This chicken salad is refreshing and bright, mixing crunchy cucumbers with creamy Greek yogurt. Dill adds a zesty touch that makes it stand out!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just chop, mix, and you’re ready to go. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a summer picnic. Who doesn’t love a cool dish on a hot day? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach some chicken breast if you’re starting from scratch. Canned chicken also works in a pinch.
Cucumber: Persian or English cucumbers are great for their crisp texture. If they’re unavailable, you can substitute with diced bell peppers or zucchini for a different crunch.
Greek Yogurt: This gives creaminess without the added fat of mayo. For a lighter option, swap it with plain nonfat yogurt, or use sour cream for a tangier flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill really makes this dish shine. If you don’t have it, dried dill works too, just use less since it’s more concentrated. If you dislike dill, try parsley or chives for a different flavor.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness! You can substitute with lime juice, or even a bit of vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Chicken Salad?
The texture is key to making a great chicken salad. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Shred or dice the chicken into small, even pieces so every bite has flavor.
- When dicing the cucumber, try to remove excess water by patting them dry with a paper towel. This keeps the salad from becoming soggy.
- Add diced celery for crunch, but make sure it’s cut finely so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
- Mix everything gently. Over-mixing can make the chicken mushy. You want it well combined but still chunky.
These tips will help you create a balanced and satisfying salad every time! Enjoy your delicious and refreshing chicken salad!
Easy Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional, for extra crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In just under an hour, you’ll have a fresh and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the cooked chicken, diced cucumber, and optional diced celery. If you like extra crunch, the celery is a great choice, but it’s entirely up to you!
2. Add the Creamy Elements:
Now, spoon in the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, and lemon juice. These ingredients will add creaminess and flavor to your salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Using a spoon, mix all the ingredients together thoroughly. You want to ensure that the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with the yogurt and flavors. Be gentle to keep the chicken pieces nice and chunky!
4. Season to Taste:
Once everything is mixed, add salt and pepper according to your taste. Don’t be shy—this enhances all the flavors!
5. Chill and Set:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to come together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your salad is ready to go! You can serve it cold on its own, use it as a filling for sandwiches, or even place it over a bed of greens for a delightful meal. Enjoy your refreshing cucumber dill yogurt chicken salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or dice it for a quick and easy meal!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt or even sour cream if you prefer. Both will still give a creamy texture, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! This chicken salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually improve as they meld together!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, serve it cold or let it come to room temperature before eating.
