If you’re looking for a refreshing, flavorful, and healthy dish that feels like a Mediterranean vacation on your plate, the Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe is your new best friend. This salad combines tender baked chicken with a creamy, tangy tzatziki dressing made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Tossed with crisp mixed greens and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a dinner with friends, or even meal prep. Every bite bursts with bright, herbaceous flavors that make you crave another forkful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in the overall taste and texture of the salad. From the tender chicken breast to the creamy tzatziki sauce, every component adds its own character to the dish.
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: The lean protein base that stays juicy and tender when baked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the chicken brown beautifully in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that pairs perfectly with chicken and tzatziki flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy base for the tzatziki dressing that keeps things light and fresh.
- 1/2 cucumber, grated: Provides a crisp, juicy crunch and refreshes the palate.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and lifts all the flavors in the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Offers a subtle anise-like aroma that’s signature to tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and color to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a mild sharpness and crunch to the tzatziki sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing): Helps emulsify the salad dressing and adds a smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Delivers a tangy acidity to balance the salad.
- 2 cups mixed salad greens: The verdant, crisp base for the salad, like baby spinach and arugula.
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Pops of sweetness and bright color to round out the fresh flavors.
How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper makes clean-up a breeze. Place your chicken breasts on the sheet, then drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil. Next, sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides to infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for five minutes after baking to lock in those juicy juices.
Step 2: Whip Up the Tzatziki Dressing
While the chicken rests, it’s time to make the star dressing. Grab a medium bowl and combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, fresh dill, and parsley. Stir until everything is harmoniously blended. Toss in the finely chopped red onion for a little crunch and pop of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed. This creamy, cooling sauce brings vibrant zest and texture to the salad.
Step 3: Slice the Chicken and Toss the Salad
Once rested, slice your chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes—whatever you prefer. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil and red wine vinegar to create a simple but flavorful dressing for the greens. Combine your salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle on the dressing and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Finally, spoon the luscious tzatziki dressing over the mixture and toss once more so every piece is beautifully coated and bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley really takes this dish to the next level. Their fresh aroma and vivid green color add extra visual appeal and a burst of flavor right before serving. You could also add a few crumbled feta cheese pieces for an extra creamy, salty touch.
Side Dishes
This salad is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with warm pita bread or crispy garlic bread rounds things out beautifully. For a more substantial dinner, a side of lemony roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables complements the salad’s fresh, tangy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad chilled in glass bowls or on rustic wooden boards for a modern Mediterranean vibe. You can also scoop it into hollowed-out pita pockets for a handheld lunch or pile it onto toasted crostini as a delightful appetizer. The versatility of this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe lets you tailor presentation to the occasion with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the salad and tzatziki dressing separately if you want to maintain the fresh texture of the greens and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
Because this salad incorporates fresh greens and a yogurt-based dressing, freezing is not recommended. The cucumbers and greens will lose their texture, and the dressing may separate when thawed.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy this salad warm, reheat just the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, then toss it with fresh salad greens and tzatziki. Avoid heating the entire salad to keep the greens crisp and the dressing cool and refreshing.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of dill and parsley?
Absolutely! While dill and parsley are traditional in tzatziki and add classic flavor, you can experiment with mint or cilantro for a different twist. Just keep the quantities moderate so the flavors don’t overpower the salad.
Is Greek yogurt essential for this recipe?
Greek yogurt is ideal because it’s thick and creamy, which helps achieve the right texture and tangy flavor for the tzatziki dressing. If you need a substitute, try strained plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt will give you the best result.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies or chickpeas instead. The tzatziki dressing is versatile and delicious on its own tossed with hearty greens, grains like quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare all components ahead, but it’s best to toss the salad just before serving to preserve the freshness of the greens and the creamy texture of the tzatziki. Store components separately in the fridge.
What’s the best way to grate cucumber for the tzatziki?
Use a fine grater or box grater, then gently squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture prevents the dressing from becoming watery and keeps the flavors concentrated.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of fresh, vibrant salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture, and this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe hits all those marks beautifully. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with Mediterranean flair—perfect to brighten up any meal. I hope you give it a try soon, whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday lunch or impressing guests with a stunning, fresh dish. Trust me, once you taste the perfect blend of creamy tzatziki with juicy chicken and crisp greens, it’ll become one of your favorite recipes too!
Print
Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Tzatziki Chicken Salad combines tender baked chicken breasts with a fresh, creamy Greek yogurt-based tzatziki dressing. Enhanced with cucumber, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon and vinegar dressing, this salad offers a refreshing and healthy meal option perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tzatziki Dressing
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Salad & Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken breasts.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Olive Oil Drizzle: Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts to keep them moist and add flavor.
- Season Chicken: Evenly sprinkle garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts to infuse them with savory flavors.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the seasoned chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for juicier meat.
- Make Tzatziki Dressing: While the chicken is resting, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, chopped dill, and chopped parsley in a medium bowl to create the creamy tzatziki base.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir the tzatziki ingredients until well combined, ensuring the flavors meld together smoothly.
- Add Red Onion: Incorporate the finely chopped red onion into the tzatziki mixture and give it another good stir to evenly distribute the onion.
- Season Dressing: Taste the tzatziki and adjust with salt or pepper if desired to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Slice Chicken: Cut the rested chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes, making them easier to mix and eat in the salad.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of red wine vinegar to create a light vinaigrette for the salad greens.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken to start building the salad.
- Add Vinaigrette: Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate Tzatziki: Spoon the prepared tzatziki dressing over the salad and toss again until every bite is flavored with the creamy, herbaceous sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra fresh dill or parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to rest the chicken after baking to keep it juicy and tender.
- If you prefer a thicker tzatziki, strain the grated cucumber to remove excess moisture before mixing.
- Use fresh herbs for the best vibrant flavor in the dressing.
- You can prepare the tzatziki dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for deeper flavor.
- This salad can be served as a light main dish or a hearty side.
