This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender rotisserie chicken with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is versatile enough to be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber, finely grated
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cooked rotisserie chicken
- 1 red onion, diced
Directions
- Prepare Cucumber:
- Wrap the grated cucumber in a paper towel or tea towel and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well-blended.
- Add Chicken and Onion:
- Shred the rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and diced red onion to the prepared sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the tzatziki chicken salad on pita bread with fresh sliced tomato and red onion, on crackers, with pita chips, or over a bed of lettuce. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4. The total preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Variations
- Herb Additions: Mix in other fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary.
10 FAQs
- Can I use yogurt other than Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular plain yogurt, but the texture may be thinner. - What can I substitute for dill?
Fresh parsley or mint can be used as an alternative herb. - How can I make this salad dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the tzatziki sauce. - Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for using up leftover cooked chicken. - Is it necessary to squeeze the cucumber?
Yes, removing excess moisture helps prevent the salad from becoming watery. - Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving. - What type of bread works best for serving?
Pita bread, naan, or any flatbread pairs well with this salad. - Can I add other proteins?
Yes, shredded turkey or canned tuna can be good alternatives. - What if I don’t have a rotisserie chicken?
You can cook and shred your own chicken breast for this recipe. - How spicy is this salad?
The salad itself is not spicy, but you can add spicy elements if desired.
Conclusion
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a delightful and healthy option that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. With its creamy tzatziki dressing and tender chicken, it makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it on its own, or as a filling in sandwiches and wraps for a delicious twist!