This refreshing chicken salad combines juicy cucumbers, creamy Greek yogurt, and zesty dill for a tasty twist! It’s light, crunchy, and perfect for warm days or a quick meal.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together and enjoy. It’s great on its own, or you can pile it on some bread for a yummy sandwich!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast, either diced or shredded. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great. If you want to keep it vegetarian, try using chickpeas or tofu instead!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers add crunch and hydration. If cucumbers aren’t available, you could use diced bell peppers or zucchini instead for a different texture.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for the creamy dressing. You can swap it with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt for a non-dairy option. I prefer the Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and high protein content.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a lovely flavor, but if it’s hard to find, dried dill will do in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount for dried-fresh ratio. Some people also enjoy parsley or basil instead!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon brightens the dish. Bottled lemon juice works too, but nothing beats the taste of fresh. If you like it zesty, add some lemon zest!
How Do I Ensure a Creamy and Well-Mixed Salad?
The trick to a creamy chicken salad lies in combining the ingredients properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large mixing bowl to give yourself enough space.
- Gently mix the chicken and veggies first. This helps distribute everything evenly before adding the yogurt.
- Next, add the Greek yogurt, dill, and lemon juice. Use a spatula or spoon to fold everything together gently. You want the chicken coated without mashing it.
- Be sure to taste your salad at the end! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and feel free to add more yogurt if you want a creamier consistency.
- Let it chill! This helps the flavors meld and gives a better taste experience. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade chicken salad on a warm day, it’s so refreshing!
Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (about half a medium cucumber)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon red onion, finely minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken salad recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In under an hour, you can have a refreshing dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked chicken, diced cucumber, and celery (if you’re using it). Mixing these first will help distribute the flavors evenly throughout the salad.
2. Add the Dressing:
Next, scoop in the plain Greek yogurt, sprinkle in the fresh or dried dill, and pour the lemon juice over the top. These ingredients create a creamy and tangy dressing that brings everything together.
3. Mix It Up:
Gently mix all the ingredients with a spatula or spoon until everything is well combined. Make sure the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with the yogurt dressing—it should look creamy but still retain some chunks!
4. Season and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your salad! Add salt and black pepper according to your liking. If you’re including red onion, fold that in as well for a nice flavor kick.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, try it on a bed of lettuce, between sandwich bread, or with some crunchy crackers!
Enjoy your Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad—it’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack!
FAQ for Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient alternative. Just drain it well and break it apart with a fork before mixing it into the salad. This saves time and gives you a quick meal option!
Is There a Way to Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt like almond, coconut, or soy yogurt. Make sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor. It will still be deliciously creamy!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving as some separation may occur while it’s stored.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other diced veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or green onions. They’ll add more crunch and flavor, and you can customize it to your liking!
