There’s something so comforting about a classic chicken salad, isn’t there? I mean, it’s the kind of dish that can make any day feel a bit sunnier, whether you’re packing it for a picnic or whipping it up for a light lunch at home. Now, let me tell you, this Greek Yogurt and Mayo Chicken Salad is my go-to recipe when I want something fresh, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
I first stumbled upon this delightful combination during a summer visit to a friend’s house. She had just made it for a casual lunch, and the moment I took my first bite, I was utterly sold. The sweetness from the grapes contrasts beautifully with the crispness of celery and the creaminess of the Greek yogurt and mayo blend. It’s not just a salad; it’s practically a bowl of sunshine! So, come along, and let me share how you can whip up this fantastic dish in no time!
What’s in Greek Yogurt and Mayo Chicken Salad?
Cooked Chicken: The star of the show, shredded cooked chicken adds protein and substance to our salad. You can roast a chicken or use leftover rotisserie chicken, which is a great time-saver!
Greek Yogurt: This creamy ingredient replaces the bulk of the mayonnaise, providing a tangy flavor while being lower in fat and packed with protein. I like to use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for the best results.
Mayonnaise: While I love using Greek yogurt, a bit of mayonnaise adds richness and creaminess to the mix. I usually reach for a good-quality, organic mayo for the freshest taste.
Grapes: Sweet, juicy grapes (red or green) elevate this salad with a pop of freshness. I always make sure they’re halved to make them easy to eat.
Celery: This crunchy veggie gives a nice texture and freshness. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Red Onion: Just a touch of finely chopped red onion brings a bit of sharpness to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
Fresh Parsley: Don’t skip this one! It offers a lovely herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional, but I love adding it for a little kick. It plays nicely with the creaminess of the other ingredients.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad and brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Ah, the classic duo! They help to really enhance the flavor of everything in the bowl.
Is Greek Yogurt and Mayo Chicken Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is not only delicious, but it also offers some great health benefits. The combination of **Greek yogurt** and **mayonnaise** cuts down on bad fats while keeping the creaminess intact. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and Greek yogurt, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Moreover, the inclusion of **celery** and **grapes** means you’re getting some fiber and antioxidants in your meal, which are fantastic for digestion and overall well-being. Just keep in mind that if you’re watching your sodium intake, the salt can be adjusted to fit your needs. Overall, this salad is a delightful, healthy choice that can fit into a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup grapes, halved (red or green)
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4-6*
How to Make Greek Yogurt and Mayo Chicken Salad?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the **Greek yogurt**, **mayonnaise**, **Dijon mustard** (if using), **lemon juice**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the **shredded chicken** to the bowl and stir until the chicken is fully coated with the dressing.
3. Fold in the **halved grapes**, **diced celery**, **chopped red onion**, and **fresh parsley**. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more **salt**, **pepper**, or **lemon juice** as desired.
5. Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, either on its own, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairing and Fun Variations
Now that you have this scrumptious salad down, let’s take it a step further! You can serve it with toasted bread or in lettuce wraps for a fresh crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in some diced apples for an extra sweetness, or mix in some crunchy walnuts for added texture and healthy fats. And don’t forget about a sprinkle of bacon bits for that flavor explosion!
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Greek Yogurt and Mayo Chicken Salad! It’s perfect for meal prep and gets even tastier after a day in the fridge. I can’t wait for you to try it! Please share your experience and any fun tweaks you make to the recipe. Happy cooking!
