Name: Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 medium cucumber, finely grated; ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1 cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; ½ red onion, diced

I love how this Tzatziki Chicken Salad brings together the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, the freshness of cucumber and dill, and the savory goodness of rotisserie chicken. It’s a delightful blend that makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe to be a perfect balance of flavor and convenience. The tzatziki sauce adds a zesty kick, while the rotisserie chicken makes preparation a breeze. It’s versatile enough to serve in various ways, whether in a pita, on crackers, or over a bed of greens. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium cucumber, finely grated
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 cooked rotisserie chicken
½ red onion, diced

Directions

I start by preparing the tzatziki sauce. I wrap the grated cucumber in a paper towel or tea towel and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture. Then, I transfer the grated cucumber to a mixing bowl.
To the bowl with the cucumber, I add the plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. I stir well to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Next, I shred the rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the tzatziki sauce.
I toss the chicken with the tzatziki sauce until it’s evenly coated.
Finally, I add the diced red onion to the mixture, giving it a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
I serve the tzatziki chicken salad on pita bread with fresh sliced tomato and additional red onion for a traditional Greek-inspired meal. Alternatively, I enjoy it on crackers, with pita chips, or over a bed of crisp lettuce for a lighter option.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner.

Variations

I like to customize this salad based on what I have on hand. Sometimes, I add chopped kalamata olives or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor. If I want a bit of heat, I include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a more substantial meal, I serve it over cooked quinoa or couscous.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover tzatziki chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so I don’t recommend reheating it. If the salad becomes a bit watery after storage, I simply give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade tzatziki sauce instead of store-bought Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! I often make my own tzatziki sauce by combining finely grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to the salad.

Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken with another type of cooked chicken?

Yes, I sometimes use grilled, baked, or poached chicken instead of rotisserie. As long as it’s cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces, it works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! I often prepare the tzatziki chicken salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s a convenient option for meal prep and stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates, especially when served over greens or in lettuce wraps. I avoid serving it with bread or crackers if I’m watching my carb intake.

Can I freeze the tzatziki chicken salad?

I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the yogurt-based sauce may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Conclusion

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad has become a staple in my meal rotation. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether I’m enjoying it in a pita, on a salad, or straight from the bowl, it’s a delicious and satisfying option that never disappoints.