Honestly, I never thought I could get my family, especially my kids, excited about chicken salad, let alone lettuce wraps. Chicken salad in our house used to be synonymous with heavy mayonnaise-laden concoctions that felt more like a guilty pleasure than a nutritious meal. But then I stumbled upon the magic of Greek yogurt. This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wrap recipe has completely transformed our lunches and light dinners. It’s incredibly flavorful, refreshingly light, and packed with protein, making it both satisfying and guilt-free. The creamy tang of the Greek yogurt perfectly complements the tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all nestled in cool, crunchy lettuce cups. Even my picky eaters devour these, loving the fun, hand-held format and the delicious taste. It’s become a weekly staple in our house, a testament to how simple, healthy ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s quick to make, incredibly versatile, and a crowd-pleaser, you absolutely have to try these Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps. You might just find yourself, like me, wondering how you ever enjoyed chicken salad any other way!

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 lbs): The protein powerhouse of our salad. Opt for high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can cook them by poaching, baking, grilling, or even using leftover rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
• Plain Greek Yogurt (1 cup): The star of our healthier twist! Use full-fat or non-fat depending on your preference. Full-fat will be creamier, while non-fat will be lighter and lower in calories. Ensure it’s plain and unsweetened for the savory flavor profile we’re aiming for.
• Celery (2 stalks): Adds a delightful crunch and subtle savory note. Finely dice the celery for even distribution throughout the salad.
• Red Onion (½ medium): Provides a sharp, pungent bite that balances the creamy yogurt and chicken. Finely dice the red onion, or for a milder flavor, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes and drain before adding to the salad.
• Fresh Dill (¼ cup, chopped): Lends a bright, herbaceous, and slightly lemony flavor that perfectly complements chicken and yogurt. Fresh dill is highly recommended for its vibrant taste, but dried dill can be used in a pinch (use about 1 tablespoon dried dill).
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, fresh): Adds acidity and brightness, enhancing all the other flavors and preventing the salad from tasting bland. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for the best flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a subtle tang and depth of flavor, tying all the ingredients together. Dijon mustard offers a sharper, more complex flavor than yellow mustard.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor profile. Adjust to your liking, starting with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and then taste and adjust as needed.
• Lettuce Cups (such as butter lettuce, romaine lettuce, or iceberg lettuce): The vehicle for our delicious chicken salad! Choose large, sturdy lettuce leaves that will hold the filling well. Butter lettuce and romaine are great for their pliable texture and mild flavor, while iceberg lettuce offers a satisfying crunch.

Instructions for Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

1. Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can poach them in simmering water until cooked through (about 15-20 minutes), bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, grill them, or use leftover cooked chicken. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken cool slightly before proceeding.
2. Shred or Dice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it using two forks or dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. Shredding creates a more delicate texture, while dicing provides more substantial chunks. Place the shredded or diced chicken in a large mixing bowl.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry the celery and red onion. Finely dice the celery stalks and red onion half. If you prefer a milder red onion flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding to the salad.
4. Chop the Dill: Wash and dry the fresh dill. Finely chop the dill leaves. Measure out ¼ cup of chopped dill.
5. Combine Ingredients in the Bowl: Add the diced celery, diced red onion, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl with the shredded or diced chicken.
6. Add Greek Yogurt and Seasonings: Spoon the plain Greek yogurt into the bowl with the chicken and vegetables. Add the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
7. Mix Thoroughly: Using a spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated in the Greek yogurt dressing. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or Dijon mustard to your preference.
8. Prepare the Lettuce Cups: While the chicken salad is chilling (or right before serving), prepare your lettuce cups. Gently wash and dry your chosen lettuce leaves. Carefully separate the leaves, trying to keep them intact to form cups.
9. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps: Spoon a generous amount of the Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad into each lettuce cup.
10. Serve and Enjoy! Arrange the lettuce wraps on a serving platter and serve immediately. For optimal freshness, it’s best to assemble the lettuce wraps just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1 lettuce wrap (approximately ¼ of the total recipe)
• Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 30-35g

Preparation Time for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes cooking chicken, chopping vegetables, and mixing salad)
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on chicken cooking method)
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially if you use pre-cooked chicken or plan ahead by cooking the chicken in advance. The active preparation time is mostly spent chopping vegetables and mixing the salad, making it a great option for a weeknight meal or a quick lunch.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

These versatile lettuce wraps can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for different occasions:

