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This tzatziki chicken salad has been my go-to lunch when I want something crisp cool and satisfying The creamy Greek yogurt dressing packs a punch with fresh dill lemon and cucumber making every bite feel super refreshing It comes together in minutes and always tastes like summer no matter what time of year
The first time I whipped up this salad was after a busy grocery day and I needed something fast and tasty Now my friends request the recipe every time they try it
Ingredients
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: I always look for a juicy well seasoned rotisserie chicken at the store for the best flavor
- Cucumber: Persian or English cucumber works best for crunch with minimal seeds Peel if skin is tough and grate finely before squeezing dry
- Greek yogurt: Use a thick whole milk variety for the creamiest texture and tang Opt for plain unsweetened yogurt
- Fresh dill: This gives authentic tzatziki flavor Choose perky feathery sprigs free of wilt or browning
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed delivers the brightest citrus flavor
- Garlic: Fresh cloves pack a punch so mince very finely for even flavor
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together
- Pepper: Cracks of black pepper help balance the tang and ties in with savory chicken notes
- Red onion: Adds color crunch and a hint of bite Use a sharp knife to dice very small for best texture
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater Place in a clean towel and firmly squeeze out as much water as possible This prevents a watery dressing In a large bowl stir together the cucumber Greek yogurt chopped dill lemon juice minced garlic salt and pepper until thoroughly combined
- Shred and Add the Chicken:
- Take cooked rotisserie chicken and shred into bite sized pieces Remove skin and bones for the best texture Add the shredded chicken to the tzatziki bowl and toss until every piece is well coated
- Mix in the Red Onion:
- Finely dice red onion and add to the salad Stir to combine for a subtle bite and color
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor let the salad chill for at least 10 minutes Before serving give it a quick stir Serve over lettuce inside pita bread or scoop it up with crunchy crackers
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Using garden fresh dill in this salad reminds me of summers at my grandmother’s house where we’d snip fresh herbs together Just a tablespoon makes a world of difference in flavor and fragrance
Storage Tips
This chicken salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Give it a quick stir before serving Leftovers sometimes taste even better as the flavors have time to meld
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Greek yogurt try plain skyr or any strained yogurt Substitute rotisserie chicken with freshly cooked chicken breast or thigh Using flat leaf parsley in place of dill brings a unique herbal twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile the salad into halved pita pockets spoon it onto romaine leaves for a low carb lunch or serve it with crunchy vegetable sticks as a dip It is also fantastic as a hearty sandwich with sliced tomato and crisp lettuce
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Cultural and Historical Notes
Tzatziki is a classic Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce beloved across the Mediterranean This chicken salad borrows the essential components of that traditional sauce and brings them together in a modern protein packed meal
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What protein works best with tzatziki flavors?
Shredded rotisserie chicken offers a tender, flavorful foundation that pairs beautifully with the tangy yogurt sauce.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too watery?
Always squeeze excess moisture out of the grated cucumber before mixing it into the yogurt.
- → Can I use a different herb instead of dill?
Fresh mint or parsley can substitute for dill, offering a different herbal brightness to the mix.
- → What's an easy way to serve this salad?
Enjoy it spooned over crisp lettuce, stuffed into pita, or paired with crackers for texture and crunch.
- → How long does this dish stay fresh in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 2 days for best flavor and texture.