This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a cool and refreshing dish that combines juicy chicken with creamy tzatziki sauce. You’ll love the crunchy veggies and fresh herbs mixed in!
Honestly, this salad is like a sunny day on a plate! I enjoy it for lunch or as a fun dinner side. Throw in some pita chips, and you’ve got a great snack too! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for the creamy tzatziki. If you’re looking for lower fat options, you can use low-fat yogurt. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut yogurt or a non-dairy yogurt alternative.
Cucumber: The cucumber adds freshness. If you’re short on cucumbers, you could use zucchini, but remember it will alter the flavor slightly. Just ensure it’s grated and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture.
Fresh Dill: Dill gives tzatziki its characteristic taste. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill is a good substitute. Use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Red Onion: Red onion offers a nice bite. If it’s too strong for your taste, consider using green onions or sweet onions. They have a milder flavor and work just fine.
How Do I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Extra Creamy?
Creating the tzatziki sauce is all about the right texture. Here are some tips to get it creamy and delicious:
- Use thicker Greek yogurt. If it seems too runny, strain it through a cheesecloth or a fine sieve for a few hours to remove excess whey.
- Grate the cucumber finely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This prevents a watery salad.
- Mix the ingredients gently to maintain a creamy consistency; avoid over-mixing which can make it thin.
How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely grated and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Whole wheat pita bread or lettuce wraps
- Tomato slices for topping
- Red onion slices for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tzatziki Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you’d like to chill it for a bit before serving, add an extra 30 minutes for a refreshing taste. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything well to create a smooth and tasty tzatziki sauce.
2. Combine with Chicken:
Next, add your shredded or diced chicken to the tzatziki mixture. Stir gently until the chicken is evenly coated with that delicious sauce. This step ensures that every bite is full of flavor!
3. Assemble and Serve:
To put it all together, take a piece of whole wheat pita bread or a lettuce wrap. Spoon a generous portion of the Tzatziki chicken salad into the center. Then, add some fresh tomato slices and red onion slices on top for extra crunch and flavor.
4. Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for a satisfying meal, or if you prefer, pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for a chilled version. No matter how you serve it, enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or dice the chicken as needed, and mix it into the tzatziki sauce. This will not only make the dish quicker to prepare but also add extra flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad?
You can store leftover Tzatziki chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again as the ingredients may settle!
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond-based yogurt. Just ensure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best flavor balance.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even diced avocado would make tasty additions. They can add extra crunch and nutrition to your salad!
