Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh, flavorful, and healthy chicken salad recipe? You’ve found it! This Healthy Chicken Salad is loaded with tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a creamy, mayo-free Greek yogurt dressing. It’s the perfect balance of texture and taste, and it’s one of my go-to recipes for quick lunches and family gatherings!

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a casual brunch, this chicken salad is bound to impress. Plus, it’s super versatile and can be served in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or even as a dip with your favorite crackers. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Healthy Chicken Salad is a game-changer for anyone seeking healthy dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor. Packed with lean protein, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, mayo-free dressing, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile serve it as a chicken salad sandwich, in lettuce wraps, or on top of mixed greens. Whether you’re looking for a salad healthy enough for lunch or a hearty meal prep option, this dish checks all the boxes. Simple to make, gluten-free, and naturally high in protein what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cups chopped cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken)
3/4 cup thinly sliced celery (2-3 stalks)
1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions (about 5)
1 cup red seedless grapes (halved)
1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (optional)
3/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

How To Make Healthy Chicken Salad

Shred the Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Chop or shred to get about 3 cups.
Prep the Veggies: Slice celery and green onions, halve the grapes, and finely chop parsley if using.

Ingredients for Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe

Toast the Almonds: Use a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until lightly browned and fragrant.
Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon zest, juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

How To Make Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe

Combine and Mix: Add chicken, veggies, grapes, almonds, and parsley to the dressing. Stir gently to combine.
Taste and Season: Adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

On Toasted Bread: Makes a hearty and satisfying sandwich.
In Lettuce Wraps: A great low-carb option.
On Croissants: Perfect for parties and showers.
Over Greens: Serve on a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal.
In a Wrap: Roll it up in a whole-wheat tortilla.
As a Dip: Serve with crackers or veggie sticks.

Tips for Success

Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
Toast the almonds for better flavor and crunch.
Adjust the sweetness with more or less honey.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing will change the texture and make it watery.

FAQs

Can I Make Healthy Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This chicken salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Can I Use Regular Mayonnaise Instead of Greek Yogurt?

Yes, you can! While Greek yogurt is a healthier option, swapping it with mayonnaise will give you a classic, creamy texture. You can also use half yogurt and half mayo for a balanced taste.

Can I Make This Chicken Salad Dairy Free?

Yes, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or a creamy avocado dressing. You can also try a blend of olive oil and lemon juice.

What Are Some Good Add-Ins or Substitutions?

Dried Cranberries or Apples: Add a touch of sweetness.
Walnuts or Pecans: Swap out the almonds for a different crunch.
Bell Peppers: Add some diced peppers for extra color and texture.

Is This Chicken Salad Keto-Friendly?

Yes! Just skip the grapes and honey, and use full-fat Greek yogurt to keep it keto-friendly.

How Can I Serve Healthy Chicken Salad in Different Ways?

Try serving it as a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, on top of greens, or as a dip with veggies.

Deviled Egg Salad: Creamy and flavorful, this egg salad is a protein-packed twist on a classic, perfect for sandwiches or lettuce wraps. Great for meal prep and quick lunches!

Cold Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe: Tender roast beef piled high on crusty bread with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing ideal for picnics or lunch on the go.

Best Potato Salad Recipe: A crowd-pleasing side dish featuring tender potatoes, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for BBQs and potlucks!

Conclusion

This Healthy Chicken Salad is truly the best combination of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for healthy lunch ideas or a hearty chicken salad sandwich recipe, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s versatile, protein-packed, and perfect for meal prepping. From grilled chicken salad to a chicken salad sandwich, you can customize it to fit any craving. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to salad healthy option!

Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe - Easy & Delicious

Let’s Stay Connected!

If you loved this Healthy Chicken Salad, make sure to pin it on Pinterest for later and share your creations with me! I’d love to see how you make it your own.

Enjoy your delicious, protein-packed meal