This delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a burst of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine tender chicken combined with creamy yogurt, crunchy veggies, and a sprinkle of herbs—sounds heavenly, right? Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic or just need a quick lunch that won’t leave you in a food coma, this salad has you covered.
I remember the first time I attempted this dish; my family was shocked when I declared it was “guilt-free.” They huddled around the table, skeptical yet intrigued. But after one bite, their faces transformed from doubt to delight. Now it’s our go-to recipe for gatherings—everyone begs for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This wonderful Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is super easy to prepare and packed with flavor
- You can customize it with your favorite ingredients
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- It’s perfect for picnics but versatile enough for meal prep throughout the week
My sister once tried making this salad for her book club dinner—it turned into an impromptu cooking class as everyone gathered around her chopping board!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re feeding; they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Greek Yogurt: Choose plain unsweetened yogurt for a creamy texture without added sugars; it’s the star of the show!
- Celery Stalks: Fresh celery adds crunch; look for bright green ones without any blemishes.
- Red Onion: Dice finely for a mild yet flavorful kick; soak in water briefly if you prefer less sharpness.
- Fresh Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish; use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds zing; balance is key!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in your salad.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Chicken: Start by boiling chicken breasts in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Let them cool before shredding or dicing.
Prepare the Veggies: While your chicken cools, chop celery and red onion finely. Their crunch will add delightful texture to your salad.
Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth—this will be your creamy dressing.
Add Ingredients Together: Toss shredded chicken into the yogurt mixture along with celery and onion. Mix until everything is evenly coated in that luscious yogurt dressing.
Finish with Herbs: Sprinkle in fresh dill or parsley last—this adds freshness! Give it one final stir to incorporate all those beautiful flavors.
Now that you’ve made this scrumptious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, it’s time to serve! Pair it with some whole-grain bread or over greens for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something deliciously healthy!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek yogurt chicken salad is a game-changer for meal prep
- It’s creamy, zesty, and packed with nutrients
- Plus, you can easily customize it with whatever veggies or spices are lying around
- Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by poaching the chicken for juiciness, then chop while mixing the yogurt, herbs, and spices together to ensure all flavors meld perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the veggies or add nuts and seeds for crunch. Experimenting with different spices can elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Greek yogurt chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold; no reheating needed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your chicken flavorful, brine it briefly before cooking
- Always taste as you mix; adjust seasonings according to your preference
- Fresh herbs can transform this dish into a gourmet experience with minimal effort
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first dinner party where everyone raved about my Greek yogurt chicken salad—a dish that truly impressed my friends and made me feel like a culinary genius.
FAQ
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Regular yogurt works but may result in a thinner consistency.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prepping and easy lunches throughout the week.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a creamy and nutritious dish bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings, it’s a healthy choice that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup plain unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook chicken breasts in salted boiling water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Allow to cool before shredding or dicing.
- While the chicken cools, chop the celery and red onion.
- In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add shredded chicken, celery, and onion to the yogurt dressing; mix until well combined.
- Stir in fresh herbs for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Notes
- For added crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts or seeds.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for unique flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 115mg