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Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
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Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a creamy, protein-packed twist on the classic chicken salad, using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier, tangy, and satisfying meal. This versatile recipe combines tender cooked chicken with crunchy celery, red onion, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon dressing, making it perfect for lunches, snacks, or picnics. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with optional additions like grapes, nuts, or apples, it offers a delicious and nutritious option for any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full fat or low fat)
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup grapes, halved
  • 1/4 cup nuts (toasted almonds or walnuts), chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped apples
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start with cooked chicken breast, either leftover, rotisserie, or freshly poached. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful has plenty of tender chicken.
  2. Chop the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice celery and red onion finely to add crunch and flavor without overpowering. Chop fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness that brightens the salad.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to create a smooth, tangy dressing that will coat the chicken evenly.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and herbs into the bowl with the yogurt dressing. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed and coated, being careful not to mash the ingredients.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad chill, enhancing its creamy texture and refreshing taste.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt full fat or low fat; full fat yields a creamier texture.
  • Don’t overmix to keep chicken pieces intact and maintain texture.
  • Refrigerate before serving to allow flavors to blend fully.
  • Add nuts or fresh produce just before serving to preserve crunch.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek yogurt chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, protein-packed salad, easy chicken salad, yogurt chicken recipe, low-fat chicken salad

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad/