Jacy introduction
This chicken salad is simple, healthy, and full of fresh taste. It mixes cooked chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans with Greek yogurt for a creamy bite. If you like quick ideas, check this quick chicken salad idea for more ways to enjoy cooked chicken.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is healthy, easy, and fast. It uses plain Greek yogurt to cut fat and add protein. It gives crunchy and sweet textures with celery, pecans, and grapes. You can make it for lunch, a light dinner, or to take to work.
how to make The BEST Healthy Chicken Salad
- Wash and dry the grapes before you slice them. Add them to a water-filled bowl with 1 teaspoon of baking soda stirred in and let them sit for about 5 minutes. Then rinse and dry them before you slice them. This removes the film on the grapes and makes them more flavorful.
- Place the cooked, diced or shredded chicken and the rest of the salad ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Add the grapes to the bowl with the rest of the salad ingredients and toss everything together until well combined into a creamy, chunky chicken salad.
- You can serve this salad immediately or store it for a few hours before serving. For other simple ideas and recipes, see these easy healthy chicken recipes.
Ingredients :
- 2.5 cups cooked, diced or shredded chicken
- 3 stalks of celery – about 1/2 cup diced
- 1 cup sliced grapes
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1-2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Directions :
- Add grapes to a water bowl with 1 teaspoon baking soda and let sit 5 minutes; rinse and dry before slicing.
- Add grapes to a medium bowl with the rest of the salad ingredients and toss until well combined into a creamy, chunky chicken salad.
- You can serve this salad immediately or store it for a few hours before serving.
how to serve The BEST Healthy Chicken Salad
Serve on a bed of lettuce or baby spinach for a light salad. Spoon it into a sandwich or wrap for lunch. Offer it with crackers or on top of toasted bread for a simple snack.
how to store The BEST Healthy Chicken Salad
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days. Do not freeze because the yogurt and grapes change texture when frozen.
tips to make The BEST Healthy Chicken Salad
- Use cooled, fully cooked chicken like rotisserie or leftover roast chicken.
- Chop the celery and onion small for easy bites.
- Adjust mayo and yogurt to get the creaminess you like.
- Add lemon zest and juice last to keep the bright flavor.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
variation (if any)
- Swap pecans for chopped almonds or walnuts.
- Use dried cranberries instead of grapes for a chewy sweet bite.
- Add a teaspoon of curry powder for a curried chicken salad.
- Replace red onion with green onion for a milder taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use only mayo instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, but yogurt makes it lighter and adds protein. Use more mayo if you want richer flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it chilled. Mix well before serving.
Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes. Cut ingredients small and use mild onion or leave onion out for young children.
Q: Can I use frozen grapes?
A: Fresh grapes work best. Frozen grapes melt and add extra water which can thin the salad.
Conclusion
This chicken salad is a healthy, tasty, and easy option for meals or snacks. For another take on a healthy chicken salad, you can read the recipe at iFoodReal’s Healthy Chicken Salad. To compare variations and ideas, check out Kalejunkie’s Ultimate Healthy Chicken Salad.
Healthy Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and dry the grapes, then add them to a bowl of water mixed with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Let sit for about 5 minutes before rinsing and drying.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced celery, sliced grapes, chopped pecans, chopped red onion, Greek yogurt, mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Toss all the ingredients together until well combined into a creamy, chunky chicken salad.
- Serve immediately on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich or wrap, or with crackers on the side.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Do not freeze.
