Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

When I first decided to make Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, I was looking for something refreshing and satisfying for a sunny afternoon. It was a warm weekend, and I wanted a dish that could be enjoyed both as a hearty lunch and a light dinner. As I gathered my ingredients, the idea of a salad filled with juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet apples set my imagination alight. The combination of flavors and textures promised a delightful experience. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing adds not only a tangy kick but also a healthy twist to this classic dish. It reminded me of summer picnics and family gatherings, where food brings us together and makes every moment special.

Recipe Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is all about simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a deliciously balanced dish. The star of the show, of course, is the chicken, which is complemented by the crispness of apples and the earthy crunch of pecans. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess, while the lemon juice and cumin bring in bright flavors that elevate the salad to a whole new level.

• 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded – This lean protein is the cornerstone of your salad, providing both flavor and sustenance.
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple, diced small – The tartness of the apple adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons red onion, minced – For a touch of sharpness that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of citrus to brighten the dish.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt – This creamy base keeps the salad moist and adds a tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons clean eating mayonnaise – For a little extra creaminess without compromising health.
• 1 cup pecans, lightly toasted – Their nutty flavor and crunch bring texture and richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds a delightful warmth and depth.

Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Creating this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to whip up a delicious meal. Start by gathering all your ingredients and then dive into the process of combining them for a refreshing dish.

1. Begin by prepping your chicken. If you haven’t already, cook two boneless and skinless chicken breasts until they are tender and easy to shred. You can either boil, bake, or grill them, depending on your preference. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before shredding.
2. Next, take one medium Granny Smith apple and wash it thoroughly. Dice it into small pieces, keeping the skin on for added texture and flavor. The tartness of the apple will balance the richness of the Greek yogurt beautifully.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced apple. Add in 2 tablespoons of minced red onion for a bit of crunch and flavor. Mix together gently so as not to mash the apple pieces.
4. Now, it’s time to make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of clean eating mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This dressing will be creamy yet tangy, perfect for our salad.
5. Once the dressing is well combined, pour it over the chicken and apple mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is well coated. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the integrity of the apple pieces.
6. Add in 1 cup of lightly toasted pecans, 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. These ingredients add depth to the flavor profile and a wonderful crunch.
7. Mix everything together once more until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The pecans should be well incorporated throughout the salad.
8. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
9. After the resting time, give the salad a good stir. If desired, adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch more of Kosher salt or a drizzle of lemon juice to taste.
10. Finally, serve your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, inside a sandwich, or enjoy it by itself. The salad can be garnished with additional pecans or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a touch of color.

Tips and Tricks about Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Here are some practical tips to make sure your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time. With these insights, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressive.

• Storage: To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will preserve the flavors and textures for up to three days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the creamy components separating once thawed. Enjoy it fresh instead!
• Pairing: Serve with fresh bread or alongside a light soup for a complete meal.
• Garnishing: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Variations: Try adding different fruits like grapes or nuts like walnuts for a unique twist.
• Meal Prep: This salad is ideal for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches.

Serving Ideas for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

The Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Here are some great ideas on how to enjoy it:

• As a Sandwich Filling: Use the salad as a filling for whole-grain bread or a wrap. It’s perfect for a quick lunch on the go.
• On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing dinner option.
• With Crackers: Pair it with whole grain or gluten-free crackers for a crunchy snack or appetizer.
• In a Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad for a fresh and healthy bite.
• At Picnics: This salad is great for outdoor gatherings. Pack it in a cooler and serve it with fresh fruit for a delightful picnic.
• Family Gatherings: Impress your guests at family events by serving this delicious salad as a side dish. It complements grilled meats perfectly.
• For Meal Prep: Make a large batch to use throughout the week. It holds up well in the refrigerator and makes for a quick meal any time.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and health. The combination of crunchy pecans, sweet apples, and creamy dressing makes it a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to try making it for your next lunch or picnic. It’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, sure to impress your family and friends!

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

The ultimate summer dish! Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet apples in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch at home. Make it tonight for a refreshing meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 335

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 breasts boneless and skinless chicken cooked and shredded
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple diced small
• 2 tablespoons red onion minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons clean eating mayonnaise
• 1 cup pecans lightly toasted
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Begin by prepping your chicken. If you haven't already, cook two boneless and skinless chicken breasts until they are tender and easy to shred. You can either boil, bake, or grill them, depending on your preference. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before shredding.
2. Next, take one medium Granny Smith apple and wash it thoroughly. Dice it into small pieces, keeping the skin on for added texture and flavor. The tartness of the apple will balance the richness of the Greek yogurt beautifully.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced apple. Add in 2 tablespoons of minced red onion for a bit of crunch and flavor. Mix together gently so as not to mash the apple pieces.
4. Now, it’s time to make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of clean eating mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This dressing will be creamy yet tangy, perfect for our salad.
5. Once the dressing is well combined, pour it over the chicken and apple mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is well coated. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the integrity of the apple pieces.
6. Add in 1 cup of lightly toasted pecans, 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. These ingredients add depth to the flavor profile and a wonderful crunch.
7. Mix everything together once more until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The pecans should be well incorporated throughout the salad.
8. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
9. After the resting time, give the salad a good stir. If desired, adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch more of Kosher salt or a drizzle of lemon juice to taste.
10. Finally, serve your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, inside a sandwich, or enjoy it by itself. The salad can be garnished with additional pecans or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a touch of color.

Notes

Here are some practical tips to make sure your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time. With these insights, you'll create a dish that's not only delicious but also impressive.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.