This Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s packed with flavor and super simple to whip up!
Picture this: you’re enjoying a sunny day, and this salad is your perfect companion. I love eating it by itself or on pita for a tasty picnic treat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken is great for a lean protein. You could use cooked rotisserie chicken for quicker prep or swap for grilled shrimp for a twist!
Mixed Greens: I love using arugula for a peppery kick, but any mixed greens work. You can also try kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Cucumber: While fresh cucumber adds crunch, if you don’t have any, you can substitute with diced bell peppers or zucchini for freshness in your salad.
Greek Yogurt: If you’re dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt which provides a similar creaminess. Regular yogurt can also work but may be thinner.
How Do I Make the Perfect Tzatziki Sauce?
The tzatziki sauce is key to this recipe, and it’s super simple to make! Start with good quality Greek yogurt for that creamy texture. Remember to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber to avoid a watery sauce.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
- Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
- For best flavor, let it sit in the fridge for a bit so the flavors meld together.
This sauce not only adds flavor to the chicken salad but pairs beautifully with pita or as a dip for veggies too!
Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, or arugula)
- 1 cup cooked bulgur or couscous (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (for garnish)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook the chicken, so you’re looking at a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a lovely meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill or in your skillet. Cook for around 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Once done, take them off the heat, let them rest for a few minutes, and then slice them into strips.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While your chicken is cooking, grab a cucumber, grate it, and then squeeze out any excess moisture using a paper towel or cheesecloth. This keeps the sauce nice and creamy! In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, and taste to adjust seasoning.
4. Assemble the Salad Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! In each bowl, divide the mixed greens and, if you’re using it, the cooked bulgur or couscous. On top of the greens, add your halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, diced red onion, and the sliced chicken.
5. Add the Dressing:
Generously spoon the tzatziki sauce over the salad in each bowl. There’s no such thing as too much tzatziki!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or mint on top for an extra burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad!
Bon appétit! 🌿
FAQ – Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Can I Use a Different Type of Protein?
Absolutely! If chicken isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute it with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different proteins.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce separate to prevent the greens from wilting. When you’re ready to eat, simply reassemble!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can use coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt. Regular yogurt works well too, but it might make the sauce a bit thinner, so adjust with less grated cucumber.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep some elements ahead! Cook the chicken and make the tzatziki sauce a day in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the fridge, and assemble the salad right before serving for the freshest experience!
