This refreshing Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad is all about delicious flavors! With tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, and crunchy veggies, every bite is a delight.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you have a tasty meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and trust me, leftovers disappear quickly around here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for ease. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s a great shortcut! Shredded chicken works well, too.
Olive Oil: Adds flavor and moisture. You can substitute with avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil if needed.
Bulgur Wheat or Couscous: These add texture to your salad. If you’re gluten-free, quinoa is a fantastic substitute. This also adds a nice nutty flavor.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for the tzatziki sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, exchange it for low-fat yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt made from almond or coconut.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a unique flavor to tzatziki. If you can’t find it, try using dried dill or even mint for a different twist!
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken breasts perfectly is key! Here’s how to ensure they stay juicy and tender:
- First, pat the chicken dry to help it brown nicely.
- Season them well with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper before cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too often; let them get a good sear!
- Check doneness by making sure the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest before slicing, as this helps retain moisture.
With these tips, your chicken will be juicy and delicious every time!
Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 cup cooked bulgur wheat or couscous
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This tasty salad takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the chicken, 5 minutes whipping up the tzatziki sauce, and then about 10 minutes putting everything together. It’s a quick, healthy meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry; this allows them to sear better. Season them on both sides with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. This gives them a nice flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear when pierced. Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is blended. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve—it will taste even better as it chills!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In serving bowls, create a base with the chopped romaine or mixed greens. Add a layer of cooked bulgur wheat or couscous on top of the greens.
5. Add the Toppings:
Layer the sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, diced red onion, and fresh parsley over the greens and grains.
6. Drizzle the Tzatziki Sauce:
Generously drizzle the tzatziki sauce over the top of the salad or serve it on the side for dipping. It’s up to you!
7. Toss and Enjoy:
If you like, toss everything together lightly so the flavors mix. Enjoy your fresh and delicious Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad!
This recipe serves about 2-3 people, making it a perfect healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a great option. Just shred or chop it and add it to the salad—no need to cook it again!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best to keep the tzatziki sauce separate to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. Just mix it in before serving!
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully and enhance the taste!
What Can I Substitute for Bulgur Wheat?
If you’re not a fan of bulgur wheat or have dietary restrictions, quinoa is a fantastic gluten-free substitute. You can also use cooked rice or even whole-grain couscous for a different texture!
