Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Name: Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484766H52M39S
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 medium cucumber, finely grated; ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1 cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; ½ red onion, diced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something about creamy, herb-laced chicken salad that always brings me back to childhood summer lunches on the porch with my mom. She loved keeping things simple, and tzatziki was her secret weapon—a quick, no-fuss way to add Mediterranean flair to basic ingredients. Now that I’m often helping beginner cooks find their confidence in the kitchen, I keep coming back to this fresh and tangy dish. This tzatziki chicken salad is more than just a quick and healthy meal—it’s a flexible, forgiving recipe perfect for new cooks who want something nutritious without the fuss. No stove needed, minimal prep, and you’ll still impress yourself (and maybe others too).

Why This Recipe is Special

This isn’t your average chicken salad. It’s lighter, brighter, and packed with flavor thanks to Greek tzatziki sauce. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time, while fresh herbs and yogurt bring in that vibrant homemade touch. The recipe is perfect for meal prep, picnics, work lunches, or those “I-don’t-want-to-cook” evenings. It’s gluten-free by default and can be served in multiple ways—from pita pockets to lettuce wraps—which makes it especially beginner-friendly and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients and Preparation

Rotisserie Chicken
Adds savory depth and is incredibly convenient for quick meals. You can also use grilled or baked chicken.

Cucumber
Offers a fresh crunch and keeps the dish cool and light. Grate and squeeze out moisture to keep the sauce thick.
Greek Yogurt
Serves as the creamy base. It’s rich in protein, tangy, and a healthier swap for mayo.
Fresh Dill
A key herb in tzatziki, providing bright, slightly citrusy undertones.

Lemon Juice
Brings acidity that balances the creaminess of the yogurt and enhances flavor.
Garlic
Just a bit for that pungent, aromatic kick. Fresh is best here.
Salt and Pepper
Essential to bring all the flavors together.

Red Onion
Adds sharpness and crunch, giving the salad some bite and balance.

Alternatives and Add-ins:

Use chopped parsley or mint if dill isn’t available.

Substitute sour cream or non-dairy yogurt for a different base.
Add extras like cherry tomatoes, olives, or feta to vary the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Start by grating the cucumber using a box grater or food processor, then wrap it in a clean towel or several paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as you can to avoid a watery salad.

Step 2 In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumber with Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well-blended—this is your flavorful tzatziki base.

Step 3 Shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it directly to the bowl with the tzatziki. Mix gently so the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 4 Dice the red onion and stir it into the mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (a bit more lemon juice or dill can brighten the flavors even more).

Step 5 Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving if possible. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up slightly.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Too watery? This usually means the cucumber wasn’t squeezed enough. Use a fine mesh strainer next time or press it between two plates.
Chicken too dry? Add a little extra yogurt or a splash of olive oil to moisten it up.

Make-ahead hack: Prep the tzatziki base in advance and store it separately from the chicken. Combine just before serving for ultimate freshness.
No rotisserie chicken? Any cooked chicken works. Use leftovers or even canned chicken in a pinch.
No fresh dill? Use 1 tsp dried dill instead—but fresh makes a big difference here.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed in Pita Bread
Add sliced tomatoes and lettuce for a satisfying sandwich-style lunch.
On Top of Mixed Greens
Makes a hearty salad—drizzle with olive oil or a little extra lemon.
With Crackers or Pita Chips
Perfect for snacking or a quick no-cook meal.

In Lettuce Wraps
Great low-carb option that still feels indulgent.

Leftover Tips:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing if possible—Greek yogurt doesn’t hold up well in texture after thawing.

Conclusion

Tzatziki chicken salad is one of those go-to recipes that’s hard to mess up but always delivers big on flavor. It’s a simple, quick, and healthy meal that can be tweaked to fit your taste and needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy sheet pan dinner alternative or just someone who wants a light lunch that still satisfies, this lemon herb chicken recipe should absolutely be on your radar. Give it a try and let us know how it went—drop your twist on it in the comments, we’d love to hear how you made it your own!

FAQ About Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but keep in mind that regular yogurt is thinner than Greek yogurt, which may result in a more watery sauce. You can strain it through a cheesecloth to thicken it before use.

What type of chicken is best for this salad?

Rotisserie chicken is ideal because it’s already cooked and flavorful, making this recipe quick and easy. However, any shredded, cooked chicken like grilled, baked, or poached works just as well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Tzatziki chicken salad can be made up to 3–4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s a great make-ahead lunch or dinner option.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the salad itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to pair it with gluten-free sides like lettuce cups or gluten-free pita and crackers if needed.

More Relevant Recipes

Easy Egg Salad with Dill