Tzatziki Chicken Salad

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Cool, creamy, and packed with fresh Mediterranean flavor, this Tzatziki Chicken Salad is the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for seconds. Juicy chunks of chicken are coated in a tangy yogurt-based tzatziki dressing, mingled with crisp cucumbers, red onion, and a shower of fresh dill. It’s light, satisfying, and incredibly easy to throw together.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, looking for a refreshing lunch, or serving a crowd at a summer gathering, this salad fits the bill. It tastes even better after sitting a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Tzatziki Chicken Salad doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets, but the right tools make all the difference:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for dicing red onions and slicing cucumbers evenly without bruising them.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for all your chopping and slicing. Use a separate board for chicken if prepping raw.
• Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls: one large for tossing the salad and one medium for mixing the dressing.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision matters when balancing the flavors of the creamy tzatziki dressing.
• Whisk: To blend the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings smoothly into a tangy, creamy base.
• Salad Spinner or Paper Towels: If you’re rinsing your cucumbers or herbs, drying them properly prevents soggy salad.

With these simple tools in hand, you’re well-equipped to make a fresh and flavorful dish in under 20 minutes.

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Ingredients for the Tzatziki Chicken Salad

• Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded or cubed chicken is the protein-rich base of this salad, making it hearty enough to stand on its own.
• Greek Yogurt: This thick, creamy yogurt is the star of the dressing, giving it that classic tzatziki texture and tang.
• Cucumbers: Cool and crunchy, cucumbers provide freshness and texture that balance the creamy dressing.
• Red Onion: A small amount of finely chopped red onion adds just the right punch of sharpness.
• Fresh Dill: This herb brings a bright, slightly grassy flavor that’s essential for authentic tzatziki taste.
• Lemon Juice: Adds zesty brightness that lifts the richness of the yogurt and chicken.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle gives the dressing a silky finish and helps marry all the flavors together.
• Garlic: Just one clove minced finely gives the salad its savory edge.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic but necessary to enhance every bite.

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How To Make the Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

If not using pre-cooked chicken, start by poaching or baking boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Once cooled, shred or cube them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Slice the cucumber into half-moons or quarters, depending on your preference. Finely dice the red onion. Wash and chop the fresh dill.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken with the cucumbers and red onion. Pour the tzatziki dressing over the mixture and gently stir until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Tzatziki Chicken Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon it into lettuce cups for a light low-carb lunch, tuck it into pita pockets for a Mediterranean sandwich, or simply serve it on a plate with crackers and fresh veggies for a picnic-ready platter. It also makes a tasty topping for grain bowls or as a protein-packed side to pasta.

For best results, store your Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing, especially after chilling. Avoid freezing, as the yogurt-based dressing can separate once thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after a few hours.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and cuts down on prep time.

What type of cucumber is best?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are great since they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture. If using regular cucumbers, peel and remove seeds for best results.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt.

Can I add other veggies?

Sure! Chopped cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives add more color and Mediterranean flair.

Does it need to be chilled before serving?

While you can serve it right away, chilling for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and texture.

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Want More Chicken Salad Ideas?

If you’re a fan of this cool and creamy Tzatziki Chicken Salad, you’ll love these other flavorful dishes from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a bold, cheesy comfort meal.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re craving something warm and indulgent.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a hands-off, flavor-packed dinner.
• Southwest Grilled Chicken Wraps for a zesty and portable meal.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce to switch things up with rich, creamy flavors.

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Let me know in the comments how your Tzatziki Chicken Salad turned out. Did you add extra garlic or try it with dill pickles? Did you toss in tomatoes or feta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s keep the conversation fresh and delicious!

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