Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Okay, friends, let’s talk about lunch. Specifically, let’s talk about this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad. It’s like the chicken salad your grandma used to make, but with a healthy twist that doesn’t sacrifice any of that creamy, comforting flavor. I swear, once you try it, you’ll never go back to the mayo-drenched version again. I used to be a die-hard traditional chicken salad person, but honestly, this is just…better. It’s lighter, brighter, and packed with protein. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken! I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has saved me from ordering takeout on busy weeknights. The subtle tang of the Greek yogurt, combined with the crunch of the celery and the sweetness of the grapes, makes it an absolute flavor explosion. And did I mention it’s incredibly easy to whip up? You’ll be enjoying a delicious, healthy lunch in minutes. If you love a good tuna salad sandwich then you will definitely enjoy this recipe!

What is Greek yogurt chicken salad?

Think of Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad as the healthier, more sophisticated cousin of your classic chicken salad. It’s essentially cooked chicken – I often use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time – mixed with celery, grapes, and a creamy dressing. The big difference? Instead of mayonnaise, we’re using Greek yogurt. This swap not only cuts down on fat and calories but also adds a delightful tang that brightens up the whole dish. It’s essentially a delicious and nutritious protein packed meal. It’s essentially a symphony of flavors and textures that come together in a simple, satisfying way. It’s not just chicken salad; it’s an upgrade.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I even begin? What I love most about this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is how incredibly versatile it is. You can serve it on crackers, in a sandwich, over a bed of lettuce, or even straight out of the bowl (guilty!). The flavor is just outstanding. The creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy base that perfectly complements the savory chicken and the sweet grapes. The celery adds a satisfying crunch, and a touch of Dijon mustard gives it a little extra zing. Seriously, the flavor balance is spot on. Plus, it’s so easy to make! You just chop up some ingredients, mix them together, and you’re done. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. This recipe is also surprisingly cost-effective. Chicken is relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your fridge. I also love that this is a healthier option compared to the traditional version made with a ton of mayo. This means you can indulge without feeling guilty. If you’re looking for something similar, you may also enjoy my tuna salad recipe which is also incredibly easy to make! Really, what’s not to love? It’s the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and health.

How do I make Greek yogurt chicken salad?

Quick Overview

Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is as simple as chopping, mixing, and enjoying! You’ll start by dicing cooked chicken, celery, and grapes. Then, you’ll whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings to create the tangy dressing. Finally, you’ll combine everything in a bowl, give it a good mix, and that’s it! Seriously, it only takes about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect quick and easy lunch or snack. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to your liking. Add more or less of any ingredient, or throw in some extras like chopped nuts or dried cranberries. It’s your chicken salad, so make it your own!

Ingredients

What is the recipe for chicken salad?
* 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
* 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (I prefer plain, non-fat)
* 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup red grapes, halved or quartered
* 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

What are the steps of

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by dicing your cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat before dicing. I always do this when the chicken is still slightly warm, as it’s easier to work with. Make sure to remove any bones or cartilage. The smaller the pieces, the better the salad texture will be, in my opinion.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Grapes

Finely chop the celery and red onion. You want them small enough to add crunch without overpowering the other flavors. Halve or quarter the red grapes, depending on their size. I like to use seedless grapes for convenience, but any kind will work. Pro tip: if you’re using grapes with seeds, remove them before adding them to the salad. No one wants to bite into a seed!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. I always taste the dressing at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup. If you like it tangier, add a little more lemon juice.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, chopped celery, red onion, and grapes. Set aside. What is the best way to serve Chicken Salad with dressing? How do I make chicken salad mushy?

Step 5: Chill (Optional, but Recommended)

For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill. I often make this in the morning and let it sit in the fridge all day, so it’s ready to go when lunchtime rolls around. You can even make it the night before!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad on crackers, in a sandwich, over lettuce, or enjoy it with Grilled Cheese. Straight from the bowl. I love to serve it on whole wheat crackers with a side of fresh fruit. Is it delicious in a croissant? No matter how you choose to enjoy it, I guarantee you’ll love it!

What should I serve it with?

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many things. For a light lunch, try serving it over a bed of crisp lettuce with a side of sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. A simple vinaigrette dressing complements the tanginess of the yogurt perfectly. If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, spread it on whole-wheat bread or croissants with a slice of tomato and lettuce. A side of potato chips or a small salad completes the meal. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a bowl of soup. Tomato soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, or even a creamy vegetable soup are all great options. I also love to serve it with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or melon. The sweetness of the fruit balances out the savory flavors of the chicken salad. If you’re serving for a brunch party consider using mini croissants, or sliced baguettes.

How do I make a Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad?

Want to take your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough, which will negatively impact the texture of your salad. Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s cooked through, but not overdone. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, make sure it’s not dried out.
Finely Chop the Vegetables: The smaller the pieces of celery and red onion, the better the salad texture will be. You want them to add crunch without overpowering the other flavors. I use a sharp knife to dice them as finely as possible.
Use Good Quality Greek Yogurt: Not all Greek yogurts are created equal. Look for a brand that is thick and creamy, with a tangy flavor. I prefer plain, non-fat Greek yogurt, but you can use any kind you like.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the chicken salad can make it mushy. Gently stir everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to break up the chicken too much.
Let it Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to your chicken salad, such as chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or fresh herbs. I love to add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Dill is also a great addition!
Make it Ahead: This chicken salad is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.
Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup. If you like it tangier, add a little more lemon juice. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Add some spice: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a slight kick to the salad.
For extra flavor: Toast the pecans or walnuts before adding for more flavor.

I learned these tricks after years of making this. This is a great salad for meal prepping!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

Proper storage is key to keeping your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad fresh and delicious. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this at room temperature for longer than 2 hours, max. Bacteria can grow quickly, and you don’t want to risk food poisoning. If you’re serving it at a picnic or outdoor event, keep it on ice to keep it chilled.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. I’ve found that the flavor actually improves after a day or two, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Freezer Instructions: While you can freeze this chicken salad, I don’t recommend it. The Greek yogurt tends to separate and become watery when thawed, which will change the texture of the salad. If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and try to use it within 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: N/A

What are the most frequently asked questions on

How can I make this gluten free?

What are some good ways to serve it on gluten-free bread or crackers? Is chicken salad gluten free?

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While you can, I don’t recommend it. Greek yogurt is much thicker and tangier than regular yogurt, which is what gives this chicken salad. What are some of the best flavors and textures to try? Why is yogurt so bad for salad?

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

What are some good substitutes for pecans, walnuts or almonds? Just make sure to add them right before serving, so they don’t get soggy.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or mustard powder. What are some good ways to use horseradish for a kick?

Can I use canned chicken?

Is canned chicken good for you? What is the best way to cook chicken?

Final Thoughts

What is your favorite Greek yogurt chicken salad recipe? I hope you give this one a try. What’s a healthy way to enjoy classic dishes? What is your favorite new family favorite and why? If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my kale salad or egg salad recipe. What are some of the best lunch recipes?