Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Name: Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 1/2 cup red grapes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Balance Meals

I love making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad because it’s a fresh, wholesome meal that keeps well in the fridge for days. The creaminess of Greek yogurt combined with tender chicken and vibrant veggies creates a salad that is not only satisfying but also packed with protein. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or weekend picnic outings. I find that it’s incredibly easy to customize with whatever veggies I have on hand, which makes it a go-to recipe for me.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-03-05T08:01:53.441Z

When I first tried Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, I was surprised at how refreshing it tasted, with a hint of tang from the yogurt that perfectly balanced the rich chicken. I usually grill the chicken for just the right amount of char, locking in the juices and enhancing the overall flavor. Adding fresh herbs like dill elevates the taste, turning this simple salad into a gourmet delight.

This recipe has become a staple in our household. I love how quickly it comes together, and it’s nutritious enough to feel good about. A tip I swear by is to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving; it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and protein-packed Greek yogurt adds a healthy twist
Fresh and vibrant flavors from customizable vegetables
Quick prep makes it a perfect option for busy days

Mastering the Chicken

For the base of this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, using cooked chicken is essential. You can utilize leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach chicken breasts for a fresher option. When poaching, simmer the chicken in lightly salted water for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then allow it to cool before shredding. The key is to ensure the chicken is tender, which provides a satisfying texture when mixed with the yogurt and veggies.

Shredding the chicken properly can make a significant difference in the final dish. I recommend using two forks to pull the meat apart, which gives you uniform pieces. This ensures even coating with the Greek yogurt and harmonious bites with veggies. In the end, ensure that the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for the best texture in every mouthful.

A Flavorful Medley

The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with the vegetables. For example, diced bell peppers or cucumbers would add a refreshing crunch, while chopped herbs like parsley or mint could enhance the flavors further. Keep in mind that adding watery veggies, like cucumbers, may require you to adjust the amount of Greek yogurt to prevent the salad from becoming too runny.

The inclusion of fresh dill is particularly noteworthy as it brightens the entire dish. If you're not a fan of dill, basil or tarragon can make a lovely substitution. Just remember to balance the amount as different herbs have varying intensities. By customizing the veggies and herbs, you can create a salad that reflects your taste and remains delightful with each serving over the days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

Ingredients

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

Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure each bite is flavorful!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad:

Prepare the Chicken

Shred the cooked chicken and place it in a mixing bowl.

Combine Ingredients

Add Greek yogurt, diced celery, red grapes, red onion, chopped walnuts, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl.

Mix Thoroughly

Gently mix all ingredients until well combined, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the mixture and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add in your favorites! Avocado or cucumber also make great additions.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep as it stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. I often prepare a big batch on Sunday for easy lunches throughout the week. To serve, pair it with whole-grain bread for a sandwich, or use lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing option that makes for a great low-carb meal.

If you want to elevate the dish, consider serving it atop a bed of spinach or arugula. The greens add a peppery flavor that complements the creaminess of the salad. For a bit of crunch, throw in some whole-grain crackers or pita chips on the side, which also work well for scooping up the salad. This creates a well-rounded meal that's easy to enjoy on the go!

Make-Ahead and Variations

This dish is particularly suited for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the salad in advance and allow the flavors to meld together in the fridge for a couple of hours or overnight. Just be cautious of adding any ingredients that may wilt or lose crunch over time, like nuts, until serving to maintain their texture.

For a twist on the traditional flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, or sprinkle in some curry powder for a unique flavor. You can also include additional protein sources, such as chickpeas or black beans, to make it even heartier. Each variation adds its own characteristic, keeping the dish exciting with every bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked?

Yes, canned chicken works well for this recipe, just be sure to drain it properly!

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute shredded chicken with chickpeas and Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.

→ What is the best way to serve this salad?

It’s great on its own, in a wrap, or as a sandwich filling!