If you’re tired of the same old mayonnaise-laden chicken salads, this Chicken Salad Without Mayo using Greek yogurt is a refreshing twist that everyone will love. Imagine tender, diced chicken complemented by crunchy celery, tangy cranberries, and a creamy dressing that’s light yet filling. Perfect for a quick lunch or a summer picnic, this recipe brings all the flavor without the heaviness. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or casual gatherings with friends.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try this Chicken Salad Without Mayo! It’s not only a healthier alternative to traditional recipes but also packed with protein thanks to the Greek yogurt, which is lower in calories and fat. You’ll find it balances well with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of celery — it’s an excellent choice for meal prep or lunchboxes.
"I can’t believe how delicious and refreshing this chicken salad is! The Greek yogurt adds just the right creaminess without the guilt. It’s perfect for my family lunch!"
This salad works wonderfully as a quick weeknight dinner or as a light dish during the hot summer months. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can easily serve a crowd, making it great for family gatherings or potluck parties.
How to make Chicken Salad Without Mayo (Greek Yogurt Version)
Step-by-step overview
Making this Chicken Salad Without Mayo is a breeze! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the vibrant flavors that come together in just a few minutes. We’ll start by gathering our key ingredients, then mix everything in one bowl for a dish that looks as good as it tastes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Here are the essential ingredients for your delightful Chicken Salad Without Mayo:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (skins and bones removed, diced)
- 1 celery rib (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely diced)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (reduced sugar preferred)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- Optional: chopped parsley, chives, or dill for garnish
Feel free to substitute the dried cranberries with chopped apples or grapes for a different twist, and if you have leftover cooked chicken, this is a fantastic way to use it up!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and dried cranberries.
- Add in the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the salad thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve sprinkled with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for an added burst of flavor.
How to serve Chicken Salad Without Mayo (Greek Yogurt Version)
Best ways to enjoy it
This Chicken Salad Without Mayo is incredibly versatile! Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a healthy meal, or pile it onto whole-grain bread for a satisfying sandwich. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or stuff it into pita bread. For side dishes, consider pairing it with a light soup, veggie sticks, or whole-grain crackers for a balanced lunch.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about three to four days. Make sure to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours to ensure food safety. If you want to make it ahead of time for meal prepping, the flavors actually develop even more after a day in the fridge. However, avoid freezing, as the texture of the chicken and yogurt may change upon thawing.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken—it’s a huge time-saver and adds depth to your salad. When mixing, start with the yogurt and spices to create a well-blended base before adding in the chicken and crunchy ingredients. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to adjust the amount of Dijon mustard according to your taste preferences.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to customize your chicken salad! Try adding diced apples or grapes for a fruity touch, or incorporate nuts for some crunch. You can also swap the Greek yogurt for avocado to make it dairy-free. For a spicy kick, add some jalapeños or a touch of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this chicken salad?
The prep time for this chicken salad is approximately 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick and delicious meal.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor to your salad.
Is this chicken salad recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This chicken salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for several days, making it perfect for meal prepping. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’re good to go!
Chicken Salad Without Mayo (Greek Yogurt Version)
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, packed with protein and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Healthy
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (skins and bones removed, diced)
- 1 celery rib (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely diced)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (reduced sugar preferred)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- Optional: chopped parsley, chives, or dill for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and dried cranberries.
- Add in the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the salad thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve sprinkled with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for an added burst of flavor.
Notes
For best flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken. Can be customized with apples or grapes for sweetness.