This Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad is refreshing and full of flavor! It combines tender chicken with creamy tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, and herbs, making it a perfect light meal.
It’s super quick to make, and I love how the cool tzatziki lifts my mood. Perfect for a picnic or a quick lunch at home. Because who can resist a tasty salad? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken is the backbone of this salad. You can use any leftover chicken or even store-bought rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu can be a great substitute!
Greek Yogurt: This is a healthier option compared to mayo and adds creaminess. You could use regular yogurt or dairy-free alternatives if needed. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid from the yogurt to maintain the right consistency.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a crisp texture. If you don’t have fresh ones, you could use pickles or some finely chopped zucchini as a substitute. Just remember to drain any excess water!
Dill: Fresh dill provides a fresh taste but if you can’t find it, parsley or a sprinkle of dry dill can work too. I personally love using fresh herbs for that extra zing!
Pita Bread: Great for holding the salad, but if you prefer a low-carb option, serve the salad over a bed of greens instead. Gluten-free tortillas also work well!
How Do I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
The tzatziki sauce is what gives this chicken salad its amazing flavor. To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Use a fine grater to shred the cucumber for even mixing. Don’t forget to squeeze out the excess moisture to prevent the sauce from getting watery.
- Mix the yogurt with lemon juice and garlic before adding other ingredients. This allows the flavors to marry perfectly.
- Let the tzatziki sit for about 15-30 minutes in the fridge before mixing it with the chicken. This enhances the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. If it needs more brightness, add another splash of lemon juice!
Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely chopped (or grated and drained)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (plus some slices for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. No cooking time is needed if you have leftover chicken! You can easily whip this up for a quick lunch or dinner, especially on busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, and lemon juice. Stir well until you have a creamy tzatziki sauce. This base will add so much flavor to your salad!
2. Combine with Chicken:
Now, add the shredded cooked chicken to the tzatziki sauce. Gently fold it together until all the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. It should be creamy and delicious!
3. Add Onion & Season:
Next, mix in the finely diced red onion. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors blend well.
4. Prepare the Pita Breads:
Warm your pita breads in the oven or toaster for a few minutes until they are soft and pliable—this will make them easier to fold!
5. Assemble Your Salad:
Take a warm pita bread and lay it flat on a plate. Place a layer of sliced tomatoes and some red onion rings on one half of the pita.
6. Add the Chicken Salad:
Now, generously scoop the tzatziki chicken salad over the tomatoes and onions. Don’t be shy—load it up with that creamy goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Fold the pita over and it’s ready to eat! Enjoy this refreshing and creamy tzatziki chicken salad for a light lunch or dinner. Perfect for any occasion!
And that’s it! You’ve made a tasty and satisfying dish in no time. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, whether from a previous meal or a store-bought rotisserie chicken, works perfectly in this salad. Just shred it before mixing with the tzatziki sauce.
How Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
To make this tzatziki chicken salad dairy-free, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt. Just make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even avocado for extra creaminess. Just make sure to keep any additional ingredients chopped finely for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover tzatziki chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the pita bread separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent it from getting soggy!
