This refreshing salad combines juicy rotisserie chicken with cool cucumbers and creamy Greek yogurt. The dill adds a lovely touch that makes it perfect for sunny days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the salad! Using rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie on hand, any cooked chicken will work, or you can use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use plain yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a vegan yogurt alternative.
Dill: Fresh dill brightens the salad with its unique flavor. If fresh dill is hard to find, dried dill is a great substitute. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated—1 tablespoon of dried dill works well.
Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch. If cucumbers are out of season or you want a different flavor, try using diced bell peppers or zucchini for a similar crispness.
Lettuce: Serving on lettuce adds a nice crisp element. You can use any leafy greens like romaine, spinach, or even arugula for a peppery twist.
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Chicken Salad?
The texture is key to a great chicken salad. Start by shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing. Dicing the cucumber and celery into uniform pieces keeps everything balanced. The secret to a creamy texture lies in the yogurt mixture—mix it well so every piece gets coated evenly.
- Combine the yogurt, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper separately for even flavor distribution.
- Once you mix in the chicken and veggies, be gentle with your stirring to keep some crunch from the cucumbers and celery.
- Let it chill in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors; this makes a huge difference!
Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 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 easy and refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, which helps the flavors come together perfectly. So in total, plan for about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced cucumber, and diced celery. Give it a gentle stir to mix them together. This will be the hearty base of your salad!
2. Make the Yogurt Dressing:
In a separate bowl, take your Greek yogurt and combine it with the chopped dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes your salad delicious!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the yogurt dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture. Using a spatula or spoon, stir gently until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Don’t rush this step—getting everyone mixed together leads to great flavor!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your creation! If you feel it needs more flavor, sprinkle in a little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Adjust it to your liking—it’s all about what makes you happy!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets those flavors really meld together. When you’re ready to serve, dish the salad onto a bed of lettuce leaves or use it as a filling for tasty sandwiches. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Can I Use Light Greek Yogurt Instead of Regular?
Yes, light Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute! It will reduce the calorie count while still providing that creamy texture. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor profile, so taste and adjust your seasonings accordingly.
What If I Don’t Have Dill on Hand?
No problem! If you don’t have fresh or dried dill, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or chives for a different flavor. If you want to maintain a similar taste, tarragon or basil can also work in a pinch!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Your chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness! If you’re concerned about the texture, it’s best to skip adding lettuce until serving to avoid sogginess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other favorite vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to keep everything evenly distributed.
