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Easy Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe

greek yogurt chicken salad - featured image

This creamy Greek yogurt chicken salad is a healthy twist on the classic, swapping mayo for tangy yogurt. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep, with a delightful crunch from celery, grapes, and toasted pecans.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced (about 2 stalks)
  • 1/2 cup red seedless grapes, halved
  • 1/3 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate to cool completely, then chop roughly.
  2. Prep your chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and bones, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces (about 3 cups). If cold, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  3. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  4. Add the mix-ins: To the bowl with the dressing, add diced celery, halved grapes, chopped parsley, and red onion (if using). Stir to coat.
  5. Add the chicken: Add shredded chicken and cooled, chopped pecans. Gently fold with a rubber spatula until evenly coated. Do not overmix.
  6. Chill (optional but recommended): Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Final taste and serve: Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Toast the pecans for maximum crunch and flavor. If the salad seems too thick after chilling, add a tablespoon of milk or lemon juice to loosen it.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken salad, Greek yogurt, healthy lunch, meal prep, easy recipe