Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Tired of heavy, bland chicken salads? This Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful twist that will change your mind. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, crisp cucumber, and a creamy Greek yogurt base, it’s a lighter yet incredibly satisfying option.Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for chicken salad lovers and skeptics alike. It ditches the heavy mayonnaise for protein-rich Greek yogurt, creating a light and creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. The addition of fresh dill, crisp cucumber, and zesty lemon juice provides a burst of freshness that makes this salad perfect for any occasion, especially on a warm day. Plus, it comes together in under 10 minutes, making it an ideal quick and healthy meal.Ingredients
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, chopped and chilled
- 2/3 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/3 cup green onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup seedless cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped green onion, chopped cucumber, chopped celery, chopped parsley, dried dill, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Stir all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and the chicken is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- For best results and to maintain the crispness of the cucumber, it is recommended to add the cucumber right before serving if making this salad ahead of time.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
For the best flavor and texture, use good quality rotisserie chicken. The depth of flavor from a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is superior to canned chicken or plain grilled chicken. When choosing your Greek yogurt, full-fat will give you the creamiest texture, but you can opt for lower-fat versions if preferred. If you are making this salad ahead of time, consider adding the cucumber just before serving to prevent it from becoming watery and losing its satisfying crunch.Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this salad to your liking. If you’re not a fan of dill, try fresh chives or tarragon. For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the amount of lemon juice. For a different texture, you can add chopped bell peppers or a sprinkle of toasted almonds. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used, though fresh will provide a brighter flavor.Serving Suggestions
This versatile Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is delicious served in a variety of ways. Enjoy it on a bed of fresh lettuce greens for a light lunch, scoop it onto whole-grain toast for a satisfying sandwich, or serve it in mini lettuce cups for a healthy appetizer. It also pairs wonderfully with crackers or as a filling for pita bread.Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Store any leftover Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Due to the fresh cucumber and Greek yogurt, this salad is not recommended for freezing, as the texture can become compromised upon thawing. If you need to reheat, it’s best to do so gently in a microwave on low power or enjoy it cold.Nutrition Information
| Calories | 116 |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 655g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Protein | 10g |
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
FAQ
Can I use pre-cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken breast. Ensure it is seasoned well, as rotisserie chicken often has more flavor.
How can I make this chicken salad less watery?
To prevent the salad from becoming watery, especially if making it ahead of time, wait to add the chopped cucumber until just before serving. Also, ensure your Greek yogurt is well-drained if it has excess liquid.
Can I substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt?
You can substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, but it will change the nutritional profile and the overall lightness of the salad. If you choose to do so, you might prefer a combination of both for creaminess and flavor.
How long does this chicken salad last in the refrigerator?
This chicken salad will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
A lightened-up and flavorful chicken salad made with rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, and crisp cucumber. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped green onion, chopped cucumber, chopped celery, chopped parsley, dried dill, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Stir all ingredients together until completely combined and well incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately on a bed of greens, toasted whole grain bread, or a hamburger bun.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
If making ahead, wait to add the cucumber until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming watery and to maintain crispness. Using leftover rotisserie chicken provides a deeper flavor than canned or plain grilled chicken. Full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for creaminess, but a lighter version can be used. If using a lighter Greek yogurt, consider a 1:1 ratio with mayonnaise for a similar texture.