Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

This refreshing Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad offers a delightful twist on the classic mayo-based version, transforming it into a protein-packed, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The creamy Greek yogurt creates a luxurious base with a pleasant tanginess that complements the tender chicken perfectly. Unlike traditional chicken salad recipes that rely heavily on mayonnaise, this healthier alternative cuts down on unhealthy fats while doubling down on protein content, making it an excellent option for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

The beauty of this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt lies in its versatility and balance of flavors. Crisp celery provides a satisfying crunch, while sweet grapes add bursts of natural sweetness that contrast beautifully with the savory chicken.
The addition of toasted walnuts contributes a nutty depth and additional texture, creating a multi-dimensional eating experience. Fresh dill and lemon juice brighten the entire dish with their aromatic qualities, while a touch of Dijon mustard adds complexity without overpowering the other ingredients.
What makes this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt particularly special is the perfect ratio of yogurt to other ingredients, ensuring every bite is creamy without being soupy. The Greek yogurt serves as both a binding agent and flavor enhancer, its natural tanginess eliminating the need for excessive seasonings.
This Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt works beautifully as a sandwich filling, a topping for fresh greens, or simply enjoyed on its own. It’s meal prep-friendly, staying fresh in the refrigerator for several days, which makes it an excellent option for busy weekday lunches or quick dinners.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more protein into your diet or simply seeking a lighter alternative to traditional chicken salad, this Greek yogurt version delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Timing
π Number of Servings: 4
β³ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
π₯ Cooking Time: 25 minutes (for chicken)
π₯’ Ingredients :
β 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 2 medium breasts)
β 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt (choose whole milk or 2% for added creaminess and protein).
β 2 celery stalks, finely diced
β 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
β 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
β 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
β 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
β 1 tablespoon lemon juice
β 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
β 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
β 1/2 teaspoon salt
β 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
β Optional: 1 tablespoon honey (if you prefer a touch of sweetness)
π¨βπ³ Instructions :

- Cook the chicken (if not using pre-cooked chicken): Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a preheated 375Β°F oven for about 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165Β°F. Let cool completely before dicing or shredding.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Toast the walnuts: Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool before chopping.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooled diced chicken, celery, grapes, toasted walnuts, red onion, and dill to the yogurt mixture.
- Mix thoroughly: Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated with the yogurt dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill before serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Enjoy on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich on whole grain bread, or with whole wheat crackers.
π‘ TIPS :
- Yogurt ratio: The ideal ratio is approximately 1 cup Greek yogurt to 2 cups chicken. Adjust based on your preference for creaminess.
- Protein boost: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Make-ahead friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
- Texture variation: For different textures, try using rotisserie chicken pulled into larger pieces.
- Lower fat option: Use 0% fat Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie content further.
- Fresh herbs: Don’t skip the fresh dill β it makes a significant difference compared to dried.
πNutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 275
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 29g
β Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt FAQ :
- Can I substitute regular yogurt for Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt is recommended for its rich texture and higher protein levels. If you choose regular yogurt, strain it with cheesecloth beforehand to reduce excess moisture and achieve a similar thickness. - How long does Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad stay fresh in the refrigerator? If kept in an airtight container, it will maintain its freshness in the refrigerator for up to 3β4 days.
- What’s the ideal ratio of Greek yogurt to chicken? The recommended ratio is 1 cup Greek yogurt to 2 cups chicken, but you can adjust based on your preference for creaminess.
- Can I freeze this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt? Freezing is not recommended as the yogurt may separate and the vegetables will lose their crispness upon thawing.
- What can I substitute for grapes? Dried cranberries, chopped apples, or diced mango make excellent substitutions for grapes.
- How can I make this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt dairy-free? Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative made from coconut, almond, or soy, but ensure it’s unsweetened and thick.
- What’s the best bread to serve this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt on? Whole grain bread, croissants, or pita bread all work wonderfully with this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt.
- Can I add other vegetables to this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt? Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumber make great additions.
- Is this Greek Chicken Salad High Ratio Yogurt keto-friendly? It can be adapted for keto by using full-fat Greek yogurt and omitting the grapes and honey.
- How can I add more flavor if I find it too bland? Try incorporating fresh herbs like tarragon or parsley, a dash of hot sauce, or curry powder for a different flavor profile.
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