Mediterranean Delight: Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a creamy, tangy tzatziki dressing. Packed with crisp vegetables and herbs, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, meal prep, or a refreshing summer dinner. Serve it on its own, in a pita, or over greens for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and healthy – Packed with lean protein, crisp veggies, and a yogurt-based dressing.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
• Bursting with Mediterranean flavors – Garlic, lemon, dill, and cucumber create a delicious combination.
• Great for meal prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
• Versatile serving options – Enjoy it as a sandwich, wrap, or over greens.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Dried oregano
• Lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper

For the Tzatziki Dressing

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber (grated and drained)
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice
• Fresh dill (chopped)
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper

For the Salad

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Cucumber (diced)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Kalamata olives (sliced)
• Feta cheese (crumbled)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-sear: Cook the chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).
3. Rest and slice: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Dressing

1. Grate and drain the cucumber to remove excess water.
2. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.
2. Add the cooked chicken and drizzle with tzatziki dressing. Toss to coat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Enjoy on its own as a hearty salad.
2. Serve in pita bread for a delicious wrap.
3. Pair with greens or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the chicken marinade.
• Vegan Option: Use chickpeas instead of chicken and dairy-free yogurt.
• Extra Crunch: Add bell peppers or toasted pine nuts.
• Herb Boost: Mix in fresh mint or parsley for extra freshness.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken separately or enjoy it cold.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier.

What’s the best yogurt for tzatziki?

Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest texture and best flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store the salad and dressing separately, then combine before serving.

What goes well with this salad?

Serve with pita bread, hummus, or a side of quinoa.

How do I keep the cucumber from making the dressing watery?

Squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber before mixing.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky depth to the flavor.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! Skip the pita and keep the salad as is for a low-carb meal.

What’s a good substitute for feta?

Goat cheese or ricotta salata are great alternatives.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only half the amount since dried dill is more concentrated.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and omit the feta.

Conclusion

Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean dish that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether served on its own, in a pita, or over greens, this meal is a delicious way to enjoy bright, zesty flavors with minimal effort. Try it today for a fresh and healthy meal option!

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