Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Balanced and Simple Meal

Looking for a tasty and healthy meal idea? My Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is perfect! Made with shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy Greek yogurt, this dish is both balanced and simple. You can whip it up easily for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it offers endless flavor variations and can fit into any diet. Let’s dive in and create a delightful salad that you’ll want to enjoy over and over!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

– 1/2 cup celery, finely diced

– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved

– 1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced

– 1/4 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– Crisp lettuce leaves for serving

When I prepare Greek yogurt chicken salad, I focus on fresh and simple ingredients. Each component adds flavor and texture.

I start with cooked chicken breast, shredded into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to enjoy. The plain Greek yogurt serves as a creamy base. It is healthy and rich in protein.

Next, I add finely diced celery for a satisfying crunch. The red grapes, halved, bring sweetness to the dish. Their juicy pop balances the savory notes of the chicken.

For a touch of brightness, I slice green onions thinly. Their mild flavor enhances the salad without overpowering it. The walnuts add a nice crunch and a nutty taste.

To make the dressing, I combine Dijon mustard, honey, and fresh lemon juice. These ingredients work together to create a tangy and sweet sauce. Finally, I season with salt and black pepper.

I serve this salad on crisp lettuce leaves. They provide a fresh and crunchy base. You can find the full recipe above to make your own version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Step 1: Combine chicken and vegetables

In a large bowl, add 2 cups of shredded chicken. Then, toss in 1/2 cup of finely diced celery, 1/2 cup of halved red grapes, 1/4 cup of thinly sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts. Mix gently to combine these ingredients well.

– Step 2: Whisk together the dressing

In a separate bowl, take 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth.

– Step 3: Mix the ingredients

Pour the yogurt dressing over the chicken mixture. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together. Make sure all parts are coated with the creamy dressing.

– Step 4: Refrigerate for flavor development

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend and grow richer.

– Step 5: Serve on lettuce leaves

When you are ready to eat, take crisp lettuce leaves and arrange them on a plate. Spoon the creamy chicken salad onto each leaf. For extra flair, sprinkle some chopped walnuts and whole grape halves on top.

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is not just easy to make; it’s a balanced meal packed with flavor. You can find the full recipe [here](#).

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

– Use rotisserie chicken for convenience: It saves time and adds flavor. You can buy it pre-cooked and just shred it. Rotisserie chicken is juicy and tender, making it a great base for this dish.

– Season to taste with herbs and spices: Don’t hold back here. Add salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs. Dill or parsley can give it a fresh lift. The right herbs make a big difference in flavor.

– Allow chilling time for flavor enhancement: After mixing, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully. The wait is worth it!

Presentation Suggestions

– Add walnuts and grapes for garnish: A sprinkle of walnuts adds crunch. Halved grapes bring a burst of sweetness. This not only looks good but adds more taste too.

– Serve with whole-grain bread or crackers: Pairing your salad with whole-grain bread or crackers makes it more filling. It also gives a nice texture contrast to the creamy salad. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Variations

Flavorful Alternatives

You can easily change up this Greek yogurt chicken salad to fit your taste. Try swapping grapes for apples or dried cranberries. Apples add a crisp bite, while cranberries bring sweetness. Both options brighten the dish. You can also incorporate herbs like dill or parsley. Fresh herbs add a nice touch and a burst of flavor. Another fun option is using different nuts. Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts. They change the texture and add their unique taste.

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re looking for dairy-free options, use non-dairy yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. This keeps the creaminess while meeting dietary needs. To reduce calories, opt for low-fat yogurt. This still gives you that creamy texture without extra fat. These easy swaps make the salad more flexible for everyone.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To store your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, follow these steps:

– First, make sure the salad is cool.

– Next, choose an airtight container to keep it fresh.

– You can use glass or plastic containers. Both work well.

– Fill the container but leave some space at the top. This helps prevent spills.

– Seal the lid tightly to keep air out.

Shelf Life

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge.

To know if it’s time to toss it, look for these signs:

– Check for any off smell. It should smell fresh and creamy.

– Look for changes in color or texture. If it seems slimy, throw it away.

– If you see mold, do not eat it. Discard it immediately.

Following these tips will help keep your meal safe and delicious. Enjoy your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad for days!

FAQs

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream or plain yogurt as a substitute for Greek yogurt. They both add creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt. It has a nice texture and flavor.

How do I make a low-carb version of chicken salad?

To make a low-carb version, skip the grapes and use diced cucumbers instead. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers. This keeps it fresh and crunchy while lowering the carbs.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned chicken. It saves time and is easy to use. Just drain the chicken and shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.

How do I enhance the flavor of Greek yogurt chicken salad?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like dill or basil. A splash of hot sauce can also give it a kick. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper! For more details, you can check the Full Recipe.

This Greek yogurt chicken salad is easy to make and tasty. You combine chicken, yogurt, and veggies for a light dish. Remember to chill it for more flavor. Use rotisserie chicken for a quick meal or add different fruits and nuts. Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Try this recipe next time you need a delicious meal. You’ll love how simple it is!

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Indulge in this Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Delight that's perfect for a light lunch or a fresh dinner option. With juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes, it's a flavor explosion in every bite. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing adds a rich touch without the guilt. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is both simple and delicious. Click to explore full instructions and elevate your meal with this delightful salad!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cup celery, finely diced

1/2 cup red grapes, halved

1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Crisp lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions

 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken breast, finely diced celery, halved red grapes, sliced green onions, and coarsely chopped walnuts. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well integrated.

Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the chicken mixture.

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the chicken mixture with the dressing until all components are thoroughly coated.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry and develop richness.

When you’re ready to serve, arrange individual lettuce leaves on a platter or each plate. Spoon the creamy chicken salad generously onto the leaves for a refreshing presentation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts and a couple of whole grape halves on top of each serving for visual appeal.