This refreshing salad combines juicy rotisserie chicken, crisp cucumbers, and tangy dill mixed with creamy Greek yogurt. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that’s easy on the tummy!
Honestly, making this salad is a breeze! I love using leftover chicken, and it’s always a hit during warm days or picnics. Serve it with pita chips, and you’re set for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the salad, bringing flavor and convenience. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use any cooked chicken, like grilled or poached. Shredded canned chicken can work in a pinch too.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. You can substitute it with sour cream or regular yogurt if that’s what you have. I’ve even used a dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version, and it worked well!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber gives a nice crunch. If cucumbers aren’t in season, try using zucchini instead; just grate it and squeeze out the excess moisture to keep the salad from being soggy.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill offers a unique flavor that shines in this salad. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill will do—just use about a third of the amount since dried is stronger. I often mix in a bit of parsley for added freshness.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens up the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice can serve as a good substitute. I’ve also used apple cider vinegar when I’m out of citrus!
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Salad is Well-Coated with Dressing?
The key to a creamy and flavorful salad is in how you mix the dressing. Start by making sure the yogurt mixture is smooth and well combined before adding it to the chicken and vegetables. This helps every bite have that delightful flavor.
- In a large bowl, first mix the chicken, cucumber, and celery.
- Then, whisk the Greek yogurt and other ingredients together until there are no lumps.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, and use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold everything together. Make sure to coat evenly without breaking up the chicken too much!
Don’t forget to taste your salad once it’s mixed. Adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference. This little step makes all the difference in balance!
Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick since you’re using rotisserie chicken! Feel free to refrigerate the salad for a short time before serving for extra coolness if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Chicken and Vegetables:
Grab a large mixing bowl and place the shredded rotisserie chicken in it. Add in the diced cucumber and diced celery. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. It’s all about that fresh crunch!
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It should turn into a smooth and creamy dressing. Taste a little bit and see how it’s coming along!
3. Combining Everything:
Now, pour the yummy yogurt mixture over the chicken and veggie mix in the big bowl. Stir everything together gently so that all the ingredients are nicely coated with that delicious dressing.
4. Adjusting the Flavor:
Give your salad a taste and see if you want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten things up. It’s all about making it just right for your taste buds!
5. Serving and Storing:
You can serve your chicken salad in crisp lettuce leaves or enjoy it on its own. If you have any leftovers, simply store them in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, try using plain low-fat yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt can work well. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust your seasonings if needed!
How Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this salad! Just shred or chop the chicken finely and use it in the recipe as directed. This is a great way to repurpose rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken you have on hand.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain a balanced consistency in the salad.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the salad separate from the lettuce leaves until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Stir well before serving, and enjoy it cold!
