Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Name: Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness Table Creations

I absolutely love making this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad for a quick and healthy meal. The blend of savory chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy Greek yogurt creates a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet is light on calories. It's perfect for lunch or as a refreshing dinner option. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it in a wrap, atop a bed of greens, or even as a dip for veggies. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:45:46.298Z

When I first made this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, I wanted something light yet fulfilling. Using Greek yogurt was a game-changer, allowing me to skip heavy mayo while keeping it creamy. I played around with the seasoning to enhance the flavors, adding a touch of dill and lemon juice for brightness. Trust me, this dish tastes even better the next day!

One tip I've found is to let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or just looking for an easy weekday meal, this chicken salad stands out with freshness and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture with the perfect blend of spices
Packed with protein and fresh ingredients
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days

Optimizing Your Chicken Salad

To achieve the perfect texture for your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, using shredded chicken is essential. It allows the yogurt and seasoning to coat every piece evenly, enhancing the overall flavor. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; just ensure to remove the skin and shred it quickly for a tender, juicy result. If you prefer a more traditional method, poach boneless chicken breasts in seasoned water for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then shred upon cooling.

The freshness of your ingredients plays a significant role in the final taste. Crisp, vibrant celery and cucumber not only add crunch but also bring moisture to the salad, balancing the creaminess of the Greek yogurt. I recommend selecting cucumbers with firm skins to avoid excess water content, which can dilute the dressing. Incorporating freshly chopped herbs like dill not only enhances flavor but adds an aromatic quality, making each bite an enjoyable experience.

Customizing for Your Taste

This salad is highly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices based on your preferences. If dill isn’t your favorite, parsley or even chives can be great substitutes that still complement the chicken beautifully. You could also add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, or mix in some paprika for depth. Each addition will create a unique twist while keeping the salad refreshing.

To serve your chicken salad in style, consider making lettuce wraps or pita pockets, which create a fun and healthy alternative to traditional sandwiches. If you're looking to lighten up the dish more, swap out half of the Greek yogurt with a squeeze of avocado for a creamy texture without added calories. This approach not only enhances the taste but also adds healthy fats to your meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

Ingredients

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

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to start making this salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, cucumber, red onion, dill, and lemon juice. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Mix again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad as a healthy lunch or snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients, such as diced apples for sweetness or chopped nuts for crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is that it can be made ahead of time. If you prepare it early in the day or even the night before, the flavors have an opportunity to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. I find that letting it chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the dish significantly, but if you can wait a few hours, it's even better. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly to retain its freshness.

When storing leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're planning to freeze any portions, consider freezing the chicken on its own before mixing with the yogurt and veggies. This way, you can easily thaw and assemble a fresh salad later, ensuring the ingredients maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful lunch or light dinner, serve this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad atop a bed of mixed greens. The contrast of flavors and textures will heighten your dining experience. If you're entertaining, consider using small scoops of the salad as a dip alongside an array of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes, creating a visually appealing platter.

Another fun serving idea is to turn this salad into a wrap. Use whole-grain or spinach tortillas, spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad inside, and roll them up tightly. You can slice them into pinwheels for a creative party snack or just enjoy them as a quick lunch. This adaptability makes the salad not only delicious but also a fantastic option for various occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt is a healthier option that provides creaminess without the extra calories.

→ How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

The salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier and adds great flavor.

→ What can I serve with this chicken salad?

It pairs perfectly with whole-grain crackers, pita bread, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.