Save Brighten up your meal routine with this refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines convenience with vibrant flavors. Featuring tender shredded rotisserie chicken tossed in a creamy, homemade tzatziki sauce, this salad is packed with crisp cucumbers, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill. It is an ideal choice for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.
Save This recipe transforms standard chicken salad into something extraordinary by utilizing the classic Greek flavors of garlic and dill. The combination of full-fat Greek yogurt and freshly squeezed lemon juice creates a rich yet tangy dressing that perfectly coats the shredded chicken and crisp red onions.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skinless)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium cucumber, grated
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional Add-Ons:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olives (Kalamata or green), sliced
- 1 small avocado, diced
- Spinach or mixed greens, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Cucumber
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- 2. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- 3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken. Pour the tzatziki sauce over the chicken and gently fold until evenly coated. Add diced red onion and any optional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, feta, olives, or avocado. Mix gently to combine.
- 4. Chill
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 5. Serve
- Serve chilled over a bed of spinach or mixed greens, or enjoy as is.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure your salad has the best consistency, it is crucial to squeeze as much water as possible out of the grated cucumber. For an even deeper flavor profile, consider marinating the shredded chicken briefly in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil before folding it into the yogurt sauce. Using a box grater makes the cucumber preparation quick and uniform.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this recipe by substituting fresh mint for the dill, or using both for a more complex herb profile. If you prefer a lighter version, low-fat Greek yogurt can be used instead of full-fat. For those who enjoy extra texture, adding diced avocado or salty feta cheese provides a wonderful contrast to the crisp vegetables.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Tzatziki Chicken Salad chilled over a fresh bed of spinach or mixed greens for a traditional salad experience. It also tastes delicious when stuffed into warm pita pockets or used as a filling for crisp lettuce wraps. If you have leftovers, they keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Save This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a meal that is both healthy and indulgent. With its creamy texture and zesty finish, it is a versatile dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table.
Kitchen Questions
- → What's the secret to a creamy tzatziki?
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the richest texture. Also, ensure you squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber to prevent a watery sauce.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish benefits from chilling for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can even make it a few hours ahead, or the day before, for optimal taste.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
It's delicious served over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. For a heartier meal, try it in pita pockets, lettuce wraps, or as a side with grilled bread.
- → Are there ingredient substitutions I can make?
Yes, you can substitute fresh mint for dill, or use both for a different herb profile. For the chicken, any cooked, shredded poultry works, but rotisserie adds convenience.
- → How should I store any leftovers?
Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavors often deepen beautifully overnight.