dried cranberries with a touch of honey to balance tangy Greek yogurt with natural sweetness.
Spice It Up
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Swap
No fresh parsley or dill? Try basil, tarragon, or chives for a fresh herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving lunch for one or prepping meals for the week, here are some delicious and simple ways to enjoy it:
Classic Sandwich Style
Scoop the salad onto whole grain bread, sourdough, or a toasted bun. Add crisp lettuce, tomato slices, and a touch of mustard or avocado for a heartier bite.
On a Bed of Greens
Serve a generous scoop over mixed greens or baby spinach for a refreshing salad bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavor.
Wrapped Up
Roll it into whole wheat tortillas or low-carb wraps with shredded carrots, cucumbers, or sprouts for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Portion the chicken salad into individual containers with sliced veggies, crackers, or boiled eggs. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days for quick and healthy meals.
Light Dinner Option
Pair with a cup of soup, roasted veggies, or grilled corn for a lighter, satisfying dinner. It’s filling without feeling heavy.
Lettuce Cups
Spoon into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to bread. Great for snacks or party platters.
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad can be dressed up or down, making it ideal for work lunches, picnics, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks.
Conclusion
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is everything you want in a healthy meal—simple, satisfying, and packed with fresh, wholesome flavor. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a lighter take on the classic chicken salad, this recipe delivers every time.
Swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt not only cuts down on calories but also adds a tangy creaminess and a boost of protein. With the right balance of herbs, crisp veggies, and tender chicken, this dish proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste for nutrition.
It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for everything from lunchboxes to quick dinners. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to chicken salad recipe.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Saucepan
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt full-fat or low-fat
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise optional, for extra creaminess
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup celery chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grapes halved, optional for sweetness
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and combined.
- Add the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, grapes, and parsley to the bowl.
- Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the yogurt mixture.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or over greens as a salad.
Notes
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 440mg
- Potassium: 520mg
- Vitamin A: 6% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
FAQs
What does adding Greek yogurt to chicken do?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and moisture to chicken dishes while boosting the protein content. It also acts as a natural tenderizer when used in marinades, keeping chicken juicy.
What happens when you put lemon juice in Greek yogurt?
Lemon juice brightens the flavor of Greek yogurt and adds a subtle tang. It can also thin the yogurt slightly, making it easier to mix into dressings or salads.
How long does chicken salad with yogurt last in the fridge?
Chicken salad made with Greek yogurt lasts up to 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for freshness before serving.
Why do people marinate chicken in Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt contains natural acids and enzymes that help break down proteins in chicken. This process results in a more tender texture and allows flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
