Delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad (No Mayo) Recipe Made Easy

It was one of those lazy summer afternoons when the sun hung low in the sky, and the air was filled with warmth and the sweet scent of blooming flowers. I remember preparing a light lunch for a picnic with friends at our favorite park. My go-to dish was a bright, refreshing Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad that felt both satisfying and guilt-free. No mayo in sight! This chicken salad is made creamy with Greek yogurt instead, giving it a tangy kick that dances on your taste buds. And you know what? It’s the perfect dish for those warm days when you crave something fresh and vibrant without the heaviness of traditional mayonnaise-based salads.

As I stirred the ingredients together, a wave of delicious memories engulfed me—laughter with friends, sunny afternoons, and the joy of sharing good food. That’s what this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad represents for me: heartwarming memories, refreshing flavors, and a great way to soak up summer goodness. And that’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! Whether you’re whipping it up for a backyard get-together, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a light yet filling dish, this salad has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Healthy twist with Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter touch.
• Endlessly customizable—add your favorite veggies, herbs, or spices!
• Great for meal prep, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
• Comforting flavors that remind you of sunny picnics and warm days.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to life:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works great too!)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat for creaminess, or low-fat if you prefer)
• 1/4 cup celery (finely chopped; adds a nice crunch)
• 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped; for a bit of bite)
• 1/2 cup grapes (halved; for a sweet contrast)
• 1/2 apple (diced; Granny Smith or Fuji are my faves for tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but adds another layer of flavor)
• 1-2 teaspoons fresh dill (chopped; or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Note: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts for added crunch or toss in some spinach for extra greens!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep your chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, poach or grill it until it’s cooked through, about 20 minutes, and let it cool before shredding.
2. Combine the base. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken and Greek yogurt. Stir them together gently until the chicken is well coated in the yogurt.
3. Add the crunch! Toss in the finely chopped celery and red onion. This contrast of textures is what makes this salad exciting! Gently mix well until combined.
4. Boost the flavor. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir in the Dijon mustard (if using). This is where the magic happens! Add the fresh dill and give it another good stir. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper!
5. Add the fruits. Fold in the halved grapes and diced apple. This will not only add sweetness but also beautiful colors to your salad!
6. Chill out. For the best flavor, let your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. It gives the ingredients time to meld and develop that lovely taste.

Personal Tip: Be gentle when mixing the salad, so you don’t break down the grapes or apple pieces. You want that delightful pop when you bite into them!

Pro Tips & Variations

This chicken salad is wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ways to mix things up:

• Add some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Swap out the grapes for berries like strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
• Include chopped bell peppers for a burst of color and sweetness.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of curry powder for a unique twist!

Whether you’re keeping it simple or experimenting, feel free to customize this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad with ingredients you love!

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this salad in a couple of different ways, depending on my mood. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Pile it high on a bed of greens for a light lunch. Think arugula or spinach!
• Serve it in a warm whole grain pita for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s like a sandwich, but even better!
• Enjoy it as a side dish next to grilled chicken or salmon during summer barbecues.
• Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for the ultimate summer vibe.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish holds its own in flavor and creates a feast for the senses!

Storage Tips

Your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken up a bit. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but I recommend enjoying it fresh. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge for a few hours or overnight before serving.

Pro Tip: Avoid freezing any pieces of fruit, as they may become mushy when thawed. Stick to just the chicken and yogurt mixture if you plan to freeze.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chicken salad tastes even better after it sits for a bit and lets the flavors meld together. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. Ideally, try to enjoy it within 3 days for the freshest taste!

Is this chicken salad good for meal prep?

You bet! This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a fantastic meal prep option. Divide it into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It’s a healthy and filling choice that keeps well, too!

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use cottage cheese for a different texture, or try a dairy-free yogurt if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan. Just keep in mind it will alter the taste slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Canned chicken is a great way to save time, and it works perfectly in this salad. Just drain the chicken well before adding it to your mix.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you like a kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce! You could also mix in some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a warm spice that complements the yogurt nicely.

Conclusion

Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. I’d love to hear how you enjoy this salad—whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with your own twists. So go ahead, whip it up, and feel free to leave a comment about your experience or any variations you tried. Happy cooking, my friend!