Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad

This Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh. Using protein-rich Greek yogurt instead of mayo makes it a lighter option without sacrificing any of the comforting, tangy flavor we all love in classic chicken salad.

Perfect for meal prep or a quick and healthy weekday lunch, this salad comes together in just 10 minutes using store-bought rotisserie chicken. The added crunch from celery, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the richness of chopped pecans make this a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. Serve it on lettuce, toast, or even as a dip with crackers – it’s endlessly versatile!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat for best flavor)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/4 cup chopped celery

• 1/4 cup chopped red onion

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped celery, red onion, pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh dill to the bowl.

3. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and all ingredients are well distributed.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor, if desired.

5. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Enjoy in lettuce wraps, on whole grain bread, or as a protein-packed snack on crackers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

A Fresh Take on a Classic: Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a staple in many kitchens—simple to prepare, endlessly versatile, and deeply satisfying. But when you replace traditional mayonnaise with creamy Greek yogurt, the dish transforms into something lighter, tangier, and far more nutritious. The Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of indulgence and health, combining convenience, taste, and a punch of protein in every bite.

This salad is ideal for busy lifestyles. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time, while Greek yogurt lends a creamy texture and tangy flavor that brightens the entire dish. Add in crunchy vegetables, sweet dried cranberries, and earthy pecans, and you have a colorful, texture-rich salad that works for lunch, meal prep, potlucks, or even a light dinner.

Why Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo?

The choice to swap mayo for Greek yogurt isn’t just about cutting calories (though that’s certainly a plus). Greek yogurt brings its own unique benefits and flavor profile to the table. Unlike mayo, which is purely fat-based, Greek yogurt is high in protein and contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health. It adds a light tang that enhances the flavor of the chicken, veggies, and mix-ins, without feeling heavy or greasy.

Additionally, Greek yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, which contributes to bone health, and it’s generally lower in saturated fat than mayonnaise. For anyone looking to maintain a more balanced or heart-conscious diet, this substitution is a game-changer.

Convenience Meets Nutrition

One of the best aspects of this chicken salad recipe is how accessible and efficient it is. By using store-bought rotisserie chicken, you eliminate the need for cooking protein from scratch. This not only reduces prep time but also makes the dish perfect for quick lunches or emergency dinners during the week.

Despite being fast to prepare, this salad doesn’t skimp on nutrition. Each serving provides a good balance of macronutrients—lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from pecans, fiber from vegetables, and complex carbohydrates from dried cranberries. When combined with Greek yogurt’s protein and calcium, the result is a well-rounded meal you can feel good about eating.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Lunches

This salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it a favorite for meal preppers. The Greek yogurt base helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken from drying out over time. If anything, the flavors deepen as they sit, making each bite even more flavorful after a few hours of refrigeration.

You can easily double or triple the batch on a Sunday and divide it into meal containers. It works well served cold, so there’s no need to reheat—just grab and go. Whether packed into lunchboxes, mason jars, or eco-friendly containers, it’s a convenient and satisfying meal option all week long.

A Flavor and Texture Symphony

What makes this Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad so special is the blend of flavors and textures. The chicken provides a tender, savory base. Greek yogurt gives it tang and creaminess. Celery and red onion add satisfying crunch and a hint of sharpness. Sweet dried cranberries contrast beautifully with the mild chicken, while pecans add a toasty richness that brings the salad together.

The use of fresh herbs like dill (or even parsley, cilantro, or chives if you prefer) adds an aromatic lift. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate the salad even more, depending on your taste preferences. The possibilities for customization are endless, which makes this recipe incredibly adaptable.

Ways to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

This chicken salad is endlessly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are just a few creative ways you can enjoy it:

• Lettuce wraps: Spoon the salad into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb lunch.

• Whole grain bread or wraps: Make it a hearty sandwich or wrap for a classic presentation.

• Crackers or cucumber rounds: Serve it as a dip or appetizer during gatherings.

• Over greens: Transform it into a salad by serving it over a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.

• Stuffed in a tomato or avocado: Scoop out a tomato or halve an avocado and fill it with the salad for a unique twist.

• Meal-prep bowls: Pair it with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or brown rice for a power bowl lunch.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, prepping for the week, or simply craving a quick protein-packed bite, this chicken salad delivers on both flavor and function.

Customizations and Variations

Another reason to love this dish is how flexible it is. Here are a few fun and healthy ways to change it up:

• Go dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt if you’re lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet (paired with plant-based chicken).

• Add spice: Mix in a pinch of curry powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne for a spicy version.

• Include fruits: Swap dried cranberries with chopped apples, grapes, or even pineapple for a fruity punch.

• Boost greens: Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or shredded carrots for extra fiber and nutrients.

• Make it keto-friendly: Skip the cranberries and choose higher-fat yogurt for a keto-adapted option.

This recipe is your blank canvas—you can adjust ingredients to suit your tastes, dietary needs, and seasonal availability.

A Healthy Lunch Option for the Whole Family

Kids and adults alike love the familiar comfort of chicken salad, and this Greek yogurt version has the added benefit of being a healthier alternative. It’s mild enough for picky eaters but customizable enough for foodies who crave bold flavors.

It also works great in family meal planning. Serve it with fruit and whole-grain crackers for the kids, or make it more upscale for adults with a glass of iced tea and a fresh green salad. It bridges the gap between healthy and hearty in a way few recipes do.

Nutritional Highlights

Let’s briefly break down the health benefits of some key ingredients:

• Rotisserie Chicken: A quick source of lean protein, especially when skinless.

• Greek Yogurt: High in protein, low in fat, and full of gut-friendly probiotics.

• Celery and Red Onion: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and low in calories.

• Cranberries and Pecans: Offer a balance of sweet and crunchy while providing antioxidants and healthy fats.

• Fresh Herbs: Add anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits with very few calories.

This dish easily fits into many popular dietary lifestyles, including low-carb, high-protein, and Mediterranean-style diets. It’s filling, energizing, and supportive of overall health and wellness.

Conclusion

The Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh, flavorful, and feel-good eating. With its creamy texture, satisfying crunch, and nutritious ingredients, this modern twist on classic chicken salad is a must-try for anyone looking to balance flavor and health.

Perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or simple family dinners, this dish proves that eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or convenience. It’s proof that with a few smart swaps—like choosing Greek yogurt over mayonnaise—you can elevate a timeless favorite into something truly wholesome and exciting.

Whether you’re focused on fitness, meal prep, or just want a delicious new recipe in your rotation, this chicken salad has everything you’re looking for: simplicity, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Add it to your weekly menu and watch it become a go-to staple in your kitchen.