chicken salad recipe without mayo
The Best chicken salad recipe without mayo
This chicken salad recipe without mayo is one of my go-to favorites, and I’ve been making it for years—both for quick weeknight meals and for when we’re hosting a little something special. There’s something about the way the flavors blend together without needing heavy cream or oil to hold it all together. It’s light yet satisfying, and it keeps well in the fridge, so you can prep it ahead and save time. My kids love it because it’s not too sweet, not too salty—just the right balance of fresh, crunchy, and tender. It’s a staple in our house, whether it’s packed in a sandwich for lunch, spread on a wrap for dinner, or served over greens for a light meal. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats from the chicken and avocado, which helps keep everyone full and energized without the heaviness of mayo-based dressings.
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. It’s great for meal prep, so I can make a big batch and have it ready for the week. My husband and kids both prefer it this way—no greasy mess, just clean flavors. It’s also perfect for special occasions, whether it’s a potluck or a simple family dinner. The fresh herbs and lemon add brightness, making it feel fresh and inviting, even if it’s just sitting on the counter for a few hours. And because it doesn’t rely on mayo, it’s lighter on digestion too, which is nice when we’re eating more throughout the day. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize—swap in whatever veggies you have, add a little more crunch with nuts or seeds, or adjust the seasoning to taste. It’s simple, but it always feels special when we make it.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Salad Without Mayo
A refreshing, creamy chicken salad made with Greek yogurt and light dressing, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or wraps. No mayo required!
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced red onion
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet.
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2 Bake chicken for 12-15 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Let cool completely.
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3 In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, celery, red onion, cucumber, and bell peppers.
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4 In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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5 Once chicken is cool, shred or chop it finely. Add to the salad bowl along with fresh parsley and dill.
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6 Pour the dressing over the chicken and toss gently to combine. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking pan
- Food processor or blender (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
- Salad spinner or bowl
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Healthy Creamy Chicken Salad Without Mayo Works
This no-mayo chicken salad is a lifesaver for any gathering—whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a family potluck, it keeps everyone happy without the heaviness of mayo. The light, fresh flavors make it feel special without the fuss, and it holds up just as well in a sandwich as it does in a wrap or on a salad bowl. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies or herbs you’ve got on hand, so it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Creamy Chicken Salad Without Mayo
What is the best way to prepare a creamy chicken salad without mayo?
A great creamy chicken salad without mayo can be achieved by blending Greek yogurt, avocado, and a touch of lemon juice for richness. You can also add a bit of Greek yogurt mixed with a little bit of Greek yogurt-based dressing (like a homemade vinaigrette) or even a splash of buttermilk for that tangy, creamy texture.
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How can I make this chicken salad more flavorful without using mayo?
To enhance flavor, incorporate ingredients like diced celery, red onion, fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), a squeeze of lemon or lime, and a dash of Dijon mustard or hot sauce. You can also add a small amount of olive oil to create a light, flavorful dressing instead of mayo. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder will also elevate the taste.
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What are some healthy alternatives to mayo in chicken salad?
Instead of mayo, consider using: – Greek yogurt (plain or slightly flavored) – Avocado puree (for a creamy texture) – Light sour cream or buttermilk – Hummus (for a nutty flavor) – A mixture of Greek yogurt and a light vinaigrette (like olive oil and lemon juice) – Tahini dressing (a blend of tahini, lemon, and water for a nutty, creamy taste)
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Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time and keep it fresh?
Yes, you can prepare chicken salad ahead of time, but storing it properly is key to keeping it fresh. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, add a bit of lemon juice or vinegar before storing. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating to enhance the flavors.
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What are some great toppings or sides to pair with chicken salad?
Chicken salad pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides, including: – Fresh fruit like grapes, berries, or sliced apples – Crunchy vegetables like sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes – Whole-grain crackers, bread, or wraps – Salads like mixed greens or a simple arugula salad – A side of roasted or grilled vegetables – Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for garnish – A light, zesty dressing like lemon-olive oil or balsamic vinaigrette
