This Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a light and tasty dish! With crunchy cucumbers, fresh dill, and creamy Greek yogurt, it makes a perfect lunch or snack.
Who knew healthy could taste this good? I love tossing this salad together in just minutes. Pair it with some pita bread or crackers for a fun meal! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s already cooked and flavorful. You can also use leftover chicken if you have it on hand, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great for this recipe since they are mostly seedless and have a crisp texture. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work just fine, but make sure to peel them if the skin is thick.
Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt is the base for creaminess here. It provides a tangy flavor. For a lighter version, you could use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan yogurt made from coconut or almond.
Dill: Fresh dill gives the salad a bright flavor, but if it’s not available, dried dill can work as a substitute – just use about a third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Can I Make My Chicken Salad Extra Flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your chicken salad, consider these tips:
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this helps all the flavors blend together.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens the dish and complements the yogurt.
- Add crunch by mixing in celery or apples for sweetness.
- If you like a bit of bite, include red onion or green onion.
- Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and refreshing chicken salad every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup cucumber, finely diced (preferably seedless or English cucumber)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced (optional for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup red onion or green onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. After mixing everything together, giving it some time in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, but most of that is just waiting for the salad to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Cucumber:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken pieces and finely diced cucumber. Stir them together gently to start blending the flavors.
2. Add the Creamy Ingredients:
Next, add the Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the bowl. These ingredients will create a delicious dressing for the salad.
3. Mix in Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using celery and onion, add them to the mix now. They’ll give your salad a nice crunch and extra flavor. You can also toss in garlic powder or minced garlic if you enjoy a bit of garlic taste.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Using a spoon or spatula, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well-coated with the yogurt and dill dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle some salt and pepper over the mixture and give it another good stir. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remember, the right seasoning can take your salad to the next level!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors blend perfectly for a refreshing taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the salad chilled! It’s great as a filling for sandwiches, on a bed of greens, or with crackers or pita bread. Enjoy your fresh, healthy, and creamy chicken salad!
Bon appétit! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just drain it well and shred or dice it before adding to the salad. It’s a quick option if you’re short on time!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to consume it within this time frame for the best quality and flavor.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just prepare it, cover it, and store it in the fridge. This also allows the flavors to develop even more!
What Other Add-ins Can I Include?
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add diced apples for sweetness, nuts for crunch, or even grapes for a fruity twist. Just make sure the add-ins complement the overall flavor!
