High-Protein Chicken Salad (Healthy and Easy)

This high-protein chicken salad is creamy and satisfying but lightened up with Greek yogurt in place of most of the mayo. It is packed with protein, easy to prep, and endlessly versatile.

Pile it on greens, stuff it into a wrap, or spread it on toast for a lunch that keeps you full for hours.

Why you’ll love this high-protein chicken salad

• High protein: Greek yogurt and chicken do double duty.
• Lighter: less mayo, more nutrition.
• Meal-prep friendly: make it once, eat it all week.
• Versatile: salad, wrap, sandwich, or crackers.

Ingredients you’ll need

Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken makes this a no-cook, 15-minute recipe.

• 3 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to make high-protein chicken salad (step by step)

1. Add the cooked chicken to a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, and lemon juice.
3. Add the celery, red onion, and herbs to the chicken, then pour the dressing over.
4. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Food safety: cook chicken to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). An instant-read thermometer is the surest way to check — see the FoodSafety.gov chart.

Tips for the best results

• Use rotisserie chicken for a fast, no-cook version.
• Chill before serving so the flavors meld.
• Adjust the creaminess with more yogurt or a touch more mayo.

Variations & substitutions

• Add grapes or diced apple for a sweet crunch.
• Stir in chopped almonds or walnuts.
• Add curry powder for a curried chicken salad.

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Do not freeze, as the dressing separates.

Frequently asked questions

How is this chicken salad high protein?

It uses plenty of cooked chicken plus protein-rich Greek yogurt in place of most of the mayo, boosting the protein per serving.

Can I make it without mayo?

Yes. Use all Greek yogurt for a mayo-free version; add a little olive oil if you want extra richness.

What is the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breast, or any leftover cooked chicken works. Shredded or diced are both fine.

How long does chicken salad last?

Up to 4 days refrigerated. Keep it well chilled and give it a stir before serving.