Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lunch
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a healthy and delicious option for your lunch box. Packed with protein and flavor, it's perfect for busy weekdays!
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. Made with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, it's the perfect meal prep solution for health-conscious eaters.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor without the extra calories of mayonnaise
- Packed with protein to keep you full throughout the day
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite veggies
Nutritional Benefits
This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The primary ingredient, Greek yogurt, is a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Unlike traditional mayonnaise-based salads, Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture while being lower in calories and fat. This makes it a guilt-free option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
The addition of chicken breast further boosts the protein content, making this salad a perfect choice for lunch. With each serving, you’ll receive a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables like celery and red onion, which contribute to your daily fiber intake. This fiber helps in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, keeping those mid-afternoon cravings at bay.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best features of this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is its suitability for meal prep. By making a batch at the beginning of the week, you ensure that you have a quick, nutritious lunch ready to go, saving time and stress during busy weekdays. Simply store the salad in individual containers, and you’ll have a convenient meal option that you can grab on your way out the door.
To keep the salad fresh and flavorful throughout the week, make sure to seal the containers tightly. You can also customize your meal prep by varying the ingredients. Consider adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or swapping out walnuts for almonds or pecans to keep things interesting and tailored to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For a low-carb option, consider serving it in lettuce wraps or alongside a fresh green salad. If you're looking for a heartier meal, serve the salad on whole-grain bread or in a pita pocket for a satisfying sandwich.
Additionally, this salad pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, or whole-grain crackers for a balanced meal. You can even add a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt to your dietary preferences and cravings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl and serve over greens or in a sandwich.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Shred the cooked chicken breast and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Mix the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced celery, halved grapes, red onion, and chopped walnuts to the shredded chicken. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until well combined.
Store for Meal Prep
Divide the chicken salad into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy salad for lunch throughout the week!
Storage Tips
To maximize the freshness of your Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any spoilage and keep the flavors intact. It's best enjoyed within four days, so be sure to plan your meals accordingly to finish it off within that timeframe.
If you want to prepare ingredients in advance, consider chopping the vegetables and cooking the chicken ahead of time. Store the chicken and veggies separately from the dressing to maintain their texture and flavor. Combine everything just before serving for the best results.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with your Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad! You can add in your favorite herbs and spices, such as dill or parsley, for an extra layer of flavor. If you enjoy a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
Moreover, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins like canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option, but make sure to drain it well before using.
→ How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
→ Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
→ What can I serve this salad with?
This salad is great on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens.
Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lunch
This Meal Prep Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a healthy and delicious option for your lunch box. Packed with protein and flavor, it's perfect for busy weekdays!
Created by: Hayley Morton
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
How-To Steps
Shred the cooked chicken breast and place it in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add the diced celery, halved grapes, red onion, and chopped walnuts to the shredded chicken. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until well combined.
Divide the chicken salad into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g