This Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad is fresh, creamy, and packed with flavor! Made with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty yogurt sauce, it’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
I love to enjoy this salad on warm days. It’s like a mini vacation on your plate! Pair it with pita bread or serve it in a wrap for an even bigger treat! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also grill or bake your chicken ahead of time. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or tofu instead for a protein boost.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base of the tzatziki sauce, giving a creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter option, use low-fat yogurt or dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch. If you’re out of cucumber, finely chopped zucchini can work too! Just make sure it’s drained to avoid extra moisture.
Dill: Fresh dill is great for flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried dill can work in a pinch, but use less since dried herbs are more potent.
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite to the salad. If red onion’s flavor is too strong for you, use green onions or even sweet onions instead.
How Do I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
Making tzatziki sauce requires some basic steps to get that creamy texture and fresh flavor. Start with the yogurt and layer in your ingredients for balance:
- Combine Greek yogurt with diced cucumber. Drain excess liquid from the cucumber to prevent a watery sauce.
- Add minced garlic, which gives a nice bite, and fresh dill for that distinct flavor.
- Mix in lemon juice to brighten up the sauce. Adjust salt and pepper after mixing to taste.
With the right balance of ingredients, your tzatziki will be delicious and complement the chicken beautifully! Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cucumber, finely diced (or grated and drained)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 2-3 pita breads or flatbreads, warmed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping and mixing the ingredients, and then it’s ready to serve! No cooking required—perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, finely diced cucumber, fresh dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well until everything is mixed smoothly—this is the creamy and flavorful base for your salad!
2. Mix in the Chicken:
Add the shredded chicken to the tzatziki mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix everything together until the chicken is fully coated with the delicious tzatziki sauce.
3. Prepare the Pita Breads:
Warm the pita breads slightly to make them easier to handle and fold. You can do this in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a skillet over low heat.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Take the warmed pita breads and lay some slices of tomato and diced red onions on each one. These layers add freshness and crunch!
5. Add the Chicken Salad:
Spoon a generous amount of the tzatziki chicken salad on top of the tomatoes and onions. Don’t be shy—load it up for a delicious meal!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the pita to serve or enjoy it open-faced on a plate. Dig in right away while it’s fresh and tasty!
This recipe is simple, fresh, and perfect for a light meal with classic Greek flavors! Enjoy your Easy Tzatziki Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or chop it up, and mix it into the tzatziki sauce. It’s a great way to reduce waste and make a quick meal!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or even sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or cashew cream, but keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor.
How Long Can I Store This Chicken Salad?
The tzatziki chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the pita separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their texture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even olives for extra flavor and crunch. Customize it to your liking and make it your own!