Description
Mediterranean sunshine dances through this Tzatziki Chicken Salad, blending Greek flavors with fresh herb-kissed ingredients. Cool yogurt and tender chicken create a light, refreshing meal that whisks you to coastal tavernas with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 cups (473 ml) chicken, shredded or diced
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried dill
Tzatziki and Dressing Components:
- 1 cup (237 ml) Greek yogurt
- ½ cup (118 ml) cucumber, finely grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- ½ cup (118 ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup (59 ml) red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup (59 ml) kalamata olives, sliced
- ¼ cup (59 ml) feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by massaging it with aromatic herbs and spices, ensuring full coverage with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken thoroughly using preferred method (grilling, baking, or pan-frying) until internal temperature reaches 165°F / 75°C.
- Allow the cooked chicken to cool slightly, then carefully shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. (Rotisserie chicken can be used as a time-saving alternative)
- Create the signature tzatziki sauce by whisking Greek yogurt with freshly grated cucumber, drizzling olive oil, and adding bright notes of lemon juice and red wine vinegar.
- Incorporate minced garlic, chopped dill, and season with salt and pepper, blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken with vibrant cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, briny olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Generously pour the tzatziki dressing over the chicken mixture, gently folding to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate briefly to allow flavors to meld or serve immediately at a comfortable temperature.
- Enjoy this versatile dish nestled in crisp lettuce wraps, tucked inside warm pita bread, as a hearty sandwich filling, or simply savored as a refreshing standalone salad.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken by marinating in olive oil, herbs, and spices for enhanced flavor and juiciness before cooking.
- Drain grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery tzatziki sauce, using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Customize the salad for dietary needs by substituting dairy-free yogurt, omitting feta, or using plant-based protein alternatives like grilled tofu or chickpeas.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time and store separately to maintain crispness, mixing dressing and components just before serving for optimal texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg