Best Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Craving a fresh, flavorful meal that is also incredibly easy to make? Our Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a delicious solution! This Mediterranean-inspired dish transforms classic chicken salad with the vibrant flavors of a Greek yogurt base, crisp cucumber, fresh dill, and zesty lemon. It’s a healthy, satisfying, and wonderfully versatile option perfect for busy parents and beginners looking for a quick culinary win.

Why You’ll Love This Tzatziki Chicken Salad

You’ll find endless reasons to adore this incredible Tzatziki Chicken Salad. It offers a delightful twist on a classic, making mealtime exciting again.

• Refreshing and Healthy: Made with Greek yogurt, it’s lighter than traditional mayo-based salads. This makes it a perfect choice for a fresh lunch or dinner.
  
• Protein-Packed: Loaded with chicken and Greek yogurt, this salad keeps you feeling full and satisfied. It supports a healthy and active lifestyle.
  
• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up this amazing Greek yogurt chicken salad in under 15 minutes, especially with pre-cooked chicken. It’s ideal for busy weeknights.
  
• Excellent for Meal Prep: Prepare a batch at the start of the week for easy grab-and-go lunches. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
  
• Flavorful Mediterranean Twist: Enjoy the bright, zesty, and herbaceous notes of authentic tzatziki in every bite. It elevates simple chicken salad to a gourmet experience.
  
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it in various ways, from sandwiches to lettuce wraps, satisfying everyone at your table. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family meal.

Ingredients

Making this fresh Tzatziki Chicken Salad starts with simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find. Each component adds to the incredible flavor and texture.

For the Tzatziki Dressing:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Choose full-fat for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated English cucumber: Squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent a watery dressing.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, essential tang that balances the flavors.
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and grated: Provides a pungent, aromatic base for the dressing.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill: This signature herb delivers a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Contributes additional freshness and a vibrant green color.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth.

For the Salad:

• 4 cups cooked chicken: Chopped or shredded; this is the hearty base of your salad.
• 1 cup diced cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and extra moisture to the mix.
• 1/2 cup diced celery: Provides a classic, crisp texture and mild flavor.
• 1/2 cup diced red onion: Offers a mild sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings a delightful salty, tangy creaminess.

Notes & Substitutions

• Chicken: Feel free to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience. Leftover roasted or freshly poached chicken also works perfectly.
  
• Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt creates the most luxurious dressing. You can use low-fat, but the texture might be slightly thinner.
  
• Cucumber: Absolutely essential to squeeze out the liquid from the grated cucumber. This step prevents your chicken salad from becoming watery.
  
• Herbs: Always use fresh dill and parsley for the best, most vibrant flavor profile. Dried herbs won’t give you the same bright result.
  
• Lemon: Adjust the amount of fresh lemon juice to your personal taste. Some prefer more zest, others less.
  
• Feta: While optional, crumbled feta cheese truly elevates the Mediterranean chicken salad. It adds a delicious salty kick.
  
• Other Veggies: Get creative! Stir in finely diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or Kalamata olives for extra color and flavor.

Equipment

Gathering your tools before you start makes the process smooth and enjoyable. You likely have all these items already in your kitchen.

• Large mixing bowl: For combining all your salad ingredients.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for preparing the tzatziki dressing separately.
• Grater: To finely grate your cucumber and garlic cloves.
• Sharp knife: Essential for efficiently chopping your chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for all your chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for the best results.
• Spatula or spoon: For mixing ingredients thoroughly and gently.

Instructions

Creating this simple and delicious Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a breeze. Follow these easy steps for a perfect meal every time.

1. Prepare Tzatziki Base: Grab your small mixing bowl. Add the plain Greek yogurt, finely grated English cucumber (remember to squeeze out the excess moisture!), fresh lemon juice, and grated garlic cloves. Next, gently stir in the chopped fresh dill and chopped fresh parsley. Finally, season the mixture with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until all the ingredients are fully blended and the dressing looks creamy. Set this aside.
   
2. Assemble the Salad: Take your large mixing bowl. Add the cooked chicken, which you should have already chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces. Now, toss in the diced cucumber, diced celery, and diced red onion. These fresh vegetables add wonderful texture and flavor. After that, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. The feta provides a salty, tangy counterpoint that truly enhances the Mediterranean character of the salad.
   
3. Combine and Mix: Pour the prepared tzatziki dressing from the small bowl over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using your spatula or spoon, gently mix all the ingredients together. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to coat everything evenly without mashing the chicken or vegetables too much. Ensure the dressing is well distributed throughout the Tzatziki Chicken Salad.
   
4. Adjust Seasoning: Now is the time to taste your chicken salad. Take a small spoonful and assess the flavors. Does it need more brightness? Add a little extra fresh lemon juice. Could it use more seasoning? Sprinkle in a touch more sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you love herbs, feel free to add another sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
   
5. Chill Before Serving: For the best possible flavor and texture, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Tzatziki Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the delicious Mediterranean flavors to meld and deepen. Serving it chilled also enhances its refreshing qualities. Give it a quick stir just before you serve to redistribute any dressing that might have settled.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Make your Tzatziki Chicken Salad perfect every time with these helpful tips and simple fixes. Achieving the ideal texture and flavor is easier than you think.

• Thick Greek Yogurt is Key: Always use a good quality, thick Greek yogurt. This prevents your salad from becoming watery and keeps it delightfully creamy.
• Squeeze Cucumber Well: This is non-negotiable! Excess moisture from the grated cucumber will thin out your dressing and make the salad soggy. Use a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to press out as much liquid as possible.
  
• Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Save time and add extra flavor by using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred or chop it, and you’re halfway there.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the chilling step. A minimum of 30 minutes in the fridge allows the flavors to truly develop and meld, making your Mediterranean chicken salad even more delicious.
  
• Add Crunch: The diced celery and cucumber are crucial for texture. They provide a satisfying crispness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
  
• Achieve Creaminess: For the richest, most luxurious texture, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt. It creates a more indulgent and satisfying tzatziki dressing.
  
• Flavor Balance: Always taste and adjust your seasonings. Lemon brightens, salt enhances, and pepper adds depth. Adjust herbs to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
  
• Prevent Over-mixing: Gently fold the ingredients together. Aggressive mixing can break down the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile Tzatziki Chicken Salad is perfect for any occasion. From lunch to dinner, you’ll love its adaptability.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pita Power: Scoop generous amounts into warm pita bread pockets or serve alongside pita chips for dipping.
• Lettuce Wraps: Create healthy, low-carb wraps using large, crisp lettuce cups like butter or romaine.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Spread it on your favorite bread, bagels, or tortillas for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Salad Topper: Serve it over a bed of fresh mixed greens for a complete and wholesome main course salad.
• Veggie Dippers: Offer fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber slices for a healthy dipping option.
• Garnish for Impact: Top with extra crumbled feta, sliced Kalamata olives, chopped cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of fresh mint or oregano.

Storage Instructions:

• Store any leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for optimal freshness and safety.
• It stays delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Give it a good stir before each serving, as the dressing can settle slightly.

Flavor Variations:

• Olive & Tomato Boost: Stir in some chopped Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flair.
• Artichoke Hearts: Add chopped marinated artichoke hearts for a tangy, savory bite.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with a pinch of dried oregano, fresh mint, or a mix of both for different aromatic notes.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the cooked chicken with drained and rinsed chickpeas, mashed slightly, for a delicious plant-based version.

Nutrition

Enjoying this Tzatziki Chicken Salad means enjoying a meal packed with goodness. It’s a smart choice for a balanced diet.

This Mediterranean chicken salad is a fantastic source of lean protein, helping you feel full and energized. It’s also naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in fresh vegetables, providing essential vitamins and fiber. It offers a healthier alternative to traditional chicken salads, thanks to the Greek yogurt base.

Please note that these are approximate nutritional values per serving and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a true gem in your recipe collection, offering a delightful blend of fresh flavors and simple preparation. It’s a healthy, versatile, and incredibly tasty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant Mediterranean profile and creamy Greek yogurt base, it delivers satisfaction without the guilt.

We encourage you to try this easy chicken salad today and discover your new favorite lunch or dinner! Share your delicious creations with Sweet Emily and let us know how you enjoyed this Mediterranean twist.

Tzatziki Chicken Salad

A refreshing and flavorful chicken salad featuring the creamy, tangy taste of tzatziki, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables, perfect for a light meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Grater

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated English cucumber excess moisture squeezed out
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic clove, peeled and grated
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, grated garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
• Add chopped chicken, diced cucumber, celery, red onion, and crumbled feta, then stir everything until thoroughly mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning with lemon, salt, and pepper if needed.
• Serve the chicken salad as desired, perhaps over greens, with pita chips, in a pita, lettuce cup, or as a sandwich/wrap.

Notes

Serve this versatile salad over greens, with pita chips, in a pita pocket, or as a sandwich/wrap filling. Garnish with chopped tomatoes, kalamata olives, extra feta, and fresh herbs for added flavor.