Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I chopped the fresh cucumber, the crisp sound mingled with the aroma of herbs, whisking me away to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. That’s the blissful moment I fell in love with Tzatziki Chicken Salad—a dish that transforms leftover rotisserie chicken into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing cold salad. Not only is this recipe a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy meal prep days, but it’s also a delightful escape from mundane lunchtime routines. With its creamy tzatziki dressing brimming with refreshing flavors, this salad is not just about taste; it’s about bringing a splash of joy to your week. Whether you’re loading it up on pita or enjoying it as a light, healthy lunch on its own, there’s an irresistible twist waiting for you. Ready to make your mealtime magical? Let’s dive in! Why is Tzatziki Chicken Salad a Must-Try? Bold flavors: The creamy tzatziki dressing, enriched with garlic and fresh dill, elevates this salad to a whole new level. Easy to prepare: Just a few simple steps transform rotisserie chicken into a refreshing meal. Meal prep favorite: Make it ahead for busy days and enjoy a wholesome lunch. Versatile serving options: Enjoy it in wraps, on pita, or over greens. Low-carb delight: Ideal for anyone seeking a light yet satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor! Dive into this delightful dish and escape the ordinary with every bite. Tzatziki Chicken Salad Ingredients For the Salad • Cucumber – Adds freshness and crunch; finely grated to release moisture, making sure to squeeze out excess liquid to avoid a runny salad. • Cooked Rotisserie Chicken – Main protein source; a convenient option that can be easily shredded. You can also use 16 ounces of shredded cooked chicken or canned chicken as alternatives. • Red Onion – Adds a mild sweetness and color; diced for texture and a burst of flavor. For the Tzatziki Dressing • Plain Greek Yogurt – Acts as the creamy base of the tzatziki sauce; substitute with regular yogurt if needed, though it may lose some tanginess. • Chopped Fresh Dill – Provides aromatic herbal flavor; for dried dill, use ⅔ teaspoon for every 2 tablespoons of fresh. • Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness; always go for fresh for the best flavor. • Garlic – Imparts a savory depth; minced for even distribution in the dressing. • Salt and Pepper – Enhance the overall flavors; adjust to your preference for the perfect taste. With these vibrant ingredients, your Tzatziki Chicken Salad will surely be a hit, perfect for those quick lunches or meal prep adventures! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tzatziki Chicken Salad Step 1: Prepare Cucumber Begin by grating one fresh cucumber into a bowl, using a box grater for even sizes. Once grated, transfer the cucumber to a clean paper towel and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery salad. This vital step ensures your Tzatziki Chicken Salad stays fresh and crisp. Step 2: Make Tzatziki Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed grated cucumber, 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, the juice of one lemon, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well integrated, creating a creamy tzatziki dressing that will coat the salad beautifully. Step 3: Add Chicken and Onion Next, shred 2 cups of rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces and incorporate them into the tzatziki mixture. Dice half a red onion and fold it into the salad as well. Gently toss everything together with a spatula until the chicken and onion are thoroughly coated in the tzatziki sauce, ensuring a delightful combination of flavors. Step 4: Serve and Store Now that your Tzatziki Chicken Salad is ready, you can serve it over crisp lettuce, in pita pockets, or alongside whole-grain crackers. For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its vibrant flavor and freshness for easy, healthy lunches throughout the week. Make Ahead Options These Tzatziki Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for busy meal prep! You can grate the cucumber and prepare the tzatziki dressing (combining Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to ensure they stay fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply mix the shredded rotisserie chicken and diced red onion with the pre-made tzatziki dressing for a delightful and quick meal. This approach not only saves you time but also keeps your salad just as delicious and vibrant, turning hectic weeknights into a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Tzatziki Chicken Salad Refrigerator: Store the Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the salad crisp. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the salad without the dressing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and mix with fresh dressing before serving. Serving Tips: When ready to enjoy, serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing lunch. Add an extra squeeze of lemon for a burst of brightness. Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Enjoy it chilled for the best taste! Tzatziki Chicken Salad Variations Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this recipe your own and delight your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with a creamy dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan version that still bursts with flavor. Whole Grain Twist: Use whole grain pita instead of traditional pita for added fiber and a heartier bite, making it even more satisfying. Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in some toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds for an appealing crunch that complements the creamy dressing beautifully. Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley alongside dill, amplifying the freshness and Mediterranean essence of the salad. Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tzatziki for an exciting kick of heat that’ll awaken your palate. Mediterranean Medley: Mix in diced bell peppers or Kalamata olives for a burst of color and briny flavor, transporting your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Alternative Proteins: Swap out rotisserie chicken for leftover grilled shrimp or turkey for a delightful refresh that keeps your meals interesting. Zesty Citrus: Mix in orange or lime juice in place of lemon juice for a different citrus twist that brightens the salad in a unique way. For a delightful side, pair this salad with a Sunshine Salad Discover or enjoy it on top of a Savory Chicken Flatbread for an extra flavor boost! Expert Tips for Tzatziki Chicken Salad • Squeeze the Cucumber: Always remove excess water from the grated cucumber to prevent a runny salad. This ensures your Tzatziki Chicken Salad stays creamy and fresh. • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and lemon juice whenever possible. The vibrant flavors will elevate your salad and provide a zesty punch. • Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper based on your preference. A little can go a long way in enhancing the flavors of your Tzatziki Chicken Salad. • Make It Ahead: Preparing the salad a day in advance can deepen the flavors. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. • Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients, like chopped bell peppers or olives, for a personalized twist on this refreshing dish. What to Serve with Tzatziki Chicken Salad Imagine a delightful meal that brings together fresh flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for any occasion. Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy, it’s perfect for scooping up the creamy salad, enhancing your Mediterranean experience. Crispy Crusty Bread: A toasted baguette or ciabatta adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy tzatziki. Greek Yogurt Tzatziki Dip: Serve with an extra side of tzatziki for double the flavor! Pair it with crunchy vegetables for a refreshing bite. Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the zesty chicken salad, making each mouthful refreshing and delightful. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, tender veggies bring warm earthiness that balances the cool, crisp salad, creating a harmonious plate. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This grain salad boasts fresh herbs and a lemony dressing, mirroring the flavors of the tzatziki chicken salad nicely. Simple Green Salad: A light side of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, brightening up your meal. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit like strawberries or melons provide a sweet finish and a refreshing pop of flavor between bites. Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich, flaky dessert, bringing a traditional Mediterranean experience to your table. Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs What type of cucumber should I use? Absolutely! A standard English cucumber is ideal for this recipe because it has fewer seeds and a thinner skin, providing a perfect crunch. If you can’t find one, Persian cucumbers are also a great option! Just remember to grate and squeeze out any excess moisture to keep your salad from getting soggy. How should I store leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad? I recommend storing your Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure to seal it properly to prevent any off-flavors from creeping in! Can I freeze Tzatziki Chicken Salad? Yes! However, it’s best to freeze the salad without the dressing. To do this, place the shredded chicken, cucumber, red onion, and any other veggies in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge and mix in fresh tzatziki dressing before serving. This ensures the best texture and flavor! What if my tzatziki dressing is too watery? Very common! If your tzatziki dressing turns out watery, chances are the cucumber wasn’t squeezed enough. To rescue it, try adding an extra dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of salt. This will help absorb some excess moisture while maintaining that creamy texture. Remember to always squeeze the grated cucumber to remove as much liquid as possible before mixing! Is this Tzatziki Chicken Salad safe for people with dairy allergies? If you or a loved one has dairy allergies, you can easily adapt this recipe! Substitute plain Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Be sure to check the labels and choose a product with a creamy texture to keep that delicious tzatziki experience intact. It’ll still be a hit! How can I make this salad more satisfying? The more, the merrier! To add extra substance to your Tzatziki Chicken Salad, consider tossing in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and fiber. Chopped bell peppers or even a handful of spinach can offer more nutrients and crunch. Enjoy customizing it to make it your own! Delicious Tzatziki Chicken Salad for Easy Meal Prep Magic Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing dish that transforms leftover rotisserie chicken into a vibrant, easy-to-prep salad. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad1 large Cucumber finely grated, excess liquid squeezed out2 cups Cooked Rotisserie Chicken shredded0.5 cups Red Onion dicedFor the Tzatziki Dressing1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt substitute with regular yogurt if needed2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Dill or ⅔ teaspoon dried dill for every 2 tablespoons of fresh1 tablespoon Lemon Juice preferably fresh2 cloves Garlic mincedto taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment box graterMixing bowlSpatulaAirtight container Method Step-By-Step InstructionsGrate one fresh cucumber into a bowl and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel.In a mixing bowl, combine squeezed cucumber, yogurt, dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, stirring to create the dressing.Shred rotisserie chicken and fold into the tzatziki mixture along with diced onion. Toss until well combined.Serve over lettuce, in pita, or alongside crackers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg NotesFor best results, remove excess water from the cucumber and use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Adjust seasoning to your taste and feel free to add other ingredients as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
