This refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy yogurt sauce. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a picnic!
I’m a big fan of this salad because it’s super easy to whip up. Just mix everything together and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy but is really simple! 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like to use rotisserie chicken for convenience. However, you can easily cook and shred your own chicken breasts. If you’re short on time, leftover chicken works beautifully too!
Greek Yogurt: This is key for that creamy tzatziki texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with regular plain yogurt. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a plant-based alternative.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch. If you don’t have cucumber, try grated zucchini or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Dill: Fresh dill truly brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, parsley or mint can work as substitutes, depending on your taste.
How Do I Make the Perfect Tzatziki Sauce?
The tzatziki sauce is what gives this chicken salad its delicious flavor. Here’s how to make it perfectly:
- Start with the Greek yogurt in a mixing bowl.
- Add in the finely diced cucumber. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the cucumber to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and dill. The fresh herbs really enhance the flavor.
- Finish off with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined.
Letting the sauce sit for a few minutes lets the flavors mingle, giving you the best taste! Enjoy your tasty tzatziki chicken salad!
Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 4 whole wheat pita breads or flatbreads
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you chill the salad for a bit, it enhances the flavors even more! Let it sit for 15-20 minutes in the fridge if you have time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the Greek yogurt, finely diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth and creamy tzatziki sauce. The fresh cucumber will add a nice crunch!
2. Combine Chicken with Tzatziki:
Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken to the bowl with the tzatziki mixture. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly with the delicious sauce. Make sure each piece of chicken gets the tzatziki goodness!
3. Prepare the Pita Breads:
Take your whole wheat pita breads and lay them out on plates. Start layering by placing slices of tomato and some rings of red onion on top of each pita. This adds both flavor and color!
4. Assemble the Salad:
Spoon the tzatziki chicken mixture generously over the tomatoes and onion on each pita. Don’t be shy—this is the star of the dish!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salads right away or let them chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors. Either way, you will have a refreshing and easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works wonderfully. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may meld even more as it sits, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it the next day!
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce up to a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to mix it with the chicken for serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Pita Bread?
If you don’t have pita bread, feel free to use lettuce wraps, tortillas, or even serve the tzatziki chicken salad by itself in a bowl. It’s versatile!
