If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with fresh, creamy, and tangy flavors, this Tzatziki Chicken Salad is an absolute must-try. Combining tender grilled chicken with homemade tzatziki sauce, crisp cucumbers, and fresh herbs, this salad offers a perfect balance of Mediterranean goodness. Whether served in a sandwich, a roll, or over a bed of greens, it’s a versatile dish that’s light yet satisfying—ideal for a healthy lunch or a refreshing dinner.
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What is Tzatziki Chicken Salad? A Greek Salad with a Twist
Tzatziki sauce, a classic Greek condiment made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, adds a creamy and tangy twist to the traditional chicken salad. When mixed with juicy chunks of chicken and fresh veggies, it creates a salad that’s rich in flavor yet wonderfully refreshing. This recipe takes inspiration from Greek cuisine, combining wholesome ingredients for a salad that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients for the Best Tzatziki Chicken Salad
To make this vibrant salad, you’ll need:
- 500g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mixed greens or romaine lettuce, chopped
- Optional: Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Making Tzatziki Chicken Salad
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for mixing tzatziki sauce
- Sharp knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Large salad bowl
Step-by-Step Preparation of Tzatziki Chicken Salad
- Make the tzatziki sauce: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the chicken: If using leftover cooked chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh, grill or roast the chicken breast until cooked through and then chop.
- Combine the salad: In a large bowl, toss the chicken, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mixed greens. Pour the chilled tzatziki sauce over the top and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Garnish and serve: Add optional Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flair. Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own as a light meal.
Tips and Tricks for Creamy and Flavorful Chicken Salad
- Use thick Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy tzatziki base.
- Drain the cucumber well before mixing to avoid a watery sauce.
- Letting the tzatziki sauce chill enhances the garlic and herb flavors.
- Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be added for extra freshness.
- Adjust lemon juice and garlic to taste for the perfect tang.
Variations and Substitutions for Tzatziki Chicken Salad
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a vegan yogurt alternative.
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
- Add diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Use low-fat yogurt for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions: Rolls, Sandwiches, and More
Tzatziki chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Stuff it inside pita pockets or wraps for a portable meal. Serve it over quinoa or couscous for a hearty salad bowl. It also works perfectly on crusty bread rolls or toasted sandwich buns. Pair it with fresh fruit or a simple vegetable side salad for a balanced meal.
Storing Leftovers: Keeping Your Chicken Salad Fresh
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh veggies and yogurt, it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe to maintain texture and flavor. Stir gently before serving leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, making the sauce a few hours ahead allows the flavors to develop fully.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
Dried dill can be used in a pinch, but fresh dill gives the best flavor.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but keep the tzatziki sauce separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze tzatziki chicken salad?
It’s best served fresh; freezing may affect texture, especially of the yogurt and veggies.
Why You Should Try This Amazing Salad Recipe Today!
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and fresh—bringing a taste of Greece right to your table. Easy to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, this salad will impress with its delicious simplicity. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, homemade Greek-inspired dish!
PrintTzatziki Chicken Salad : A Refreshing Delight
- Total Time: 45
Description
If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with fresh, creamy, and tangy flavors, this Tzatziki Chicken Salad is an absolute must-try.
Ingredients
- 500g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mixed greens or romaine lettuce, chopped
- Optional: Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Make the tzatziki sauce: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the chicken: If using leftover cooked chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh, grill or roast the chicken breast until cooked through and then chop.
- Combine the salad: In a large bowl, toss the chicken, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mixed greens. Pour the chilled tzatziki sauce over the top and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Garnish and serve: Add optional Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flair. Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own as a light meal.
Notes
Use thick Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy tzatziki base. Drain the cucumber well before mixing to avoid a watery sauce. Letting the tzatziki sauce chill enhances the garlic and herb flavors. Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be added for extra freshness. Adjust lemon juice and garlic to taste for the perfect tang.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Tzatziki Chicken Salad