This chicken salad with Greek yogurt offers a refreshing twist on a traditional classic. Instead of using heavy mayonnaise, this version incorporates plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor that still delivers creamy satisfaction. Combined with crunchy almonds, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and tender shredded chicken, this salad strikes a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste, making it an ideal choice for lunch, light dinners, or weekly meal prep. Whether served in a sandwich, a lettuce wrap, or as a standalone salad, this dish proves that nutritious food can still be incredibly satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

• 1 ¼ cups plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 cup diced celery

• 1 cup seedless grapes, quartered

• ½ cup sliced green onions

• ½ cup sliced almonds

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

• In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, grapes, celery, green onions, and almonds.

• In a separate bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

• Pour the yogurt dressing into the chicken mixture and stir everything together until evenly coated.

• For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Serve chilled as a sandwich filling, in wraps, or over greens.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 295 kcal per serving

• Protein: Around 29g

• Total Fat: 14g

• Saturated Fat: 2g

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Sugar: 9g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 370mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

One of the standout qualities of this chicken salad recipe is its ability to transform a classic dish into something healthier and more modern without compromising taste. By replacing mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, the salad gains a creamy texture that’s both light and tangy. This change not only cuts down on calories and saturated fat but also boosts the protein content and includes probiotics, which aid in digestion and promote gut health.

Another reason this dish shines is the thoughtful combination of textures and flavors. Juicy, sweet grapes contrast beautifully with the crunchy celery and almonds, while the Dijon mustard and lemon juice add a subtle zing that enhances the entire flavor profile. The ingredients aren’t just thrown together—they’re chosen to complement and elevate each other.

Lastly, the simplicity and versatility of this recipe make it a go-to option for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying, and nutritious meal. It’s beginner-friendly and requires no fancy cooking skills. With just a bit of chopping and mixing, you can have a delicious salad ready to go. Whether you’re preparing for a week of lunches or hosting a casual brunch, this salad adapts well to various occasions and dietary preferences.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this chicken salad has been chosen not just for taste but also for its health benefits. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and probiotics. It gives the salad a creamy richness without the added fat that typically comes from mayonnaise. Its probiotic content supports healthy digestion and a strong immune system.

Chicken, the core of this dish, is a lean source of protein, providing essential amino acids needed for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance. When cooked and shredded, chicken also has a tender texture that makes the salad hearty and satisfying.

The grapes add a natural sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the tangy yogurt and savory chicken. Beyond flavor, grapes are a source of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and hydration due to their high water content.

Celery brings in a refreshing crunch and is low in calories while being high in water and fiber. It also contributes to digestive health and adds volume to the salad without increasing calorie count.

Green onions offer a subtle bite and brightness that cuts through the richness of the yogurt. They also contain small amounts of beneficial antioxidants and sulfur compounds that promote cardiovascular health.

Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch. They are also a rich source of vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. Incorporating nuts into your meals can improve satiety and support heart health.

Lemon juice and Dijon mustard not only bring acidity and zest to the dressing but also offer their own nutritional perks. Lemon juice provides vitamin C and supports collagen production, while Dijon mustard adds depth of flavor with very few calories.

Cooking Tips

For the most flavorful result, it’s best to use rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked chicken breasts that have been allowed to cool before shredding. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and easy to mix into the salad. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor.

To improve the texture of the salad, be sure to chop all the ingredients to a uniform size. This makes the salad easier to eat and helps evenly distribute flavors. If you’re serving this as a sandwich or wrap filling, consider chopping the chicken into smaller pieces for a smoother consistency.

Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour allows the flavors to meld. This resting period can significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish. It’s an especially helpful step if you’re preparing the salad in advance for meal prep.

If the dressing seems too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of water or an additional splash of lemon juice. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as you don’t want the dressing to become watery.

Customize the flavor to your liking. Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an herbaceous twist, or mix in diced apples or cranberries for a fall-inspired variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Greek yogurt chicken salad is incredibly versatile, lending itself to various serving options. For a classic presentation, scoop the salad onto whole grain or sourdough bread with leafy greens for a hearty sandwich. It also works beautifully in wraps—use tortillas, pita bread, or flatbreads for a portable and satisfying meal.

If you’re looking to keep things low-carb or gluten-free, serve the chicken salad in crisp lettuce cups made from romaine or butter lettuce. This fresh, crunchy alternative is perfect for warm days and offers a refreshing bite.

Another great way to enjoy this salad is by serving it over a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach. Add cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots for a more elaborate salad bowl that’s both colorful and nutritious.

For entertaining or snacking, use this chicken salad as a dip. Serve it with whole grain crackers, sliced cucumbers, or bell pepper strips. It’s a unique and healthy alternative to traditional dips.

For a visually appealing option, scoop the salad into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also adds extra nutrients and freshness.

Conclusion

Greek yogurt chicken salad is a brilliant reinvention of a familiar favorite. By replacing mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, it brings a lighter, more nutritious approach to the traditional recipe while maintaining the creaminess and flavor that makes chicken salad so beloved. The combination of ingredients provides a balanced mix of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy elements that come together harmoniously in every bite.

Its health-conscious ingredient list and versatility in serving options make it a standout choice for those looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday lunch or putting together a platter for guests, this chicken salad delivers in both taste and nutrition. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but