Perfect for those who love chicken salad but could do without the mayo, this recipe delivers all the creamy, savory goodness you crave, minus the heavy dressing. Packed with flavor and texture, it’s a game-changer for picnics, lunches, and light dinners.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses Greek yogurt and avocado for a creamy texture without mayo, offering a healthier fat profile.
- Incorporates crunchy celery and almonds for a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- Seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon juice for a bright, flavorful punch that elevates the chicken.
- Easy to make ahead, flavors meld and improve over time, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Versatile base recipe that can be customized with endless add-ins to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Fork or potato masher
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring your chicken is cooked and cooled. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the celery, chop the dill, and slice the almonds if they’re not already pre-sliced. Mash the avocado in a separate bowl until smooth. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the mixing process a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mashed avocado. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. This duo will give your chicken salad that creamy texture without any mayo. Add the lemon juice and chopped dill, mixing well to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, and sliced almonds to the bowl with the creamy base. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix to maintain some texture.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Now’s the time to taste your creation. Add salt and pepper as needed, and if you feel it needs a bit more zing, a splash more lemon juice can brighten it right up. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away, so start with a little and adjust as you go.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve on a bed of greens, between slices of your favorite bread, or with crackers for a light and satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even creamier texture, you can blend the avocado and Greek yogurt together before mixing with the other ingredients. If you’re not a fan of almonds, try walnuts or pecans for a different crunch. To make this recipe even quicker, use a rotisserie chicken from the store. For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Lastly, if you’re meal prepping, this chicken salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option.
Recipe Variations
- Add grapes or apples for a sweet crunch.
- Stir in curry powder for a spicy twist.
- Include hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Swap the almonds for sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Look for one that’s plain and unsweetened to keep the flavors balanced. The avocado will still provide plenty of creaminess, so you won’t miss the dairy at all.
How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?
This no-mayo chicken salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The lemon juice helps keep the avocado from browning too quickly, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado and Greek yogurt, which can change texture when thawed. For best results, enjoy this salad fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.
Summary
This no-mayo chicken salad is a lighter, healthier take on the classic, using Greek yogurt and avocado for creaminess. Packed with flavor and texture, it’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping or need a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
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