This Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is a light and tasty choice for lunch! It features crunchy cucumbers, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together perfectly.
I love how refreshing it tastes, especially on warm days. Plus, it’s quick to whip up! Just mix your ingredients, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready to go. Enjoy it with some crispy crackers for added crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: This is the main protein source. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook fresh chicken breasts as described. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crispness. If you can’t find one, substitute with mini cucumbers or even zucchini for a similar crunch. Just make sure to remove excess moisture if using zucchini.
Red Onion: It gives a sharper taste. If you prefer something milder, green onions or shallots work well. For a sweeter option, use sweet onions.
Fresh Dill: Dill is key for flavor. If you’re out of fresh dill, dried dill can work, though use less since it’s more concentrated. Parsley can also be a great substitute if you prefer it.
Greek Yogurt: It’s creamy and tangy. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a silken tofu blend for a similar consistency.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Well Combined?
Mixing all ingredients well is crucial for flavor. Start by creating the dressing with yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. This is the base flavor. Then, add your solid ingredients like chicken, cucumber, and onion. Gently fold everything together with a spatula to avoid breaking the chicken pieces.
- Combine dressing ingredients first in a mixing bowl.
- Add larger ingredients (chicken, cucumber, onion) and mix gently.
- Ensure everything gets a light coating of the dressing for best flavor.
After mixing, let the salad chill in the fridge. This helps flavors develop further, giving you a tasty and refreshing dish!
Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder or minced fresh garlic
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you need to cook the chicken, you might want to add an additional 20-30 minutes, depending on your method. After mixing the salad, it’s best to chill for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors come together. Overall, you’re looking at about 30-45 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear them until fully cooked, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let the chicken cool down for a few minutes and then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Chop the Veggies:
While the chicken cools, peel and dice the cucumber. Make sure it’s nice and bite-sized. Finely chop the red onion and the fresh dill. The dill will add a lovely fresh flavor to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder or fresh garlic. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the cubed chicken, diced cucumber, red onion, and chopped dill to the bowl with the dressing. Use a spatula to gently toss everything together. You want all the ingredients to be well coated with the dressing without breaking up the chicken pieces.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you feel it needs more seasoning, add a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, or a bit more lemon juice—whatever you think it needs!
6. Chill and Serve:
It’s best to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Serve it as a light lunch with slices of whole grain bread or some crispy crackers on the side. Enjoy your fresh and healthy meal!
This Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch. Enjoy!
FAQ for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great in this salad. Just make sure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free option, swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. You can also use an avocado mash for creaminess!
What Can I Add to This Salad for Extra Crunch?
For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery or bell peppers. Nuts like sliced almonds or sunflower seeds can also add a delightful texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure maximum freshness, it’s best to consume the salad within this time frame.
