Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Name: Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 firm cucumber, grated; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By Alicia Newsom

March 29, 2025

0

24

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The Tzatziki Chicken Salad is like a mini vacation right on your plate. Imagine succulent chicken, marinated to perfection, nestled among crisp veggies and drizzled with creamy tzatziki sauce that dances on your taste buds. The freshness of cucumber mingles with the zing of garlic, creating an explosion of flavors that will have you saying “Opa” in no time.

You know those summer days when you’re lounging outside, feeling the sun on your skin? This dish is perfect for such moments, whether it’s a picnic in the park or a casual family gathering. Each bite evokes memories of warm evenings spent with loved ones, sharing laughter and delicious food. Trust me this salad promises to be the highlight of your next meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Tzatziki Chicken Salad is easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
It’s customizable based on what you have at home
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning at any dinner table
Perfect for hot summer days but versatile enough for any occasion

I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Cucumber: Pick a firm cucumber – it adds that refreshing crunch we all crave.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Opt for full-fat yogurt for a richer tzatziki experience.
Fresh Dill: Use fresh dill instead of dried if you can it adds a burst of flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up beautifully.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all those lovely flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: Start by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Coat your chicken breasts in this marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up all that flavor.

Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You know it’s ready when it has lovely grill marks and smells heavenly.

Create the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken cooks, grate your cucumber using a box grater. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Combine with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl until mixed well.

Assemble Your Salad: Once the chicken has cooled slightly after cooking, slice it into juicy strips. In a large bowl or platter, toss mixed greens with diced cucumbers and tomatoes first before layering on top the sliced chicken.

Add Tzatziki Generously: Drizzle that delightful tzatziki sauce over your salad masterpiece like you’re painting a canvas Feel free to add extra herbs or even olives for added Mediterranean flair.

Enjoy every bite of this vibrant Tzatziki Chicken Salad

You Must Know

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad brings together freshness and flavor, transforming your mealtime into a vibrant experience
The creamy tzatziki over tender chicken makes every bite a burst of deliciousness
Perfect for warm days or picnics, it’s a dish that impresses without fuss

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken seasoned with herbs first to lock in moisture, then prepare your tzatziki sauce while letting it rest. This ensures juicy chicken and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap grilled chicken for shrimp or add roasted vegetables for a delightful twist. Experimenting with fresh herbs like dill can elevate your tzatziki sauce even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the chicken’s juiciness, but enjoy cold too

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your tzatziki extra refreshing, use Greek yogurt for a thicker texture
Always let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving it enhances the flavors beautifully
Remember, fresh ingredients lead to tastier dishes so go for quality

When I first made this Tzatziki Chicken Salad for my family, their smiles said it all it quickly became a dinner favorite

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in tzatziki?

You can use sour cream or even dairy-free yogurt as alternatives.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance just keep the dressing separate.

How do I make tzatziki spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give it a kick

Print