When it comes to making a chicken salad that’s both satisfying and nutritious, I wanted to create something that didn’t just taste amazing but also offered a healthier alternative to the traditional recipe. That’s when I decided to swap out most of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. The result? A chicken salad that’s creamy, flavorful, and much lighter than the classic version. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or simply with some crackers, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why I Chose Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative to mayonnaise for several reasons. Not only is it lower in calories and fat, but it also adds a wonderful tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Plus, it’s packed with protein, which makes this chicken salad even more filling and nutritious.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Cooked Chicken Breast: The star of the dish. I like to finely shred or mash it to get a smooth consistency that blends well with the dressing.
- Greek Yogurt: The main component of the dressing, offering creaminess without the extra calories.
- Mayonnaise: I use just a small amount to retain that classic chicken salad taste we all love.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a bit of sharpness and depth to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of freshness that brightens up the entire dish.
- Celery & Red Onion: These veggies provide a nice crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: Brings a touch of herbaceousness and color to the salad.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
- Optional Add-ins: While I didn’t use apples or nuts this time, feel free to add them if you prefer a bit of sweetness or extra crunch.
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by finely shredding or mashing your cooked chicken breast. This will ensure that the chicken salad has a consistent texture.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until everything is well-coated.
- Season & Chill: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want, you can also mix in chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve & Enjoy: This chicken salad is perfect on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or with your favorite crackers.
Ingredients
Method
- Start by finely shredding the cooked chicken breast. If you prefer a smoother texture, use a fork to mash the chicken until it reaches your desired consistency.
- In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add the finely shredded or mashed chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season and add crunch (Optional): Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, mix in the chopped walnuts or almonds for a bit of extra crunch.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a whole grain wrap, or with your favorite healthy crackers
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? A: I recommend sticking with Greek yogurt because it’s thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, which helps maintain the consistency of the salad. Regular yogurt might make the dressing too runny.
Q: How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge? A: Stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad should last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast? A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a bit of extra flavor to the salad.
Q: What can I substitute for celery or red onion? A: If you’re not a fan of celery, you could use chopped cucumber or bell pepper for crunch. For red onion, try green onions or shallots.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Salad
- Make It Your Own: This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like dried cranberries, chopped grapes, or even a little bit of curry powder for a unique twist.
- Texture Matters: For a chunkier salad, leave the chicken in larger pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash the chicken until it’s almost like a paste.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes really helps the flavors come together, so don’t skip this step!
This healthier chicken salad with Greek yogurt is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dish without the guilt. It’s light, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
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