Introduction
Whisk your taste buds away on a culinary adventure with our light, refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the satiating protein of chicken with pillowy Greek yogurt, crisp vegetables, and a robust tzatziki dressing that leaves a lingering tangy taste on your palate. Ideal for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner, this salad is truly a wholesome eating choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re bored with regular salads and want to try something different, the Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a great option. It’s hearty, delicious, and easy to make. Moreover, the combination of crisp veggies and succulent chicken, drizzled with tangy, creamy tzatziki dressing, makes every bite taste like a gastronomic tour of the Mediterranean. Besides, it’s ready in just 25 minutes!
How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 cups mixed salad greens
Tzatziki Dressing:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
1. Start by combining the chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, prepare the tzatziki dressing by blending the Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken-vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Lay a bed of mixed greens on serving plates and spoon the salad mixture over them.
5. If desired, garnish with additional dill or feta cheese.
How to Serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Serve the Tzatziki Chicken Salad over a fresh bed of mixed lettuce greens. It works best as a standalone dish, but it can also complement heartier mains like grilled meats or pasta. For a full Mediterranean spread, pair it with some warm pita bread, hummus, and a chilled glass of white wine.
How to Store Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1-2 days. The dressing may cause the salad ingredients to soften, so it’s best to consume well within this time frame.
Tips to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
1. For the chicken, either freshly-cooked or leftover chicken would work.
2. Make sure your Greek yogurt is thick. If it’s not, strain it through a cheesecloth to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Balance the acidity from the yogurt and lemon with a pinch of sugar if needed.
4. Use freshly-chopped dill for the best flavor.
FAQs
1. What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use turkey or tofu as a substitute.
2. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the tzatziki dressing can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
3. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or any thicker yogurt variety as a substitute.