Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner. This salad combines tender shredded chicken with the classic flavors of tzatziki sauce, featuring Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, and a hint of lime. The addition of red onion and Kalamata olives adds a delightful tang and crunch. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delicious Tzatziki Chicken Salad step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, minced and coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cook Chicken: If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, poach or bake it until fully cooked. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or your hands.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
- Mix Yogurt and Cucumber: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and minced cucumber. Mix well.
- Add Dill and Lime Juice: Stir in the fresh dill and lime juice until well combined.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the mixture and stir to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the tzatziki sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Red Onion and Olives: Stir in the finely chopped red onion and Kalamata olives (if using). Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lime juice or dill if desired.
- Chill: For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Tzatziki Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, in a pita, or as a sandwich filling. Enjoy this refreshing and healthy dish!
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: Use any leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quickly poach or bake chicken breasts for this recipe.
- Yogurt: Greek yogurt is ideal for its thick and creamy texture, but you can use regular yogurt if desired.
- Cucumber: Make sure to mince and chop the cucumber well to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Herbs: Fresh dill adds a wonderful flavor, but you can also use dried dill if fresh is not available. Adjust the quantity to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for additional flavor and texture.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet. Ensure that the yogurt you use is full-fat Greek yogurt for the best results.
Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and fresh vegetables makes it a delightful and satisfying option. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at your table!
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