This refreshing chicken salad is made with juicy rotisserie chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy cucumbers, and a burst of dill. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for any meal!
I love how light and tasty this salad is—great for warm days! Pair it with some pita bread, and you have a tasty lunch or snack. Trust me, you won’t want to stop eating it! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a great time-saver and adds flavor. If you prefer, you can use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Cucumber: Fresh crunch is key! If you don’t have cucumbers, try bell peppers or grated zucchini for a different texture.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base of your dressing, providing creaminess without the extra calories of mayonnaise. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based yogurt, like coconut or almond yogurt. Both will add a nice touch!
Dill: Fresh dill packs in more flavor than dried, but you can easily swap in dried dill if needed. Other herbs like parsley or chives also work well if you want to mix it up.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, but you can substitute it with vinegar (like apple cider) if you run out of lemon. It will still add a nice tang!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Flavored Just Right?
Tuning the flavor of your chicken salad is all about balancing the ingredients. Start by adding the yogurt mixture to the chicken and veggies. Stir gently to avoid breaking down the chicken too much.
- Taste it after mixing; this is your chance to adjust. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preferences.
- If you want more brightness, consider squeezing in a bit more lemon or even a splash of vinegar.
- Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Don’t skip this step if you can!
Delicious Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped (fresh or dried)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s a quick and refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced cucumber, diced celery, and if you like a bit more kick, toss in the chopped red onion. Give everything a good stir so it’s well combined.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, take the plain Greek yogurt and mix it with the chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is nicely blended and creamy.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Now, pour the yogurt dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, making sure each piece of chicken and veggie is coated in that delicious yogurt dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a taste and see if it needs a little more salt, pepper, or even a bit more lemon juice to brighten it up. Toss everything together again after any adjustments.
5. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or if you prefer, cover it and place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy it on its own, as a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce for a tasty treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Yogurt?
Absolutely! While plain Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness and tangy flavor, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut yogurt. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, just give it a good stir before serving again!
What Can I Substitute for Dill?
If you don’t have dill, you can use other fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, or tarragon. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose one that you enjoy. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to the herb’s potency.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the total volume similar for a balanced salad.
