Here’s a healthy and weight-loss-friendly chicken salad recipe that’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients while staying light on calories. This version uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and incorporates fresh veggies for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Healthy Chicken Salad for Weight Loss
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (grilled or baked, no skin)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 small apple, diced (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or any fresh herb like dill)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Use pre-cooked chicken breast or poach it by simmering chicken in water for 10-12 minutes until cooked through. Shred or dice into small pieces.
- Mix the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Combine Ingredients
- Add the shredded chicken, celery, cucumber, red onion, apple, and parsley to the bowl. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes (optional) to let the flavors blend. Serve immediately or store for later.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
- Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps to keep it low-carb.
- Scoop it into a halved avocado for healthy fats and added creaminess.
- Enjoy it as a topping for whole-grain crackers or cucumber slices for a light snack.
Why It’s Great for Weight Loss
- High Protein: Chicken breast and Greek yogurt keep you full longer, reducing cravings.
- Low Calorie: Greek yogurt replaces mayonnaise, cutting down on unhealthy fats.
- Nutrient-Rich: Fresh veggies and apple add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Balanced Flavor: The lemon juice, mustard, and parsley provide freshness without extra calories.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving, Makes 3 Servings)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 3g
This weight-loss-friendly chicken salad is flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for meal prepping. Let me know if you need more healthy variations!
