Name: Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk Greek yogurt are best); 1 cup shredded cucumber (excess liquid squeezed out with paper towels); 2-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 4 cups shredded chicken; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped; 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a fresh, tangy, and utterly satisfying salad that bursts with Mediterranean charm, the Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe is your new best friend. This vibrant dish perfectly balances creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, tender shredded chicken, and bright herbs, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s quick to whip up, wonderfully versatile, and just the thing to elevate a simple lunch or light dinner. Trust me, once you try this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe, it will become a staple you reach for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy mixture that has three main parts: shredded light beige pieces, likely chicken, mixed with small dark purple bits and thin green herb strips. The creamy texture is white with speckles of green and purple, showing the herbs and small vegetable pieces blended throughout. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially covered by the mixture. The image gives a close, top-down view showing the mixed layers clearly, with the bowl’s round edges softly reflecting light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that signature refreshing flavor and delightful texture that make this salad stand out. From creamy yogurt to punchy lemon juice and salty feta, these components come together like a symphony for your taste buds.

1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Use 2% or whole milk Greek yogurt for the creamiest, richest base.
1 cup shredded cucumber: Be sure to squeeze out excess liquid to keep the salad from becoming watery.
2-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds bright, zesty freshness that wakes up the salad.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that elevates the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds just the right touch of savory depth without overpowering.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
4 cups shredded chicken: Tender and juicy, providing hearty protein to the salad.
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Adds a sharp bite and a pop of beautiful color.
1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped: Offers a briny, salty contrast that complements the creamy yogurt.
3 ounces crumbled feta cheese: Delivers tangy richness and luscious texture.
2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley: Adds freshness and a splash of green for visual appeal.

How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Base

Start by combining the Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, lemon juice, fresh dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir these ingredients until they are thoroughly blended. This creamy, herb-infused mixture is the heart of your salad, providing that classic tzatziki tang and coolness throughout.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Mix-ins

Next, fold in the shredded chicken, chopped red onion, kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley into the tzatziki mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite is coated in that luscious yogurt dressing. At this point, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. This is where you tailor the flavor just for you.

Step 3: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can serve the salad right away or let it chill for 10 to 15 minutes to meld the flavors even more. Either way, this salad is incredibly satisfying whether cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for quick meals or entertaining guests.

How to Serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Two pita pockets filled with a creamy white mixture with visible chunks of white cheese, small pieces of dark purple olives, and bits of red onion, topped with fresh green herbs. The pita bread is pale beige with a soft texture. The two pita pockets are placed on a white plate with a white marbled background. A halved lemon with a bright yellow color is placed near the pita pockets. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Boost the visual appeal and flavor by sprinkling extra fresh dill, chopped parsley, or a few kalamata olives on top before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can add a subtle richness that ties everything beautifully together.

Side Dishes

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, crunchy vegetable sticks, or a simple side of lemon roasted potatoes. The salad’s zesty creaminess complements both lighter sides and heartier fare, so feel free to get creative.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad scooped into pita pockets for an easy handheld meal or piled atop crisp romaine or mixed greens for a lunchtime classic. You can also turn it into a stacked salad in a glass jar for a portable option or use it as a topping for toasted artisan bread, creating an impressive appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for delicious lunches or quick snack options later in the week.

Freezing

Because of the yogurt and fresh vegetables, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture and flavor of the tzatziki can separate or become watery after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating. If you prefer it warm, consider serving it alongside warm sides rather than heating the salad itself to maintain that refreshing tzatziki character.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds great flavor, making your Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe even easier to whip up.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

Fresh dill adds a lovely brightness, but if you don’t have it, dried dill can work in a pinch—just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more potent.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and omit the feta cheese. Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken for protein.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the shredded cucumber using paper towels. This simple step keeps the salad thick and creamy without excess moisture.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! The Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe holds up well in the fridge and makes a convenient, flavorful option for meal prep lunches or quick dinners.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so instantly satisfying about the bright flavors and creamy texture of this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe. Whether you’re serving it as a lunch, a light dinner, or a party dish, it always brings a fresh, vibrant twist that delights. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this easy, delicious salad just like I have.

Maggie

Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need