This zesty Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty dish! It combines juicy chicken with creamy tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, and crunchy veggies for a perfect summer meal.
I love how quick and simple this salad is to whip up! It’s great for lunch or a picnic, and it feels so light and refreshing—ideal for those hot days when cooking feels too much! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this salad. If you prefer, you can use rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Just shred it and toss it in!
Greek Yogurt: Essential for the tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt provides creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt instead.
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add crunch and freshness. If you can’t find fresh ones, you may use pickles or marinated cucumbers for an interesting twist.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or mint bring vibrancy to the dish. If you can’t get these, dried herbs can work, though they won’t have the same punch of flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly is key to this salad! To ensure juicy results, follow these steps:
- Preheat your grill pan or skillet—it helps achieve that nice sear!
- After seasoning, let the chicken sit for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
- Cook on medium-high heat, 5-7 minutes per side, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer can help here!
Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep the juices locked in. Slicing it before it rests can lead to dry chicken!
What’s the Trick to Creamy Tzatziki?
Making tzatziki sauce is super easy! Just ensure your cucumber is well-drained to avoid a watery sauce. After grating, squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This helps the tzatziki stay thick and flavorful!
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—more lemon or salt can brighten up the flavor!
- Chill for a bit in the fridge to meld the flavors—this sauce gets even better after sitting for a while.
Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup cooked bulgur wheat or quinoa (optional for base)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or mint
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes making the tzatziki sauce and seasoning the chicken, then about 15-20 minutes grilling. The final touch of assembling your salad only takes a few minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Next, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure they’re well-coated, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked through and have nice grill marks. Once done, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, it’s time to whip up the tzatziki sauce! First, squeeze the grated cucumber to remove any excess moisture—this helps keep the sauce thick. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, the squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well blended, then pop it in the fridge to chill while you finish your salad.
3. Assemble Your Salad:
In serving bowls, start with a generous layer of chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens. If you’re using bulgur or quinoa, sprinkle that on top. Next, arrange the sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chopped red onion over the greens. Drizzle your tzatziki sauce generously over the top of the salad and finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or mint for added flavor and freshness.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in immediately and enjoy the vibrant and refreshing flavors of this Mediterranean Chicken Salad! It’s perfect as a light lunch or a wholesome dinner that captures the essence of sunny Mediterranean cuisine.
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Can I Use Cooked Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, you can skip the grilling step altogether. Just shred or dice the cooked chicken and mix it with the spices before tossing it into your salad!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the tzatziki sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess. Enjoy the salad within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness!
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the tzatziki sauce a day in advance! In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt that has a similar texture. You can also use sour cream for a tangy taste if dairy is not an issue.
