Light and Flavorful Healthy Chicken Salad
This chicken salad skips the mayo and uses Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs to create a creamy, tangy dressing. Mixed with tender chicken breast and crisp veggies, it’s ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on a bed of greens.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
For the Salad Base:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or skyr for extra protein)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1/4 red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
1/4 cup halved grapes or diced apple
1 tbsp capers or chopped pickles
1/2 avocado, diced (add just before serving)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then dice or shred.
Mix the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
Combine:
Add the cooked chicken, celery, onion, and herbs to the bowl. Stir until well coated.
Fold in optional extras like grapes, nuts, or pickles if using.
Chill or Serve:
Chill in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold.
Serving Ideas
In lettuce cups or whole grain wraps
On toasted sourdough or multigrain bread
Over a bed of arugula or spinach
Stuffed into halved avocados or tomatoes
Tips
Shortcut: Use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken.
Make it dairy-free: Use mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt.
Boost the crunch: Add chopped cucumber or shredded carrots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Up to 3 days in the fridge, stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Not recommended—yogurt-based dressings can separate when thawed.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, drain it well and season it for more flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 5g
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 1g