Healthy Chicken Cream Salad: A Nutritious Twist on a Classic

The History and Origins of Chicken Salad

Salads combining cooked chicken with a creamy dressing have long been popular portable meals and luncheon dishes. Early versions of chicken salad emerged in America and England in the late 19th century. Recipes calling for chopped chicken mixed with mayonnaise or cream sauce appeared in cookbooks by the early 1900s.

This nutritious protein-packed dish continues to be a favorite way to use up leftover chicken. Endless flavor variations keep the traditional chicken salad feeling fresh and modern.

The Rising Popularity of Healthy Chicken Cream Salad

In recent years, versions of chicken cream salad made with Greek yogurt and fresh vegetables and fruits have become popular. The focus on healthier ingredients, like swapping out mayo for yogurt, has made chicken salad an on-trend nutritious dish. Its versatility and ease of preparation continues to make it a staple.

Benefits of Chicken Cream Salad

Chicken cream salad made with yogurt and fresh produce provides:

Protein

- Chicken delivers lean protein to keep you satisfied

Healthy Fats

- From the olive oil and avocado

Fiber

- Fills you up and aids digestion

Vitamins and Minerals

- From all the fresh fruits and veggies

Making Chicken Cream Salad Healthy

To make your chicken cream salad more nutritious, use these tips:

Use Greek Yogurt

- Higher protein and less fat than mayo

Load Up on Veggies

- Spinach, bell peppers, celery, etc.

Add Fresh Fruit

- Grapes, berries, apple, mango

Include Nuts and Seeds

- Slivered almonds, sunflower seeds

Use Herbs and Spices

- Dill, parsley, paprika, ginger

Step-by-Step Recipe

Make this easy healthier chicken cream salad recipe at home:

Ingredients

• 3 cups chicken, cooked and chopped
• 1⁄2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1⁄4 cup olive oil mayo
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1⁄2 apple, diced
• 1⁄4 cup halved grapes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp mustard
• Salt, pepper, dill to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together chicken, yogurt, mayo, celery, apple, grapes.
2. Season with lemon juice, mustard, salt, pepper, and dill.
3. Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
4. Serve on bread, lettuce, or crackers. Keeps refrigerated 3-4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Get creative with how you serve up your healthy chicken cream salad:

Sandwiches

- On whole grain bread, croissants, rolls

Lettuce Wraps

- Spoon into leaves of romaine, butter lettuce or bibb

Salad Topper

- Scoop over greens, grains, roasted veggies

Stuffed

- Into avocado halves, hollowed tomatoes, pitas

Snack

- Scoop onto celery sticks or cucumber slices

Storage Tips

Store chicken cream salad properly for maximum freshness:

• Keep refrigerated in sealed container up to 4 days.
• Press plastic wrap on surface to prevent oxidation.
• Add more yogurt if it starts to dry out.

Conclusion

Chicken cream salad gets a healthy update by swapping mayo for yogurt and loading up on veggies and fruit. This nutritious classic is endlessly adaptable to suit any dietary needs. Whip up a batch for easy lunches, snacks, and meals throughout the week.

FAQs

Does chicken need to be cooked for this salad?

Yes, fully cooked, hot chicken should be used. Do not use raw or undercooked chicken.

Can the salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken salad up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate until ready to eat.

What proteins can sub for the chicken?

Turkey, ham, tuna, chickpeas, or tofu can all be used instead of chicken.

Is plain Greek yogurt better than flavored?

Plain Greek yogurt is preferable so you can control flavoring and sweetness.

Does the salad need lemon juice?

The acidity brightens the flavor but you can leave it out if you prefer.

Packed with protein, fiber and fresh flavor, this lighter chicken cream salad makes an easy, nutritious meal any time of day.