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Zesty Tzatziki Chicken Salad has become my top pick for lunch when I want something fresh satisfying and packed with Mediterranean flavor It is the ultimate make ahead meal perfect for busy weekdays and always a hit at summer picnics
Every time I crave something zippy yet healthy I return to this salad The homemade tzatziki coating brings everything together showing me that salads never need to feel boring
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Leftover roast chicken works beautifully Just be sure it is juicy and flavorful as this will make or break the salad
- Greek yogurt: Provides creaminess and tang Choose full fat for best richness and flavor
- Cucumber: Adds crunch and cooling moisture Pick a seedless variety for easier prep
- Garlic: Gives that signature tzatziki bite Use fresh for the full aroma
- Fresh dill: Earthy and bright If you love dill you can add a little extra
- Lemon juice: Brings zestiness and brings the flavors to life Fresh squeezed is worth it
- Olive oil: Gives a silky touch Choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Salt and black pepper: Essential to balance the creamy yogurt and the tangy lemon
- Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness Choose ripe and firm for best color and taste
- Red onion: Adds gentle sharpness Slice thin so it compliments but does not overpower
- Kalamata olives: Savory and slightly briny Choose pitted and juicy for easy eating
- Mixed greens: The salad base makes each bite complete Go with your favorite leafy greens
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Tzatziki Dressing:
- Combine Greek yogurt minced garlic fresh dill lemon juice olive oil salt and black pepper in a medium bowl Stir until smooth and creamy This is your ultimate tangy base and it soaks into every ingredient
- Prepare the Salad Mix:
- In a large bowl add the cooked shredded chicken diced cucumber halved cherry tomatoes thinly sliced red onion and Kalamata olives Mix so the chicken begins to pick up the flavors from the fresh veggies and olives
- Coat with Tzatziki Dressing:
- Pour the tzatziki dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture Toss slowly but thoroughly so all pieces are glossy and fully coated This is what gives each bite that signature Mediterranean creaminess
- Arrange Serving Plates:
- Place a layer of mixed greens on each serving plate They help soak up the extra dressing and make each forkful refreshing and balanced
- Finish and Serve:
- Spoon the tzatziki chicken salad over the greens Garnish with more dill or a sprinkle of olives if you like Serve straight away for crisp veggies or let it chill for thirty minutes for a colder blend of flavors
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My personal obsession here is with the fresh dill It makes each bite taste uplifting and herby Whenever I served this at family gatherings there is always friendly debate about who gets the last spoonful Everyone loves how the punchy yogurt dressing mellows out the garlic and onion
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Keep the mixed greens separate until serving if possible so they stay crisp If meal prepping you can portion the dressed chicken mixture and greens in separate containers and then assemble just before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
For the chicken you can use rotisserie chicken turkey or even cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian twist Greek yogurt is best but plain thick yogurt of any kind can also work If you do not have fresh dill try dried dill just use a little less Red onions can be swapped with thinly sliced shallots or even scallions for a milder taste
Serving Suggestions
While this is delicious straight from the bowl it also shines stuffed in pita pockets or wrapped in flatbread For a heartier dinner I will serve it alongside warm roasted potatoes or spoon it over quinoa You can even add feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flavor
Cultural Twists
This salad draws inspiration from classic Greek tzatziki sauce paired with the ease of American chicken salad The yogurt dill and cucumber combo is rooted in Mediterranean tradition which I love bringing to my summer table A dish like this can turn a simple lunch into a mini escape to Greece
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This zesty tzatziki chicken salad brings joyful freshness to the everyday meal rotation and it never lasts long on my table It is one recipe I love tweaking every time based on what the market or my cravings offer
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds convenience, just shred or dice before mixing.
- → How can I keep the tzatziki dressing creamy and not watery?
Use thick Greek yogurt and squeeze excess moisture from the cucumber before adding it to the mix.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and chill for up to 24 hours, but add the mixed greens just before serving for freshness.
- → What greens go best with this salad?
Spinach, arugula, or romaine all complement the flavors and provide a crisp base for the chicken and vegetables.
- → How do I make the flavor more intense?
Add extra dill, a splash of lemon, or more minced garlic to tailor the brightness to your preference.