EASY CHICKEN SALAD

If you’re looking for a fresh, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s both quick and satisfying, this Easy Chicken Salad is the perfect go-to. Packed with lean protein, fruits, and veggies, it’s ideal for lunches, light dinners, or meal prepping. The blend of tender chicken, crunchy cucumber and celery, sweet grapes and apples, all tossed in a creamy yogurt-mayo dressing with subtle seasoning, creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Whether served in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or in a wrap, this chicken salad is a wholesome favorite you’ll make again and again.

ingredients

2 cups chicken
½ apple diced
¼ cup sliced grapes
2 celery stems sliced
1 seedless mini cucumber
¼ cup raisins
¼ cup plain yogurt
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ tsp onion powder
dashes of salt, pepper

instructions

• Cook and shred or dice the chicken, then place it in a large mixing bowl
• Add the diced apple, sliced grapes, celery, cucumber, and raisins to the bowl
• In a separate small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, onion powder, salt, and pepper
• Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture
• Gently stir everything together until evenly coated
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld
• Serve chilled as desired

serving and storage tips

• serve chilled – enjoy the chicken salad cold for the best flavor and texture
• sandwich option – scoop onto croissants, toasted bread, or bagels for a hearty sandwich
• low-carb style – serve in lettuce wraps, cucumber boats, or on a bed of mixed greens
• picnic-ready – pack it in a cooler for picnics or lunches on the go
• dip alternative – use as a dip with whole grain crackers or veggie sticks
• make-ahead – prepare up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator
• storage – keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• do not freeze – freezing is not recommended due to the yogurt and fruit content
• stir before serving – mix gently before serving again to redistribute the creamy dressing
• portion wisely – store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches

variations

• greek-style chicken salad – replace the mayonnaise with more plain yogurt, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and mix in chopped fresh dill, parsley, and a handful of crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist

• spicy chicken salad – stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce, and sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bold, spicy flavor profile

• nutty crunch version – add 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds to bring a toasty crunch and healthy fats to the mix

• herb lover’s version – mix in freshly chopped herbs such as basil, parsley, chives, or tarragon to enhance the freshness and elevate the aroma

• tropical chicken salad – swap out the apple and grapes for diced pineapple and mango, and add shredded coconut for a sweet, sunny flavor boost

• extra protein-packed – mix in a chopped hard-boiled egg, cooked quinoa, or chickpeas for added protein and texture

• low-fat option – skip the mayonnaise entirely and use all plain low-fat yogurt for a lighter, tangier flavor without compromising creaminess

• sweet-savory blend – drizzle in 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness and balance out the savory notes

• veggie-boosted – bulk it up with shredded carrots, chopped bell pepper, or spinach leaves for added fiber, nutrients, and vibrant color

• dairy-free version – replace yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk yogurt or coconut yogurt, and use vegan mayo to suit dietary needs

FAQs

can i use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor to the salad.

can i make this chicken salad the night before?
absolutely, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even more—just store it in the fridge.

what’s the best apple to use?
crisp, sweet apples like honeycrisp, gala, or fuji work best for balancing the creamy dressing.

can i skip the grapes or raisins?
yes, you can omit them or substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates.

is it okay to use only yogurt instead of yogurt and mayo?
definitely, using only yogurt makes it lighter and adds a tangy taste—perfect for a healthier version.

how can i make this dairy-free?
use a plant-based yogurt and vegan mayo to make it completely dairy-free.

can i freeze leftover chicken salad?
no, freezing is not recommended as the yogurt and fruits will change in texture once thawed.

how long does this salad last in the fridge?
it will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

can i add pasta to turn this into a pasta salad?
yes, stir in cooked and cooled pasta like rotini or macaroni for a heartier chicken pasta salad.

what’s the best way to serve it for a party?
serve it chilled in a bowl with crackers, pita chips, or mini croissants for easy entertaining.
This Easy Chicken Salad is more than just a quick meal—it’s a deliciously simple solution for busy days, offering the perfect mix of flavor, texture, and nutrition. With endless ways to customize it to your taste, it’s a versatile recipe that fits any lifestyle. Whether you’re packing lunch for work, prepping for the week, or enjoying a light dinner, this chicken salad is sure to please every time.

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