If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and healthy twist on the classic chicken salad, this Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is exactly what you need. Combining tender shredded chicken with creamy Greek yogurt and vibrant veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion, this recipe offers the perfect balance of protein and freshness. It’s incredibly simple to make, versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or just a light meal on its own, and packed with bright lemon and herb flavors. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick lunch idea, this salad will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad stands out because it swaps out traditional mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, which means you get a creamy, tangy texture without the heaviness or extra fat. Greek yogurt also boosts the protein content, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious. The addition of fresh dill and lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that elevates every bite.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity and flexibility. You only need a handful of common ingredients, and it comes together in minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken from the store. For those who enjoy Mediterranean flavors, this chicken salad offers a fresh take that pairs wonderfully with pita bread or a crisp green salad.

If you want to explore more recipes that highlight wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation, you might enjoy trying a Mediterranean Red Kidney Bean Salad alongside this chicken salad for a colorful and protein-packed meal.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup celery, diced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with shredded cooked chicken. You can use leftover chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Make sure the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces to ensure even mixing and easy eating.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Dice the cucumber, tomatoes, celery, and finely chop the red onion. These fresh veggies add crunch and moisture, balancing the creamy texture of the yogurt.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a smooth and tangy dressing.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken and chopped vegetables into the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled on its own, with whole grain bread, or stuffed into pita pockets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using watery cucumbers: If your cucumber is too watery, it can dilute the salad. To prevent this, deseed the cucumber or pat the diced pieces dry before adding.
Overmixing the salad: Gently fold the ingredients together rather than stirring vigorously to keep the chicken pieces intact and maintain texture.
Skipping the chill time: Serving immediately can be tasty, but chilling allows the flavors to fully develop.
Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking for the best balance.

Variations and Customizations

Add nuts or seeds: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch.
Include fruit: For a touch of sweetness, add diced apples or grapes.
Use fresh herbs: Swap dill for parsley, basil, or mint depending on your preference.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
Make it a wrap: Use the chicken salad as a filling for whole wheat wraps or lettuce cups.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Before serving leftover salad, give it a quick stir and add a little extra lemon juice or yogurt if it seems dry. Avoid freezing as the yogurt can separate and the texture may change.

FAQ

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While you can substitute regular yogurt, Greek yogurt’s thicker consistency makes the salad creamier and more satisfying. If using regular yogurt, consider straining it to remove excess liquid.

Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Just keep it chilled and consume within 3 days for freshness.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here. You want the chicken shredded into bite-sized pieces, so any tender cooked chicken will do.

Can I add other vegetables to this chicken salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even sweet corn for extra texture and flavor. Just keep the overall balance so the salad stays light and fresh.

Conclusion

This Easy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a fantastic, wholesome option for lunch, a light dinner, or even a picnic. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing combined with fresh veggies and tender chicken creates a refreshing yet satisfying dish that you can customize to your taste. Whether served in a sandwich, with crackers, or on its own, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy protein-packed meal without fuss. Give it a try and discover how simple it is to elevate your chicken salad game with this bright and flavorful recipe.

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