Macro-Friendly Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad (High Protein)

Prepare to indulge in the delicious combination of creamy Greek yogurt, succulent chicken, and the unexpected crunch of celery, perfectly complemented by the burst of sweetness from juicy red grapes. This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad recipe is packed with so much flavor without being heavy! 

Compared to traditional chicken salad, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad offers a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. While traditional chicken salad typically relies on mayonnaise or heavy dressings, this recipe opts for Greek yogurt as the creamy base, providing a lighter and healthier alternative. The use of Greek yogurt not only adds a tangy and creamy texture but also boosts the protein content of the salad. Additionally, the combination of crunchy celery, sweet red grapes, toasted almond slivers, and zesty green onions adds a delightful medley of textures and flavors that beautifully complement the tender chicken. 

Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a flavorful dish to impress guests at a gathering, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad has it all. Its creamy and crunchy textures, unexpected sweetness, and nutritional benefits make it a recipe that readers are bound to fall in love with. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the delightful combination of flavors in this irresistible salad!

3 Reasons Why You Will Love This Macro-Friendly Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor and Texture: This salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The tender chicken, crisp celery, sweet red grapes, crunchy almond slivers, and zesty green onions create a delicious blend of textures and taste. Each bite is a perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and freshness. 
2. Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals or those who prefer quick and hassle-free meals. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking for a fuss-free option, this recipe's simplicity ensures a stress-free and enjoyable cooking experience.
3. Healthier Option: Unlike traditional chicken salad recipes that rely on heavy mayonnaise-based dressings, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad offers a healthier alternative. By using Greek yogurt as the creamy base, you reduce the fat content without compromising on flavor or texture. Greek yogurt is packed with protein and offers a tangy and creamy element that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

You may also love our macro-friendly macaroni salad with Greek yogurt recipe!

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: Precooked chicken breast makes the perfect protein base for the salad. I like using Tyson grilled chicken breast strips and cut into chunks to save on time! 
• Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is also packed with protein and probiotics, making it a healthy and satisfying ingredient. Opt for nonfat, plain yogurt for a creamy taste. 
• Celery: Choose fresh celery stalks for their crispness and distinct flavor. Celery brings a satisfying crunch to the salad, adding a refreshing and slightly earthy taste.
• Red Grapes: Look for plump and juicy red grapes to balance the flavors of the salad with their natural sweetness. I like using red grapes, but green works well too! 
• Almond Slivers: Toasted almond slivers provide a delightful nutty crunch and add an extra layer of texture to the salad. 
• Green Onions: These help to add a mild onion flavor and a vibrant pop of color to the salad.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey brings a natural sweetness to the dressing and helps with balancing the flavors. 
• Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings bring out the flavors of the ingredients, adding depth and balance to the salad.

Kitchen Tools Required

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl
• Mixing spoon or whisk for dressing
• Salad serving bowl or plate

How to Make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk or stir well until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
2. Add the diced cooked chicken, celery, red grapes, almond slivers, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper, if needed.
4. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Once chilled, give the salad a final gentle toss before serving.
6. Serve the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad on a bed of fresh greens, as a sandwich filling, or with whole grain bread or crackers.

Swaps or Alternatives

Here are some swaps that you can make based on preferences:

• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, you can substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas, diced tofu, or cooked lentils for a plant-based protein source. Alternatively, you can use grilled or roasted shrimp, diced turkey, or even leftover cooked salmon as alternatives to chicken.
• Yogurt Options: While Greek yogurt is traditionally used in this recipe, you can choose a non-dairy yogurt alternative such as coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, or soy yogurt if you're lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy or prefer to omit almonds, you can replace them with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or toasted pine nuts for a similar crunch and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure that the Greek yogurt and any other condiments you use are certified gluten-free. Additionally, serve the salad with gluten-free bread, crackers, or on a bed of greens.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can add fresh basil, cilantro, or mint leaves for a burst of herbaceous flavor. Spices like paprika, cumin, or curry powder can also add an interesting twist to the dressing.

Quick Tip(s)

Here are quick tips to keep in mind while making the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

• Let the Salad Chill for Optimal Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving is highly recommended. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, and it also helps the salad to develop a better texture. The chilling process allows the ingredients to marry, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious salad.
• Customization and Variation: Feel free to customize the salad to your liking by incorporating additional ingredients or making substitutions. For example, you can add diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor. 

By customizing the salad to suit your preferences and taking advantage of the make-ahead option, you can adapt the recipe to your needs and make mealtime more convenient and enjoyable. Get creative with your ingredients and plan ahead to ensure a satisfying and delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad experience.

FAQ’s

Here are some frequently asked questions about Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time. Simply combine all the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld together as it chills, making it even more delicious.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh or pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. If you choose to use frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking or adding it to the salad. Thoroughly cook the chicken to the proper internal temperature to ensure it's safe to eat.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another type of yogurt?

Absolutely! If you're lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy option, you can substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, soy yogurt, or any other yogurt alternative that suits your dietary needs. Just note that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Can I omit the almonds for a nut-free version?

Yes, you can omit the almonds if you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use them. Try replacing them with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or toasted pine nuts for a similar crunchy texture.

Can I add additional vegetables or fruits to the salad?

Certainly! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables or fruits to the salad. Diced apples, dried cranberries, cherry tomatoes, or avocado can be great additions to enhance the flavor and texture.

How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the texture and freshness may slightly change over time, so it's best to consume the salad within a few days for optimal taste.

Macros & Nutrition Information

Serving Size: ⅙ of recipe (~1 cup)

Macro Friendly Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Jessie Hulsey

This vibrant and refreshing salad combines tender chicken, crisp celery, sweet red grapes, crunchy almond slivers, and zesty green onions, all tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing with a touch of sweetness. Packed with protein, nutrients, and a burst of flavors, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 265 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Cutting Board
• 1 Knife
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Whisk or fork
• 1 Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 1 Small bowl
• 1 Mixing spoon or whisk for dressing
• 1 Salad serving bowl or plate

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 3 cups chicken breast, diced (Tyson Grilled Chicken Strips)
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
• 2 medium celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup slivered almonds
• 1 cup plain nonfat greek yogurt
• 2 tsp honey
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk or stir well until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
• Add the diced cooked chicken, celery, red grapes, almond slivers, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper, if needed.
• Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Once chilled, give the salad a final gentle toss before serving.
• Serve the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad on a bed of fresh greens, as a sandwich filling, or with whole grain bread or crackers.

Notes

• Feel free to customize this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to suit your preferences. Add additional ingredients like diced apples, dried cranberries, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and variety.
• Nutrition information may vary depending on brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Calories: 265kcalCarbohydrates: 11.4gProtein: 28.7gFat: 10.7g

Keyword high protein, macro friendly

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!