Flavorful Tzatziki Chicken Salad with Fresh Mediterranean Flavors
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced chicken to the bowl of vegetables and pour the tzatziki dressing over the top. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve the tzatziki chicken salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
- Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need to make Tzatziki Chicken Salad?
- To make Tzatziki Chicken Salad, you’ll need cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced), Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optionally, red onion, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and lettuce for serving.
- How do I make the tzatziki sauce for the salad?
- To make the tzatziki sauce, grate the cucumber and squeeze out any excess moisture using a cheesecloth or paper towels. In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even poached chicken work well. Just ensure the chicken is shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
- How should I serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad?
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad can be served in various ways. You can serve it over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens, in a pita pocket or wrap, or as a filling for a sandwich. It also pairs well with quinoa or couscous for a more substantial meal. Garnish with extra fresh dill, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
- How long can I store Tzatziki Chicken Salad in the refrigerator?
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits, so it’s a good idea to taste and adjust seasoning before serving if needed. Keep in mind that the cucumber in the tzatziki sauce may release some water over time, so give the salad a good stir before serving.