This Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is bright and tasty! With crunchy cucumbers, tender chicken, and a hint of lemon, it’s perfect for a quick meal or snack.
I love how refreshing this salad feels, especially on warm days. It’s easy to whip up and keeps well, so I can enjoy it for lunch throughout the week! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: I like to use grilled or rotisserie chicken for easy preparation. If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded turkey works well too, or you can use canned chicken in a pinch!
Cucumber: A medium cucumber adds great crunch! If you can’t find fresh cucumbers, try using diced celery for a similar crunch or baby dill pickles for a tangy twist.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice color and mild flavor. You can substitute with green onions if you prefer a milder taste or even shallots for a sweeter taste.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill brightens the dish, but if you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works too. Just use about 1/3 of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Greek Yogurt: I love Greek yogurt for its creaminess and health benefits, but you can swap it with regular yogurt, sour cream, or mayonnaise based on your preference.
How Do I Prepare the Chicken for This Salad?
Getting your chicken ready is a crucial step! For a great salad, you want it cooked through and then cooled. Here’s how:
- Boil: Place whole chicken breasts in water, bring it to a boil, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked.
- Grill: Season your chicken and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), season chicken, and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Let it cool: Allow the chicken to cool down before dicing it to avoid burning your hands!
Once cooled, dice into bite-sized pieces so it’s easy to mix with the other ingredients!
Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe – Easy & Healthy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious meal in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook and Cool the Chicken:
To start, you’ll need to prepare the chicken breast. You can boil, grill, or bake it until fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes for boiling or 25-30 minutes for baking at 375°F / 190°C). Once cooked, let it cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prep the Vegetables:
Next, grab your cucumber. Peel it if you like, then chop it into small cubes. Do the same with the red onion, making sure to finely chop it. Lastly, finely chop the fresh dill for added flavor.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, cucumber, chopped red onion, and dill. Give it a gentle mix to combine the ingredients evenly.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until everything is smooth. This will be your creamy dressing!
5. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and veggies are well coated in the dressing.
6. Season and Chill:
Season your salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, after it has chilled, your Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it cold as a wholesome meal on its own or serve it on a bed of greens or with some crusty bread on the side.
This salad is deliciously light, nutritious, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
FAQ
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just dice it up and follow the rest of the instructions. It saves time and adds great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise or a mix of sour cream and mayonnaise for a rich taste. You can also use plain yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. Just be aware that the cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Add Other Veggies to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Chopped bell peppers, celery, or even tomatoes can add extra crunch and flavor. Just ensure you maintain a balance so the salad doesn’t become too watery.
