This Tzatziki Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s like a Greek picnic in a bowl!
Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s super easy to make. I love serving it in pita pockets for a fun twist. Plus, who can resist that cool, tangy flavor? Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here for its convenience. You can also use leftover chicken or even turkey!
Greek Yogurt: The base of your tzatziki, Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain regular yogurt will do. For dairy-free, try unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt.
Cucumber: Finely diced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. If cucumbers aren’t available, you could substitute with diced bell peppers or zucchini.
Herbs (Dill and Parsley): Fresh herbs boost flavor significantly! If you can’t find fresh dill, you can use dried dill (1/3 of the fresh amount). Either chives or cilantro can replace parsley if that’s what you have.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon will do.
How Do I Mix Everything Together for the Best Flavor?
Mixing the ingredients properly is key for a well-balanced flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- In a large bowl, start with the Greek yogurt, then add the shredded chicken.
- Stir in the finely diced cucumber, dill, parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Mix everything until it’s well combined, making sure the chicken is evenly coated. This helps all those delicious flavors blend together.
- Finally, taste your mixture! Adjust with salt and pepper to suit your liking—don’t skip this step, as it makes a big difference!
How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup cucumber, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 whole wheat pitas
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tzatziki Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner. You’ll have everything assembled and on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are nicely combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking, and give it another good stir.
2. Warm the Pitas:
Next, prepare the whole wheat pitas. You can do this by gently warming them in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat for a minute or two. This will make them softer and easier to fill.
3. Assemble the Pitas:
Now it’s time to fill those pita pockets! Take a warm pita and spoon in a generous amount of the tzatziki chicken salad mixture. Be sure to load it up with plenty of delicious filling!
4. Add Fresh Toppings:
Top your flavorful chicken salad with slices of fresh tomato and thinly sliced red onion for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. You can add as much or as little as you like.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Tzatziki Chicken Salad immediately while the pitas are still warm. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal on its own or with some additional sides if you prefer. Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Yogurt?
Absolutely! While Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt. Just be aware that the texture might be a bit thinner, so you may need to adjust the seasoning slightly to compensate.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tzatziki chicken salad a few hours in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to add the tomatoes and onions right before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep the pitas crispy, store them separately in a cool, dry place. Refill them right before eating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even some diced avocado for extra creaminess. Just be mindful of moisture, as it can make the salad too runny.
