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Easy No-Mayo Chicken Salad Lunchbox Cups

no-mayo chicken salad lunchbox cups - featured image
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A creamy, tangy chicken salad made with Greek yogurt instead of mayo, packed with crunchy apples and toasted almonds. Perfect for lunchboxes, meal prep, or a quick, healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ cup finely diced celery
  • ½ cup finely diced apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
  • ¼ cup slivered or chopped almonds, toasted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: ¼ cup dried cranberries or golden raisins, or a pinch of curry powder

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and shred meat with forks or hands. If using leftover chicken breasts, dice into ½-inch cubes. You should have about 3 cups.
  2. Toast the almonds: Place slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook, shaking frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  4. Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, add shredded chicken, diced celery, diced apple, and cooled toasted almonds. Pour dressing over the top and gently fold until everything is coated. Be careful not to mash the apple.
  5. Season and adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, vinegar, or honey as needed. Fold in fresh parsley.
  6. Assemble the cups: Divide chicken salad evenly among 4-6 small containers. Press down gently. Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
  7. Garnish (optional): Top with extra toasted almonds or fresh parsley before sealing lids.

Notes

For best texture, use full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt. Toasting almonds is non-negotiable for flavor. Dice apple and celery the same size as chicken for consistent bites. Chill before serving to meld flavors. To prevent apple browning, toss diced apple in a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 4 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken salad, no mayo, Greek yogurt, lunchbox, meal prep, healthy, easy, apple, almonds

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/easy-no-mayo-chicken-salad-lunchbox-cups/