We asked 3 chefs to name the best Greek yogurt brand—they all picked the same one

You can find it at (just about) every grocery store.

Key Takeaways

• A good Greek yogurt should have a short ingredient list with milk and live cultures, no added sugar in plain varieties, and at least 15 grams of protein per serving.
• When judging quality, look for a yogurt that is thick, creamy, and pleasantly tangy rather than watery, overly sweet, or unnaturally stiff.
• All three chefs named Chobani as the best grocery-store pick because it is dependable, widely available, and versatile enough for everything from sauces and marinades to baking and parfaits.

Known for its creamy texture and delicious tang, Greek yogurt is a staple in the refrigerator. It also offers impressive health benefits, making it a worthwhile addition to your rotation. With that in mind, it’s worth buying a quality brand of Greek yogurt, especially if you eat it every day. But what does that entail, anyway? We asked three chefs for tips on finding a solid Greek yogurt, along with their recommendations for the best brands you can find in grocery stores.

Meet Our Expert

• Isaac Bernal Carbajo, executive chef of the Representation of Spain to the United Nations with over 25 years of culinary experience
• Erin Clarke, a cookbook author and founder of Well Plated 
• Morgan Lewis, executive chef at Halls Catch in Nashville, Tennessee

What to Look for When Buying Greek Yogurt

According to all three chefs we interviewed, finding good Greek yogurt starts by checking the ingredient list. It should be relatively short and include milk and live cultures, and little else, according to executive chef Isaac Bernal Carbajo. “If you cannot pronounce many of [the ingredients], or if the list is super long, put it back,” advises cookbook author Erin Clarke.

While you’re at it, check the sugar and protein content. Although dairy has naturally occurring sugar, if you’re purchasing plain Greek yogurt, make sure it has zero added sugars, Clarke notes. As for protein? Good Greek yogurt should have at least 15 grams per serving, Clarke adds.

If you’ve already bought Greek yogurt and you’re trying to discern its quality, there are some things you can consider. “A quality Greek yogurt should feel naturally creamy, dense, and clean on the palate, not artificially thickened or overly sweet,” Carbajo says. Similarly, executive chef Morgan Lewis, looks for Greek yogurt with a clean, tangy flavor that works in both savory and sweet dishes.

Texturally, Greek yogurt should have some body to it. “If it’s watery or it slides easily off your spoon, you’re not getting what you [paid] for,” says Clarke.

The Best Grocery Store Greek Yogurt, According to Chefs

When we asked the chefs to share their favorite Greek yogurt brands, Chobani was mentioned across the board. 

“Chobani is one of my favorites because it’s thick, creamy, and consistently reliable in recipes,” shares Lewis. Clarke also calls out its clean and thick flavor, noting that it has a fresh, pleasant tang that a lot of other brands miss. 

The availability of Chobani also gets two thumbs up from the chefs. “[It’s] available almost everywhere, which makes it an easy, reliable choice when I’m shopping at any grocery store,” says Clarke. Carbajo agrees, adding: “It’s usually easy for the average consumer to find without sacrificing too much texture or dairy character.”

Ways to Use Greek Yogurt

According to Lewis, Chobani works well in sauces, marinades, dips, desserts, or simply on its own.

Looking for ways to use Greek yogurt, Chobani or otherwise? Here are some expert-approved ideas:

• As a sour cream substitute: Use Greek yogurt like you would sour cream, like on top of tacos or stirred into chili, notes Clarke.
• In baked goods: “It makes baked goods incredibly moist,” says Clarke.
• As a side sauce: Clarke enjoys mixing Greek yogurt with Dijon mustard or pesto, then serving a big spoonful alongside roasted chicken or vegetables. 
• In frozen desserts: Lewis uses Greek yogurt in frozen desserts; try it in a yogurt bark or homemade ice pops.
• In marinades: Greek yogurt will add moisture and flavor to your favorite meats, such as chicken or fish.
• In salad dressings: Greek yogurt makes an excellent base for creamy salad dressings, Clarke notes.
• In parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt and fruits for a healthy and filling snack.

Read the original article on Real Simple