This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy tzatziki dressing. It’s cool, tasty, and perfect for a warm day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Grilled, rotisserie, or roasted chicken works well. For a meat-free option, try chickpeas or tofu instead!
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient gives a creamy texture and tangy taste. If you’re lactose intolerant, choose dairy-free yogurt or a thick coconut yogurt for a similar texture.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crispness. If you can’t find cucumbers, zucchini or even diced bell peppers can offer a nice crunch in the salad.
Dill: Fresh dill provides a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried, but cut it down to about one-third since it’s stronger. Thyme or parsley can also work as alternatives.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil is a great option!
How Do I Make the Perfect Tzatziki Dressing?
The tzatziki dressing is the star of this salad, and making it right is key! The goal is to achieve a creamy, well-balanced mix that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Start by draining excess moisture from the diced cucumber. You can sprinkle some salt over it and let it sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out the water.
- In a bowl, blend the Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and well-mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Once your tzatziki is ready, gently fold in the shredded chicken, ensuring that every piece is covered with that delightful dressing.
How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Whole wheat pita bread or lettuce leaves for serving
For the Tzatziki Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Just mix up the dressing, combine it with the chicken, and layer it with fresh vegetables. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, finely diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended into a smooth dressing.
2. Combine with Chicken:
Add the shredded chicken into the bowl with the tzatziki dressing. Stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated in that tasty dressing. This is what gives the salad its delicious flavor!
3. Assemble the Salad:
Now it’s time to put your salad together! If you’re using pita bread, cut it in half and open the pockets. Fill each pocket with the tzatziki chicken salad. If you prefer lettuce leaves, just scoop some of the salad onto the leaves.
4. Add Fresh Vegetables:
Top your chicken salad with sliced tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also makes it look colorful and inviting.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad immediately, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors! Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavorful richness to your salad. Just shred the meat and mix it into the tzatziki dressing as directed. Make sure to remove any skin and bones before adding the chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt, but keep in mind that it will be slightly runnier. If you’re looking for a lactose-free option, try using a dairy-free yogurt made from coconut or almond milk. Just ensure it’s unflavored and unsweetened for the best taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve assembled it with pita or lettuce, it’s best to keep the salad separate from the bread or leaves to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the chicken for an extra crunch and flavor boost!
