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This hearty Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad has become my go-to lunch option for busy weekdays. The creamy texture of Greek yogurt provides all the richness of traditional mayo-based chicken salad but with a healthier profile and added protein boost.
I first created this recipe during a health-conscious phase after the holidays, and it's remained in my regular rotation for years. My family doesn't even notice the mayo is missing thanks to the creamy texture of the Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy base with extra protein and less fat than traditional mayonnaise
- Cooked chicken: Provides lean protein. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience
- Celery: Adds essential crunch and freshness to balance the creamy components
- Red onion: Contributes sharp flavor that cuts through the creaminess. Soak in ice water beforehand to reduce intensity
- Fresh herbs: Bring brightness and color. Experiment with different combinations based on your preference
- Optional add-ins: Like grapes and nuts create texture contrast and interesting flavor dimensions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- If using raw chicken breasts, simmer them in water for about 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra flavor, add bay leaves or herbs to the cooking water. Allow chicken to cool completely before shredding with two forks or cubing with a sharp knife. Rotisserie chicken saves time and often provides more flavor.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the celery into small uniform pieces about ¼ inch thick. For the red onion, aim for a fine dice to distribute the flavor without overwhelming bites. If using bell pepper, remove seeds and white membrane before dicing. Chop herbs just before mixing to preserve maximum freshness and aromatic qualities.
- Mix the Dressing:
- Use a large bowl to combine Greek yogurt and herbs. This creates the flavorful base of your salad. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go. The yogurt will need more seasoning than you might expect to properly flavor the chicken.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the prepared chicken and vegetables to the yogurt mixture. Fold gently with a spatula rather than stirring vigorously. This preserves the texture of the ingredients while ensuring even distribution of the dressing. If adding grapes or nuts, fold them in last to maintain their integrity.
- Serve or Refrigerate:
- The salad can be enjoyed immediately but benefits from at least 30 minutes of refrigeration to allow flavors to meld. Store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
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The Greek yogurt is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered its versatility when I ran out of mayonnaise one day and needed a substitute. The tanginess perfectly complements the chicken, and now I actually prefer this version to the traditional recipe my mother made throughout my childhood.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This chicken salad actually improves after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours, making it perfect for meal prep. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, and the yogurt maintains its creamy texture without separating. Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Avoid freezing as the yogurt and vegetables will change texture significantly when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
While this chicken salad makes a delicious sandwich filling on whole grain bread, try thinking beyond the bread. Serve it in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, stuff it into halved avocados for a restaurant-worthy presentation, or pile it atop mixed greens for a complete meal. For entertaining, small portions served on cucumber rounds or endive leaves make elegant appetizers that disappear quickly.
Customization Options
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped olives, cucumber and a pinch of oregano. For a curry version, mix in a teaspoon of curry powder, some golden raisins and toasted cashews. If you prefer a sweeter profile, diced apple and dried cranberries work wonderfully. Feel free to adjust the amount of Greek yogurt based on your preference for creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this salad?
Shredded or cubed cooked chicken works perfectly. You can use boiled, baked, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- → Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
It’s best to stick with plain Greek yogurt to balance the flavors. Flavored yogurt may add unnecessary sweetness.
- → What are good optional add-ins?
You can add grapes, apples, walnuts, or almonds for additional texture and flavor complexity.
- → How can I store the chicken salad?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best freshness.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is a great option for meal prepping. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.