why make this recipe
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is fresh, light, and ready fast. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. If you like chopped styles, try a similar chopped chicken salad for another quick option.
introduction
This salad mixes shredded chicken with a creamy tzatziki-style dressing. It tastes like Greek food but stays easy. For a full Greek take on this idea, see this Greek chicken salad with tzatziki post for more ideas and serving tips.
how to make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Make the dressing first, then add the chicken. Stir until the chicken is all coated. You can also turn these flavors into a warm dish, like a dump and bake chicken tzatziki casserole, if you want a hot meal.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves or pita bread for serving
Directions :
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the tzatziki dressing.
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or in pita bread. Enjoy!
how to serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Serve cold on lettuce leaves or spoon into warm pita bread. Top with extra dill or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it over rice for a fuller meal, similar to this dump and bake chicken tzatziki rice idea.
how to store Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, because the yogurt will separate and change texture.
tips to make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
- Use cooled cooked chicken for best texture.
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out extra water for a thicker dressing.
- Taste and add salt slowly because the chicken may already have salt.
- For more healthy chicken options, check healthy chicken recipes and salads for ideas.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped tomatoes, red onion, or kalamata olives for more flavor.
- Swap dill for mint if you want a different fresh note.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Make it with plain yogurt and a splash of olive oil if you don’t have Greek yogurt.
FAQs
Q: Can I use mayo instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, but yogurt gives a tangy, lighter taste. Mayo makes it richer.
Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes. Use mild garlic and small pieces for easy eating.
Q: Can I make this ahead for a picnic?
A: Make it the day before and keep it chilled. Do not leave it out more than two hours.
Q: Can I add spices?
A: Yes. A pinch of cumin or paprika can change the flavor softly.
Q: How much lemon should I use?
A: Start with 1 tablespoon. Add a little more if you like bright citrus taste.
Conclusion
For another version of this dish with step-by-step photos, see Tzatziki Chicken Salad. If you want an easy home-style guide, check this Easy Greek Tzatziki Chicken Salad – Host The Toast. For a classic recipe write-up, read Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe | Vintage Mixer. For another take with simple swaps, visit Tzatziki Chicken Salad. To see a richer salad that adds avocado, try this Chicken Tzatziki Avocado Salad – Half Baked Harvest.
Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients
For the dressing
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Use plain Greek yogurt for best flavor.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced Grate and squeeze out extra water for a thicker dressing.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Use mild garlic for a kid-friendly option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Drizzle over the salad before serving, if desired.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped Alternatively, swap dill for mint for a different flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adjust to taste for brightness.
- to taste Salt and pepper Add salt slowly as the chicken may already contain salt.
For the salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use cooled cooked chicken for best texture.
- Lettuce leaves or pita bread for serving Serve the salad on lettuce or inside pita bread.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the tzatziki dressing.
Serving
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or spoon into warm pita bread. Enjoy!