Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
If you are craving a salad that is fresh, flavorful, and bursts with wholesome goodness, this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a delightful mix of tender chicken, crisp cucumber, and zesty lemon dressing that comes together in no time for a refreshing meal that feels light yet satisfying. Perfect for warm days or whenever you want something healthy and easy, this salad brings a lovely crunch from the cucumber and an herby brightness from fresh dill, making it a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe plays an important role in creating layers of texture and flavor. From creamy Greek yogurt to fresh dill, these simple components transform this salad into a vibrant, tasty dish you will love.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or diced chicken for tender protein that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
- 1 large cucumber: Thinly sliced or diced, it adds a cool crunch and hydrating freshness.
- 1/4 red onion: Thinly sliced to bring a sharp, slightly sweet bite without overpowering the salad.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley: Herbs lift the overall flavor and add a pop of green color.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise: Provides creamy texture and tang, balancing the crisp veggies.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps to gently meld all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Gives the salad a bright, citrusy zing that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Lends a bit of warmth and mild spice to the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
How to Make Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by combining Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these together in a large bowl until you have a smooth, creamy dressing that promises to coat each bite with tangy richness.
Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients
Next, toss in your shredded or diced chicken, cucumber slices, red onion, and chopped dill or parsley. Use gentle folding motions to evenly coat every element with the dressing, ensuring that each forkful delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Chill and Marinate
For the best taste, cover the bowl and chill your salad in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This short resting time allows all those fresh ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the vibrant, zesty character that makes this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chopped herbs like dill or parsley on top for a fresh look and an aromatic lift. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a few lemon zest curls can also elevate the presentation and flavor experience.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or pita for dipping, or serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal. Because it’s light yet filling, it complements almost any dish without overshadowing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in crisp lettuce cups or inside a halved avocado for a trendy and inviting twist. For a picnic or lunchbox, it works equally well stuffed into a whole-grain wrap or layered inside a sandwich for a quick, bright meal on-the-go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2 days, though the cucumber may soften slightly over time.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh since freezing can alter the texture of the cucumbers and dressing. For make-ahead convenience, consider freezing cooked chicken separately, then mixing fresh ingredients just before serving.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary or recommended, as this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe shines when served cold. If desired, allow leftovers to come to room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor while saving time, making this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe even easier to whip up.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt alternative can be used to maintain that creamy texture and tangy profile.
How do I keep the cucumber from making the salad watery?
Try salting the cucumber slices lightly and letting them sit in a colander for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture before adding them to the salad.
Is it okay to add other veggies to this salad?
Yes! Adding crunchy celery, slivered almonds, or even diced bell peppers can add texture and crunch without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Can this salad be used as a sandwich filling?
Definitely! This salad makes a fantastic sandwich or wrap filling, providing a light yet satisfying alternative to traditional chicken salad options.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll give this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe a go soon—it’s one of those easy, flavorful dishes that’s perfect anytime you want something fresh and wholesome with minimal fuss. Whether for a quick lunch or a picnic treat, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Enjoy every vibrant, cooling bite!
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Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This refreshing Cucumber Chicken Salad combines tender cooked chicken with crisp cucumber and red onion, tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing flavored with lemon, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. Perfectly light and nutritious, it’s ideal for a quick lunch or a healthy summer meal served chilled on its own, in lettuce wraps, or sandwiches.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Salad Ingredients: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken, thinly sliced cucumber, red onion, and chopped fresh dill or parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring the flavors meld throughout the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill properly.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad cold on its own, or use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or sandwiches for a light, refreshing meal.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery or slivered almonds to the salad.
- To make the recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free yogurt or skip the yogurt altogether and use all mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
