Looking for a light, healthy, and delicious lunch or dinner option? Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups are the perfect solution. This dish combines tender chicken with creamy, tangy Greek yogurt, crunchy vegetables, and a burst of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in crispy lettuce leaves. It’s a protein-packed, refreshing meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make.
Ideal for meal prep, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, this recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic chicken salad with a healthier twist.
1. Why You’ll Love Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
Here’s why this dish is a winner:
- Healthy and Light: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise cuts down on calories and adds extra protein, while the lettuce cups provide a low-carb alternative to bread.
- Full of Flavor: The tangy yogurt, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs create a satisfying combination that’s both refreshing and delicious.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal fast.
- Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings, veggies, and herbs to suit your taste, or even swap the chicken for tuna or turkey.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: This chicken salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
This recipe uses wholesome ingredients for a light, delicious meal:
For the Chicken Salad:
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works well)
- Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup (plain, unsweetened)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (for tang)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
- Celery: 1/2 cup, finely diced (adds crunch)
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced (adds sharpness)
- Red Grapes or Apple: 1/2 cup, chopped (optional, for a sweet contrast)
- Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon, chopped (parsley, dill, or chives)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
For the Lettuce Cups:
- Lettuce Leaves: 8-10 large leaves (romaine or butter lettuce work best for their size and structure)
Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled Feta Cheese: For a Mediterranean touch
- Almonds or Walnuts: For extra crunch
- Sliced Avocado: For creaminess
- Hot Sauce or Salsa: For a kick of spice
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the yogurt mixture.
- Add the diced celery, red onion, and chopped grapes or apple (if using). Stir again until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Season the chicken salad with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped fresh herbs, and mix everything together.
2. Prepare the Lettuce Cups:
- Carefully separate the lettuce leaves, being gentle so they don’t tear. You want whole, sturdy leaves that can hold the chicken salad filling.
- Wash and dry the lettuce leaves well, removing any excess water.
3. Assemble the Lettuce Cups:
- Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto each lettuce leaf. Don’t overstuff the leaves, as they can tear easily.
- Add any optional toppings, like crumbled feta, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
4. Serve:
- Serve the chicken salad-filled lettuce cups immediately, or store the chicken salad in the fridge for up to 3 days and assemble the wraps when ready to eat.
4. Tips for the Best Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, as it’s already cooked and ready to go. Just shred or chop it and you’re all set.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Add extra mustard for more tang, or a pinch of garlic powder for a little extra depth.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt (like coconut yogurt) or avocado in place of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives add a burst of flavor to the chicken salad. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work too.
- Add More Crunch: For extra crunch, try adding chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, or even a few radishes to the chicken salad.
5. Serving Ideas for Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
These wraps are great on their own, but here are some ideas to complement your meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the chicken salad cups.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or broccoli for a filling and nutrient-packed meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus, berries, and melon adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
- Whole Grain Chips: A side of baked whole grain chips or gluten-free crackers provides crunch and texture.
6. Nutritional Benefits
These Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups offer a variety of health benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken and Greek yogurt are excellent sources of protein, which helps to build and repair tissues.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil (if used) add healthy fats that support heart health.
- Fiber: The celery, onion, and lettuce provide fiber, which aids digestion and promotes fullness.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: The fresh vegetables and herbs are packed with vitamins like vitamin A, C, and K, and the grapes or apples add a dose of antioxidants.
FAQs
- Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Canned chicken is a convenient option. Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before using it in the salad. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat. - Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, any sturdy leafy green will work, but Romaine and Butter lettuce are the best options for holding the chicken salad. - Can I add other vegetables to the chicken salad?
Absolutely! You can add diced cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition. - Can I make this recipe without Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative, or use mashed avocado for a creamy texture. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or sliced jalapeños to the chicken salad to kick up the heat. - Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, if you prefer the classic chicken salad taste, you can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise. - Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, these lettuce cups are filling enough to be served as a light main course, especially when paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables. - Can I add nuts to the chicken salad?
Yes! Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add a great crunch and healthy fats to the salad. - How do I store leftover chicken salad?
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate until you’re ready to assemble.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups are a healthy, delicious, and refreshing meal that’s quick to make and full of flavor. With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, they’re a great choice for a light lunch, dinner, or snack. Whether you make it for yourself or serve it at your next gathering, these wraps are sure to be a hit!