Description
This Spiced Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic chicken salad. Combining the creaminess of Greek yogurt with warm spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin, this recipe offers a unique Mediterranean-inspired taste. With the addition of dried cherries, fresh herbs, and toasted pecans, it provides a delightful balance of textures and flavors, perfect for a light lunch served on its own, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad Base
- 2 cups (12 ounces) diced cooked chicken breast (rotisserie or shredded)
- ½ cup whole milk Greek yogurt (or 2% or nonfat Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
Add-ins
- ½ cup dried cherries (or cranberries)
- ⅓ cup diced green onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped toasted pecans (or toasted sliced almonds)
Instructions
- Prepare the yogurt mixture: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini if using, Dijon mustard, ground turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the chicken and mix-ins: Fold in the diced cooked chicken breast, dried cherries, diced green onion, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh cilantro, and toasted pecans gently. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Sample the salad and add additional salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for heat if desired. Mix again to incorporate any adjustments.
- Serve: The chicken salad can be served immediately as is, spooned into crisp lettuce cups, or used as a filling for sandwiches or buns. Ideal for a light and nutritious meal.
Notes
- Tahini adds a rich, nutty flavor but can be omitted if unavailable or if you prefer a lighter salad.
- If you prefer less sweetness, substitute dried cherries with less sugary dried cranberries or omit entirely.
- For a crunchier texture, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding.
- This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time or grill your own chicken breast for a smoky flavor.
