If you’re like me and always on the hunt for a quick, flavorful lunch that feels fancy but is totally doable on a Monday, this Oregano Chicken Salad is about to become your go-to recipe.
The freshness of my Oregano Chicken Salad is something I am in love with. There is a delightful interplay of flavors—savory tastes and delicious smells.
Every time I open my refrigerator and see a mason jar filled with this salad, I get excited. This is not a regular chicken salad; it is something special.
The essence of Jerry’s County Fair—tender roasted chicken infused with the flavors of lemon, dill, and garlic—forms the base of the salad. When I eat it, I can barely believe it is so healthfully good for me.
Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken Breast: High in protein, low in fat, energy-boosting.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess, richness; moderate in healthy fats.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy texture, probiotic-rich, source of protein.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides tang, depth; low-calorie flavor enhancer.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Bright acidity, vitamin C boost, refreshing taste.
- Fresh Oregano: Herbal aroma, source of antioxidants, flavor depth.
- Red Onion: Adds crunch and zing, contains antioxidants, flavorful.
- Celery: Crunchy texture, low-calorie, contains fiber.
Ingredient Quantities
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make this
1. In a big mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, fresh oregano, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the chopped cooked chicken breast to the bowl, and gently stir until the chicken is well coated with the dressing.
3. Incorporate the very finely chopped red onion and the diced celery into the chicken mixture.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste to the salad, adjusting as necessary to hit the flavor profile you prefer.
5. Plastic wrap can be used to cover the mixing bowl. Alternatively, the salad can be stored in an airtight container.
6. Chill the salad for a minimum of 30 minutes so that the flavors can come together.
7. Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Chill and then serve by itself, as part of a sandwich, or on top of a fresh green salad.
9. If you wish, you can also add some fresh oregano for garnish.
10. Savor this lovely and herby Oregano Chicken Salad!
Equipment Needed
1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Plastic wrap or airtight container
7. Refrigerator
FAQ
- Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?Definitely, rotisserie chicken is excellent in this recipe. Just make sure to take off the skin prior to dicing.
- Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?Absolutely! Using extra Greek yogurt or avocado is a great way to get some healthy fats into your diet if you’re doing this.
- How long will the chicken salad last in the refrigerator?If it is kept in an airtight container, then it should keep for around 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?Sure, however, the flavor of fresh oregano is more robust and vivid. If all you have is dried oregano, you may want to slightly increase the amount you use.
- Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?Indeed, it is a low carbohydrate offering, making it appropriate for a low-carb diet, particularly if you forgo serving it with bread.
- What can I serve with oregano chicken salad?It goes well with green leafy salads, in a wrap, or on a whole grain bread slice.
- Can I freeze the chicken salad?Freezing is not recommended because of the mayonnaise and yogurt; they may separate and lose texture when thawed.
Oregano Chicken Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations
For mayonnaise, substitute an equal amount of sour cream for a tangy twist.
If regular plain yogurt is unavailable, you can use Greek yogurt in its place.
Instead of Dijon mustard, use honey mustard for a flavor that is slightly sweeter.
You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice if you want to accent the dish with a different citrus flavor.
In the absence of fresh oregano, use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Pro Tips
1. Enhance Texture: Toast some nuts, such as chopped almonds or walnuts, and add them to the salad for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
2. Flavor Infusion: Marinate the cooked chicken breast in a little lemon juice and olive oil with a pinch of oregano for at least 30 minutes before chopping to boost its flavor.
3. Creamier Consistency: Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a healthier, creamier texture with added nutrients.
4. Herb Variations: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to complement or enhance the oregano depending on the flavor profile you prefer.
5. Versatile Serving: For a refreshing twist, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or stuff it into a hollowed-out tomato for an elegant presentation.
Oregano Chicken Salad Recipe
My favorite Oregano Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Plastic wrap or airtight container
7. Refrigerator
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a big mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, fresh oregano, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the chopped cooked chicken breast to the bowl, and gently stir until the chicken is well coated with the dressing.
3. Incorporate the very finely chopped red onion and the diced celery into the chicken mixture.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste to the salad, adjusting as necessary to hit the flavor profile you prefer.
5. Plastic wrap can be used to cover the mixing bowl. Alternatively, the salad can be stored in an airtight container.
6. Chill the salad for a minimum of 30 minutes so that the flavors can come together.
7. Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Chill and then serve by itself, as part of a sandwich, or on top of a fresh green salad.
9. If you wish, you can also add some fresh oregano for garnish.
10. Savor this lovely and herby Oregano Chicken Salad!