Name: Healthy Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light mayonnaise); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1 medium apple or 1 cup grapes, chopped; 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in protein and low in unhealthy fats
Perfect for meal prep and easy lunches
Versatile—enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own
Fresh, crunchy, and satisfying
A lighter alternative to traditional mayonnaise-heavy chicken salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
Plain Greek yogurt (or light mayonnaise for creamier texture)
Dijon mustard
Celery (chopped)
Red onion (finely diced)
Apples or grapes (chopped, for sweetness)
Almonds or walnuts (chopped, for crunch)
Fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
Lemon juice
Salt and black pepper

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Add the chicken, celery, red onion, apples (or grapes), and nuts. Stir until everything is well coated.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and adjust seasoning if needed.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Swap Greek yogurt with mashed avocado for a creamy dairy-free option.
Add chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet touch.
Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. This recipe is not suitable for freezing, as the yogurt-based dressing may separate. Serve chilled—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works, though fresh or rotisserie chicken gives better texture and flavor.

How do I make this salad dairy-free?

You can replace Greek yogurt with avocado, dairy-free yogurt, or olive oil–based mayonnaise.

Is this recipe good for weight loss?

Yes, since it’s high in protein and lower in calories than traditional chicken salad, it fits well into most balanced diets.

Can I meal prep this chicken salad?

Absolutely—it keeps well for several days, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches.

What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?

It’s delicious in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or simply over a bed of greens.

Can I add eggs to this chicken salad?

Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great addition for extra protein.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Yes, grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that works wonderfully in this salad.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss them in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Can I make this chicken salad spicy?

Yes, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the salad itself is gluten-free. Just make sure any bread, wraps, or crackers you serve it with are gluten-free if needed.

Conclusion

Healthy Chicken Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines lean protein, crisp vegetables, and a light creamy dressing. It’s easy to make, highly versatile, and perfect for busy days when you want something quick, wholesome, and satisfying. Whether served on bread, in lettuce wraps, or on its own, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.