High Protein Chicken Salad: The Ultimate Mayo-Free Healthy Lunch
Ditch the heavy mayo for this High Protein Chicken Salad! Creamy, fresh, and perfect for your weekly meal prep and healthy reset.
Too hot to turn on the oven? This High Protein Chicken Salad is your new summer obsession.
It is creamy, fresh, and ready to fuel your busiest days. You get all the flavor without any of the heavy mayo guilt. It is the perfect healthy reset you have been looking for.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total game-changer for your weekly routine. It is ready in 35 minutes and stays fresh for days. You get a massive protein boost that actually keeps you full.
It is incredibly budget-friendly since it uses simple pantry staples. Your meal prep just got a major upgrade. This is restaurant-quality flavor made right in your own kitchen.
How It Comes Together
Making this salad is as easy as it gets. You poach the chicken to keep it juicy and tender. Then, you just whisk, chop, and fold everything together.
Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. There are no complicated techniques or fancy tools required. It is stress-free cooking at its absolute best.
Simple Ingredients
We are using fresh, seasonal produce and lean protein for the best results.
- 500g skinless, boneless chicken breast
- 150g non-fat Greek yogurt
- 50g finely diced celery
- 30g finely diced red onion
- 15ml fresh lemon juice
- 5g Dijon mustard
- 2g sea salt
- 1g cracked black pepper
- 10g chopped fresh dill
Step-by-Step
- Poach chicken breasts in simmering water for 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74 degrees Celsius.
- Remove chicken from liquid and allow to cool completely before shredding or dicing into 1cm cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the emulsion is smooth.
- Incorporate the cooled chicken, diced celery, red onion, and chopped dill into the dressing mixture.
- Fold ingredients together with a spatula until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate the assembly for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chilled for the ultimate refreshing lunch. It tastes incredible inside a crisp lettuce wrap or on whole-grain toast. You can even scoop it up with cucumber slices.
Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup. It is the perfect portable meal for office lunches. Your coworkers will definitely ask for the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep your salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to four days. Give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. This recipe is not suitable for freezing.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, zingy flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken or it will become dry.
- Dice your vegetables very small for the best texture.
- Let it chill for 30 minutes to maximize the flavor.
- Fresh dill is a must for that signature herb taste.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfect.
- Whisk the dressing thoroughly before adding the chicken.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add halved grapes for a sweet, juicy crunch.
- Swap the dill for fresh parsley or chives.
- Mix in some chopped walnuts for extra healthy fats.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder for more depth.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut for this recipe.
Is Greek yogurt a good sub for mayo?
Absolutely, it provides a creamy texture with way more protein.
How long does this last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.
You are going to love how easy and delicious this is! Tag me when you make it!
— Jasmine

Ingredients
Method
- Poach chicken breasts in simmering water for 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74 degrees Celsius.
- Remove chicken from liquid and allow to cool completely before shredding or dicing into 1cm cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the emulsion is smooth.
- Incorporate the cooled chicken, diced celery, red onion, and chopped dill into the dressing mixture.
- Fold ingredients together with a spatula until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate the assembly for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
