This refreshing cucumber chicken salad is a breeze to make! With crunchy cucumbers, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
You’ll love how quick it is to prepare. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! It’s my go-to when I want something tasty without much fuss. Plus, it’s so colorful that it brightens up any meal! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast gives this salad great protein. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even leftover chicken. For a vegetarian option, swap in chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Cucumber: I prefer using a large cucumber, but you can also use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or even zucchini for extra crunch.
Fresh Herbs: I love cilantro, but parsley works just as well! If you’re not a fan of either, try dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan mayonnaise or avocado for a creamy texture.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s quick if you follow these steps:
- After cooking, allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes. This makes handling easier and safer.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart, or quickly shred it using your hands if it’s cool enough.
- If you have a mixer, place the cooked chicken in the bowl and mix on low speed until shredded.
Shredded chicken adds a great texture to your salad, making it more enjoyable to eat!
Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 large cucumber, diced (with skin for color and texture)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cucumber chicken salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you need to cook the chicken, you might want to budget an extra 20-30 minutes for that, depending on your cooking method. So overall, you’re looking at around 30-45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, now’s the time! You can boil, bake, or poach the chicken until it’s cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F). Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Dice the Cucumber:
While the chicken is cooling, wash and dice your cucumber into small cubes. Keeping the skin on adds a nice crunch and a pop of color, making your salad even more appealing!
3. Combine Chicken and Cucumber:
In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken and diced cucumber. These will be the main components of your salad, so mix them gently to combine.
4. Add Fresh Herbs and Sesame Seeds:
Next, toss in the chopped cilantro or parsley along with the black sesame seeds. These ingredients give your salad a burst of flavor and a lovely presentation.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together your Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice or rice vinegar, garlic powder or minced garlic, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will tie all the flavors together!
6. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and cucumber mixture. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring each piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Don’t forget to taste your salad! Add extra salt, pepper, or a bit more lemon juice if you think it needs a little something extra.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready to serve! Whether you prefer it chilled or at room temperature, it makes for a refreshing meal. Feel free to garnish with more herbs or sesame seeds if you wish!
This salad is crisp, light, and perfect for a quick, fresh meal! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces, and you’re ready to go!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as some ingredients may separate.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Salad?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or a plant-based chicken alternative to keep the salad hearty while making it vegetarian.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until right before serving to keep the cucumber crisp and fresh!
