Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lunch
Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome
This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a healthy and delicious option for lunch that you can prepare ahead of time. Packed with protein and flavor, it's perfect for busy weekdays.
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make. The yogurt replaces traditional mayonnaise, making it a lighter choice without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for meal prep, it keeps well in the fridge for several days!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor without the extra calories
- Packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs
A Healthy Alternative
In today's fast-paced world, finding nutritious meal options can be challenging. This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad offers a healthy alternative to traditional creamy chicken salads, which often rely on heavy mayonnaise. By using Greek yogurt, you not only cut down on calories but also boost the protein content, making this salad a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. This means that not only are you enjoying a delicious meal, but you’re also supporting your digestive system. The combination of chicken and yogurt provides a complete protein source, making this salad a great post-workout meal or a filling lunch to keep you energized throughout the day.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this chicken salad is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or to use up ingredients you already have at home. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped bell peppers or carrots. For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.
This recipe is also a great way to introduce kids to healthy eating. Allow them to help in the kitchen by choosing their favorite add-ins, such as diced apples for sweetness or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch. Not only will they enjoy the process, but they will also be more likely to eat something they helped create.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prepping can save you time and stress during busy weekdays. This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is perfect for making in bulk and storing in individual portions. Simply divide the salad into airtight containers, and you’ll have lunch ready to go for several days. Just grab one from the fridge in the morning, and you're all set for a nutritious meal.
Additionally, this salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a practical choice for your weekly meal prep. When you’re ready to eat, simply serve it over mixed greens, in a sandwich, or in a wrap for a delightful and quick lunch option.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed greens for serving
Enjoy your fresh and healthy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your meal prep chicken salad.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, halved grapes, diced red onion, chopped walnuts, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve
Serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap. Enjoy!
Your healthy meal prep is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. You can also substitute the chicken with canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Storage Tips
To keep your Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep any greens separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent them from wilting. If you anticipate not finishing the salad within four days, consider freezing portions without the greens for later use, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
When it comes to reheating, this salad is best served cold, but if you prefer warm chicken, you can gently reheat the chicken before mixing it with the yogurt. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can change the texture of the yogurt.
Nutritional Benefits
The combination of ingredients in this chicken salad provides a range of nutritional benefits. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, while Greek yogurt contributes calcium and probiotics. The addition of celery and grapes adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for overall health.
Walnuts not only bring a delightful crunch but also provide healthy fats, which are important for heart health. Incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into your diet can help maintain energy levels and support a healthy weight.
Serving Suggestions
While this Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to serve it. Consider using it as a filling for a whole grain wrap or sandwich for a more substantial meal. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or a light soup for a balanced lunch.
For a refreshing twist, try serving the salad in lettuce cups for a low-carb option. Add some sliced avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works well in this recipe.
→ How long does the chicken salad last in the fridge?
It can last for up to 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It's perfect for meal prep and can be made up to 3 days in advance.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lunch
This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a healthy and delicious option for lunch that you can prepare ahead of time. Packed with protein and flavor, it's perfect for busy weekdays.
Created by: Rowena Clarke
Recipe Type: Light & Wholesome
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed greens for serving
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced celery, halved grapes, diced red onion, chopped walnuts, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. You can also substitute the chicken with canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g