Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe: A Healthy and Creamy Twist on a Classic
This Greek Yoghurt Chicken Salad replaces traditional mayonnaise with tangy, protein-packed Greek yoghurt, making it a lighter but equally creamy version of the classic dish. Tender chicken is combined with crunchy veggies, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon for a refreshing twist. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, prepping meals for the week, or planning a picnic, this versatile chicken salad pairs perfectly with bread, crackers, lettuce wraps, or just a fork. Nutritious, flavourful, and easy to make, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation!
🕒 Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (if cooking chicken from scratch)
- Marinating Time: None
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: ~26g
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Fibre: ~1g
- Sugar: ~3 g
- Fat: ~10 g
(Nutrition varies depending on ingredients and portion size.)
🥦 Ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yoghurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Mix-Ins:
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup apple, diced (optional, for sweetness and crunch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If you’re starting with raw chicken, poach or bake it. To poach, place chicken breasts in a pot of simmering water or chicken broth and cook for 15–20 minutes, until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly before shredding or dicing. Alternatively, use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yoghurt, olive oil (if using), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, apple, parsley (or dill), and nuts (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Mix everything together until well-coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Let the chicken salad sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together (optional).
– Serve as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, over greens, with crackers, or simply enjoy it on its own!
💡 Helpful Tips:
✔️Use Fresh Chicken: Poach, bake, grill, or shred from rotisserie chicken—it’s all about convenience and personal taste.
✔️Pick High-Quality Yoghurt: Full-fat or low-fat plain Greek yoghurt works best for a creamy and tangy flavour. Avoid flavoured yoghurts.
✔️Chill for Best Flavour: Although it’s delicious right away, refrigerating the salad for a bit allows all the flavours to come together.
✔️Dice Small: Chop all your mix-ins into small, uniform pieces for better texture and even distribution in every bite.
✔️Keep It Simple: Start with the base recipe, then experiment with add-ins based on your personal preferences!
🔄 Variations of This Recipe:
✅Spicy Greek Yoghurt Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
✅Mediterranean-Inspired Chicken Salad: Mix in kalamata olives, diced cucumbers, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean spin.
✅Curry Chicken Salad: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder to the dressing and substitute raisins for the apple.
✅Avocado Chicken Salad: Replace half the yoghurt with mashed ripe avocado for a creamier, slightly richer salad.
✅ Crunchy Veggie Twist: Add shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or cabbage for extra crunch and nutrition.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions:
❓Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s a great option for meal prep or busy days.
❓Can I substitute Greek yoghurt?
If you don’t like Greek yoghurt, you can use plain regular yoghurt, sour cream, or a mix of light mayo and Greek yoghurt for a slightly different flavour and texture.
❓Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken salad is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients used (like mustard) are labelled gluten-free.
❓Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the yoghurt and fresh veggies may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
❓Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works just as well and is a great option for post-holiday meals.
👨🍳 Chef Tips:
✅Poaching Chicken Perfectly: For juicy chicken, simmer it gently (not boil) and add aromatics like bay leaves, garlic, or black peppercorns to the water for extra flavour.
✅Taste Before Serving: Always taste the chicken salad after mixing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
✅Upgrade Your Texture: Toast the nuts for extra crunch, and add a small handful of dried cranberries for a sweet bite.
✅ Portion Control: Use a large ice cream scoop to portion the salad evenly for sandwiches or lunch prep.
✅Get Creative: Don’t like celery? Swap it for cucumbers. Prefer sweeter? Add more apples or dried fruit. Make it yours!
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This Greek Yoghurt Chicken Salad is a fast, healthy, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for everything from meal-prepped lunches to picnics and potlucks. With its light, creamy texture and customisable nature, you’ll never go back to old-school chicken salad again. Enjoy every bite! 🥗🐓
