The Mediterranean Delight Tzatziki Chicken Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a refreshing invitation to slow down and savor the sun-kissed flavors of the coastlines of Greece and beyond. Imagine walking through a bustling Mediterranean market, vibrant with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta. This salad brings that experience to your table.
It reminds me of a trip to a small Greek village where a local taverna owner shared her family’s tzatziki recipe—tangy, garlicky, and full of fresh dill. That tzatziki became the base of so many memorable meals, but none more comforting and energizing than a chicken salad tossed in its creamy goodness. Now, I recreate that moment with this easy recipe at the start of every warm-weather season, and it’s always a crowd favorite during lunches, picnics, and meal prep Sundays.
The blend of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and smooth, herb-flecked tzatziki creates a dish that feels indulgent and yet incredibly nourishing. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, incorporate more protein, or simply craving something crisp and satisfying, this Mediterranean salad checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Mediterranean Flavor: Bursting with garlic, dill, lemon, and feta.
- Healthy & Light: High in protein and naturally low in carbs and gluten-free.
- Quick & Easy: Only 15 minutes to prep—no cooking required if using pre-cooked chicken.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for lunches, light dinners, or picnics.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
For the Tzatziki Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Delight Tzatziki Chicken Salad
This dish is as easy as it is flavorful. Here’s how you can bring a bit of Mediterranean magic to your kitchen in just a few steps.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- Make the Tzatziki Dressing
Start by preparing the dressing so the flavors can mingle. Grate the cucumber using the coarse side of a grater, then squeeze out all the excess water with your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
In a bowl, combine the drained cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it chill in the fridge while you prep the salad.
- Assemble the Chicken Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta. Add in your chopped parsley or dill for extra freshness. - Toss and Serve
Pour the chilled tzatziki dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in that creamy, herby goodness. Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the flavors develop even more.
Helpful Tips
- Drain the Cucumber Thoroughly: Too much water will dilute the dressing. Squeeze well.
- Use Fresh Dill for Best Flavor: It adds a cooling, authentic Mediterranean taste.
- Shortcut Option: Use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Chill Before Serving: For best results, refrigerate for 30 minutes before eating.
- Serving Ideas: Scoop it into pita bread, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or serve on a bed of arugula.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed within three days for optimal freshness.
- You can double the batch of tzatziki and use it throughout the week as a dip or sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, cooked turkey breast works just as well and keeps the dish lean.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the Greek yogurt for a coconut-based or almond-based yogurt alternative.
Can I add grains like quinoa?
Definitely! Adding a half cup of cooked quinoa gives extra bulk and fiber.
Is this salad good for picnics?
Yes! Just keep it chilled in an insulated container until ready to serve.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the yogurt will separate and become watery after thawing.
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Conclusion
The Mediterranean Delight Tzatziki Chicken Salad brings fresh, clean ingredients together in a way that’s simple yet indulgent. With each bite, you get juicy chicken, crunchy cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta, all wrapped in a cooling, garlicky tzatziki. It’s not just food—it’s a little Mediterranean getaway on a plate.
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Mediterranean Delight Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Description
The Mediterranean Delight Tzatziki Chicken Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a refreshing invitation to slow down and savor the sun-kissed flavors of the coastlines of Greece and beyond. Imagine walking through a bustling Mediterranean market, vibrant with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta. This salad brings that experience to your table.
It reminds me of a trip to a small Greek village where a local taverna owner shared her family’s tzatziki recipe—tangy, garlicky, and full of fresh dill. That tzatziki became the base of so many memorable meals, but none more comforting and energizing than a chicken salad tossed in its creamy goodness. Now, I recreate that moment with this easy recipe at the start of every warm-weather season, and it’s always a crowd favorite during lunches, picnics, and meal prep Sundays.
The blend of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and smooth, herb-flecked tzatziki creates a dish that feels indulgent and yet incredibly nourishing. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, incorporate more protein, or simply craving something crisp and satisfying, this Mediterranean salad checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- For the Tzatziki Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogur
- ½ cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Make the Tzatziki Dressing
Start by preparing the dressing so the flavors can mingle. Grate the cucumber using the coarse side of a grater, then squeeze out all the excess water with your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
In a bowl, combine the drained cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it chill in the fridge while you prep the salad. -
Assemble the Chicken Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta. Add in your chopped parsley or dill for extra freshness.
-
Toss and Serve
Pour the chilled tzatziki dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in that creamy, herby goodness. Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the flavors develop even more.
Notes
-
This salad is best enjoyed within three days for optimal freshness.
-
You can double the batch of tzatziki and use it throughout the week as a dip or sauce.