This refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, combining vibrant ingredients with a creamy tzatziki dressing that adds a delightful touch.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley. - Dress the Salad:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the salad and toss gently to combine. - Make the Tzatziki:
In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper until well blended. - Serve:
Plate the salad and top with a generous dollop of tzatziki before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 and requires just 15 minutes of prep time, with no cooking needed.
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- Herb Options: Swap parsley for fresh mint for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Alternatives: Use grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tzatziki can also be kept separately to maintain freshness.
10 FAQs
- Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great for convenience. - Is there a dairy-free option for tzatziki?
You can use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki. - What can I serve with this salad?
Pita bread or rice can complement this salad well. - Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. - What if I don’t like olives?
You can omit them or substitute with artichoke hearts. - Can I add grains to the salad?
Quinoa or couscous can be a nice addition for extra texture. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. - Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully cooked before using. - What other herbs can I use?
Fresh oregano or basil would work well too. - How long will the tzatziki last?
It can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Creamy Tzatziki is a versatile dish that combines fresh flavors and textures. It’s perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or gatherings. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!
PrintMediterranean Chicken Salad with Creamy Tzatziki
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
Enjoy a refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Salad topped with a creamy tzatziki sauce. This vibrant dish is packed with flavors and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss to combine.
- For the tzatziki, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Serve the salad with a generous dollop of tzatziki on top.
Notes
For added flavor, let the tzatziki chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes