Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

This Chicken Salad No Mayo with Greek Yogurt is the perfect blend of creamy and savory. It’s packed with juicy grapes, crunchy almonds, and tender shredded chicken, making it an ideal option for lunch, dinner, or a light snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing meals for the week, or simply craving something refreshing, this chicken salad offers versatility and flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, it provides a lighter option without compromising on taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for enjoying with crackers, in a sandwich, or as a wrap—suitable for any occasion!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sweet grapes and crunchy almonds adds texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days—great for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

To make this chicken salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare your delicious Chicken Salad No Mayo.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of your fruits and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

Ingredients

This Chicken Salad No Mayo is creamy, savory, and flavorful. This chicken salad also has juicy grapes, crunchy almonds, and tender shredded chicken.

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 cups shredded chicken breasts
• ½ cup sliced raw almonds
• 1 ¼ cups Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup red grapes (quartered)
• 1 cup celery ribs (diced)
• ½ cup green onions (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• salt and ground black pepper (to taste)

Serve with crackers, bread, or croissants.

How to Make Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add all the ingredients to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mix Thoroughly

Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the Greek yogurt. Make sure the yogurt is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Taste your chicken salad and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Enjoy your chicken salad immediately with crackers or use it in a sandwich or wrap. For meal prep, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.

How to Serve Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

Serving Chicken Salad No Mayo with Greek Yogurt is versatile and fun. You can enjoy it in various ways that suit your taste and occasion.

With Crackers

• Choose your favorite crispy crackers for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy salad.

In a Sandwich

• Spread the chicken salad between slices of whole grain or sourdough bread for a hearty lunch option.

As a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves or tortillas to wrap the chicken salad for a fresh, low-carb meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a light and healthy dinner.

With Croissants

• For a more indulgent treat, spoon the chicken salad into flaky croissants for a delightful brunch option.

How to Perfect Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

To make your Chicken Salad No Mayo truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh and high-quality chicken, vegetables, and grapes to enhance flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before serving; add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance flavors.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined so every bite is deliciously creamy and flavorful.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding diced apples, dried cranberries, or chopped herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
• Pair with Healthy Sides: Complement the chicken salad with nutritious sides to create a well-rounded meal.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Salad No Mayo enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness that balances the savory chicken salad.
2. Vegetable Sticks: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks offer crunch and are great for dipping into leftover yogurt dressing.
3. Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the lightness of the salad.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette introduces a nutty flavor and additional protein.
5. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal alongside the chilled chicken salad.
6. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread serves as an excellent vehicle for enjoying the creamy chicken salad in each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Salad No Mayo with Greek Yogurt, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Dry Chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist by either poaching or grilling it with some seasoning before shredding. Dry chicken can make the salad unappetizing.
• Overdoing the Dressing: While Greek yogurt adds creaminess, using too much can make the salad watery. Start with less and add more gradually to find your ideal consistency.
• Ignoring Balance: A good chicken salad has a mix of flavors and textures. Don’t forget ingredients like grapes and almonds for sweetness and crunch.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of your chicken salad. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for a well-rounded dish.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together, making it more enjoyable.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Salad No Mayo in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before sealing the container to help retain moisture.

Freezing Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

• Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of Greek yogurt, causing it to separate when thawed.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting crunchy ingredients like almonds and celery before freezing.

Reheating Chicken Salad No Mayo (with Greek Yogurt)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Use low heat on a skillet, stirring frequently until just warmed—avoid overheating as it may affect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for grapes in Chicken Salad No Mayo?

You can use diced apples or dried cranberries for a similar sweetness.

Can I use other types of yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, regular yogurt works too, but it may not provide the same thickness.

How do I make Chicken Salad No Mayo more filling?

Add whole grains like quinoa or serve it over a bed of greens for added nutrition.

What is the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

You can shred chicken easily using two forks or a stand mixer on low speed for quick results.

Is Chicken Salad No Mayo healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from chicken and benefits from healthy fats in yogurt, making it a nutritious choice.

Conclusion

This Chicken Salad No Mayo with Greek Yogurt is creamy, flavorful, and versatile! It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients like nuts or different fruits to suit your taste preferences.

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