• As a Light Lunch: The ideal portion for a satisfying and healthy lunch. Pack a few lettuce wraps for a nutritious and portable midday meal.
• As a Refreshing Dinner: Serve as a light and flavorful dinner, especially on warmer evenings. Pair with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.
• Appetizer or Party Snack: Arrange smaller lettuce wraps on a platter for a healthy and crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Picnic or Potluck Dish: Easily transportable and delicious served cold, making them perfect for picnics and potlucks. Keep the chicken salad and lettuce separate until ready to serve to prevent wilting.
• Alongside Soup or Salad: Serve a couple of lettuce wraps alongside a light soup or a larger green salad for a more substantial and balanced meal.
• With Different Lettuce Varieties: Experiment with different types of lettuce for varying textures and flavors. Butter lettuce offers a soft, delicate cup, romaine provides a sturdy crunch, and iceberg delivers maximum crispness.
• With Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their lettuce wraps. Consider sliced avocado, chopped tomatoes, sprouts, or a sprinkle of paprika.
• Deconstructed Salad Bowl: For a less structured approach, serve the chicken salad in a bowl alongside a platter of lettuce leaves and various toppings, allowing everyone to build their own lettuce wraps.

Additional Tips for Perfect Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

1. Cook Chicken to Perfection: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) but avoid overcooking it. Poaching or baking are gentle methods that help retain moisture.
2. Don’t Overdress the Salad: Start with the recommended amount of Greek yogurt and seasonings, and then add more gradually if needed. You want the salad to be creamy but not swimming in dressing.
3. Chill Before Serving (Optional but Recommended): Chilling the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and enhances the overall taste. It also makes the salad more refreshing, especially on warm days.
4. Customize with Add-Ins: Get creative with your chicken salad! Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrients. Fruits like grapes or cranberries can add a touch of sweetness. Nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans will provide added texture and healthy fats.
5. Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some finely chopped jalapeño to the chicken salad.
6. Make it Ahead: The chicken salad can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes it a great option for meal prepping. However, it is best to assemble the lettuce wraps just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
7. Lettuce Alternatives: If you don’t have lettuce or prefer a different option, you can serve the chicken salad in whole wheat pita pockets, on crackers, as a sandwich filling on whole grain bread, or even as a topping for baked sweet potatoes.
8. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner chicken salad, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or water to the Greek yogurt dressing to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, for a thicker salad, use a thicker Greek yogurt or add a bit more chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Q1: Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

A1: While this recipe is designed to be a healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based chicken salad, you can substitute mayonnaise for some or all of the Greek yogurt if you prefer. However, using Greek yogurt significantly reduces the fat and calories while adding a boost of protein and a pleasant tang. For a slightly richer flavor, you could do a half-and-half mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time?

A2: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred or dice the rotisserie chicken, ensuring you remove the skin for a leaner option if desired. This significantly reduces the preparation time, making this recipe even quicker and easier.

Q3: How long does Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad last in the refrigerator?

A3: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad will last for 3-4 days. It’s important to ensure the chicken was fresh when cooked and that the salad is stored promptly after preparation to maintain optimal freshness and food safety.

Q4: Can I freeze Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad?

A4: Freezing is not recommended for this particular recipe. Greek yogurt tends to change texture and become watery when thawed, which can affect the overall consistency and enjoyment of the chicken salad. It’s best to make and enjoy this salad fresh or within a few days of preparation.

Q5: What are good lettuce options for lettuce wraps?

A5: Several types of lettuce work well for lettuce wraps. Butter lettuce (also known as Bibb or Boston lettuce) is a popular choice for its soft, pliable leaves that easily form cups. Romaine lettuce provides a sturdier and crunchier option. Iceberg lettuce offers maximum crispness but can be less pliable. You can also use large endive leaves or even collard greens (blanched briefly to soften them) as alternative wrap options.

Q6: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A6: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as unsweetened cashew yogurt, coconut yogurt, or soy yogurt. Ensure the plant-based yogurt is plain and unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor profile.

Q7: Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

A7: Yes, absolutely! Adding nuts or seeds can enhance the texture and nutritional value of the chicken salad. Chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds would all be delicious additions. Add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Q8: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

A8: Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and can be easily adapted to be even more keto-friendly. Since it’s served in lettuce wraps instead of bread, it’s already a great low-carb option. To make it more keto-friendly, you can focus on using full-fat Greek yogurt, adding healthy fats like avocado or olive oil, and being mindful of any added ingredients that might increase carb count. The primary carbohydrates come from the vegetables and yogurt, which are relatively low in carbs compared to traditional chicken salad served on bread.

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