Extra Protein Chicken Salad

Extra Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

This Extra Protein Chicken Salad recipe is adapted from my Classic Chicken Salad with Grapes. To give it a protein boost, I used half plain Greek yogurt and added more almonds. Healthy and delicious, it is perfect for potlucks, lunch, or a warm summer day when you don’t want to stand over a hot stove to cook dinner.

I’m always trying to increase the amount of protein in my diet. You hardly notice the Greek yogurt in this chicken salad, and I like the little bit of tang it adds. Make sure to add the lemon juice to brighten the salad and bring out all the flavors.

You can serve it in a croissant or with crackers. If you’re cutting carbs, wrap it in lettuce or eat it like a dip with celery, cucumbers, or carrots.

High-Protein and Fiber Recipes

Step-by-Step Photos of How to Make Extra Protein Chicken Salad

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Extra Protein Chicken Sala

Can I use a rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken?

Yes, you can. If you do, you need to remove any skin and shred or chop the chicken into small cubes to equal 2 cups of chicken. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before mixing up the salad.

Do you recommend using all Greek yogurt?

If you don’t like mayonnaise, using all Greek yogurt is a good option and a healthier alternative because it’s lower in fat and calories.

What grapes are best?

Red grapes will add more sweetness to the salad than green grapes. You can use half red and half green grapes to change it up. Just make sure the grapes are seedless, whichever type you choose to use.

Are walnuts a good substitute for almonds?

Yes, they are. There are several Classic Chicken Salad recipes that call for chopped walnuts. You could even use pecans, if you like them better.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes. I would recommend making it only one day in advance before serving it, though.

Chef’s Tools for Chicken Salad:

Extra Protein Chicken Salad

Prep time

15 mins

Total time

15 mins

Chicken salad made with half plain Greek yogurt and more almonds for a protein boost. Healthy and delicious, this recipe is perfect for lunch, potlucks, or a warm summer day when you don't want to stand over a hot stove to cook dinner.

Author: Maria, adapted from Classic Chicken Salad with Grapes

Recipe type: Sandwich Filling/Dip

Serves: 4-5 cups

Ingredients

2 (12.5-ounce) cans of chicken, drained
2-3 stalks of celery, finely diced (approx. 1 cup)
⅓ cup sliced almonds
1 cup red or green grapes, cut in half or thirds
⅓ cup red or yellow onion, finely diced
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ tsp lemon juice, bottled or fresh, or ¼ tsp lemon pepper
¼ tsp ground sage or poultry seasoning (I used ⅛ tsp of each.)
¼ tsp salt, to taste
⅛ tsp ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and mix until chicken pieces are broken up and all ingredients are lightly covered in the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.
Serve in rolls or croissants for sandwiches or use as a dip with crackers and vegetables.
Tightly cover and refrigerate leftovers.
For optimal flavor, refrigerate one hour before serving.
Enjoy!