Save Last summer, my neighbor brought over a rotisserie chicken after we spent the afternoon gardening in that overwhelming July heat. Too tired to cook properly, I started improvising with what I had in the refrigerator, and ended up tossing together this salad that saved our dinner. Now it is the thing I make when I want something filling but refuse to turn on the stove.
I made this for a book club meeting last month, and everyone kept asking for the recipe instead of discussing the book we were supposed to have read. Watching people go back for third servings made me realize how something this simple can feel like such a treat.
Ingredients
- Rotisserie chicken: Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves so much time, and the seasoning from the chicken adds extra flavor to the salad
- Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt creates that luxuriously creamy texture, but I have used low-fat in a pinch and it still works beautifully
- Cucumber: Grating the cucumber instead of chopping distributes the fresh crunch throughout every single bite
- Fresh dill: I have tried dried dill in a pinch, but fresh makes such a huge difference in the authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Red onion: The sharp bite of red onion cuts through the rich yogurt and creates that perfect flavor balance
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon is non-negotiable here, as bottled juice lacks that bright acidic punch
Instructions
- Prep your cucumber:
- Grate the cucumber using the large holes of your box grater, then wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible
- Whisk together the tzatziki:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until everything is well incorporated
- Combine everything:
- Place your shredded chicken in a large bowl, pour the tzatziki sauce over the top, and gently fold until every piece of chicken is coated in that creamy sauce
- Add the crunch:
- Fold in the diced red onion and any optional ingredients you are using, being careful not to overmix and mash the avocado or tomatoes
- Let it rest:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes, though I have found that letting it sit for a few hours makes the flavors even better
Save This recipe has become my go-to when friends drop by unexpectedly, and I love that I can have it ready in under twenty minutes.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I swap out the dill for fresh mint when I want a different flavor profile, or I add both herbs together for something extra bright.
Serving Suggestions
My family loves scooping this salad onto warm pita bread, but it is just as satisfying served over a bed of crisp mixed greens.
Storage And Meal Prep
This salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for two to three days, and the flavors actually develop and improve over time. I often make a double batch on Sunday for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the avocado from oxidizing if you include it
- If taking for lunch, pack greens separately and assemble right before eating
- The tzatziki sauce may separate slightly, but just give it a quick stir and it will be perfect
Save There is something so satisfying about a recipe that comes together this easily yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I prevent the cucumber from making the dressing watery?
To avoid a watery dressing, thoroughly grate your cucumber and then squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. This step is crucial for a thick, creamy tzatziki.
- → Can I prepare the tzatziki sauce in advance?
Yes, you can certainly make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time. In fact, preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- → What are some great ways to serve this dish?
This versatile dish is fantastic served chilled over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. It also makes a delicious filling for pita pockets or lettuce wraps. For a lighter snack, enjoy it with cucumber slices or bell pepper strips.
- → How long does this dish stay fresh in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Ensure it's kept chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Can I use different chicken, not just rotisserie?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use any cooked, shredded chicken. Poached or baked chicken breast works perfectly. Just make sure it's cooled and shredded before mixing.
- → Are there any substitutions for fresh dill?
If fresh dill isn't available, you could use a smaller amount of dried dill, though the flavor won't be as bright. Fresh mint is another excellent substitute or addition that complements Mediterranean flavors beautifully.