The Secret Ingredient That Makes My Chicken Salad Healthier—and More Delicious

I used to think mayonnaise was non-negotiable in chicken salad. It adds creaminess! It adds richness! It’s the ingredient that makes it, well… chicken salad. But one afternoon, as I was prepping a batch for the week, I realized I was all out of mayo and the only thing that was remotely similar was a container of full-fat Greek yogurt. It felt like a bit of a gamble, but I’d swapped Greek yogurt for sour cream in dips before, so I figured making this substitution wasn’t completely reckless. Turns out, it was a delicious decision.  

When I tried the first bite of my last-minute creation, it was light and fresh—like classic chicken salad, but with a clean finish instead of that heavy, slightly greasy aftertaste. And it somehow made the whole dish feel a little more elevated, like something you’d serve at a fancy brunch or high tea. 

Now, Greek yogurt is my go-to base for chicken salad. It’s still creamy, a tad tangy, and adds a protein boost while cutting back on fat. Not only that, there’s more flavor without having an overly rich heaviness you sometimes get with store-bought chicken salad drenched in mayo. 

This simple swap has turned chicken salad into a lunch I can enjoy on repeat without ever getting bored. I now make a batch almost every week—it’s one of those convenient meals that’s endlessly customizable. Whether I’m craving a sandwich, a salad topper, or a dip for crudités, this chicken salad recipe always hits the mark. 

How to Make Chicken Salad Healthier

Want to make this healthier take on chicken salad at home? Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt (or 2%) for the best texture and creamiest taste, and follow the steps below.

1. With your hands or a food processor, shred 2 cups of either cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. 
2. Add 1/3 cup of plain Greek yogurt, or a bit more if you want extra creaminess.
3. Mix in something crunchy, like diced celery, red onion, and chopped walnuts or almonds. 
4. If you like something sweet, add in some halved grapes or a handful of dried cranberries for contrast.
5. Be sure to season the chicken salad well with salt, pepper, and a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice brighten things up.
6. Optional: A little Dijon mustard or a pinch of curry powder can transform your classic chicken salad into something exceptional.