Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

The Ultimate Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Freshness

Summers call for light, refreshing meals that pack incredible flavor into every bite.

This creamy tzatziki chicken salad delivers Mediterranean-inspired goodness that turns an ordinary lunch into a delightful culinary experience.

Tender chicken pieces dance with cool, tangy yogurt and crisp cucumber chunks.

Fresh herbs like dill and mint add bright, zesty notes to each forkful.

The tzatziki-style dressing brings a classic Greek twist that makes this salad stand out from typical recipes.

Crunchy vegetables and juicy chicken create a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Whip up this simple yet sophisticated salad and transport your taste buds to the sunny coastlines of Greece.

Fun Mix-Ins for Your Next Tzatziki Chicken Salad

  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Salad: Replace oregano with za'atar seasoning and add fresh mint leaves for an aromatic Middle Eastern flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Greek Salad: Swap romaine lettuce with mixed greens or baby spinach to reduce carbohydrate content and enhance nutrient density.
  • Vegetarian Greek Bowl: Substitute grilled chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas marinated in similar Mediterranean spices to maintain protein content.
  • Gluten-Free Greek Salad: Ensure Greek salad dressing is gluten-free and use certified gluten-free ingredients for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Serving Tzatziki Chicken Salad on Warm Summer Days

  • Mediterranean Picnic Delight: Pack this chicken salad in a cute mason jar for a stunning outdoor lunch with friends.
  • Greek Wrap Adventure: Stuff the salad into warm pita bread for a handheld Mediterranean-style meal that's perfect for quick lunches.
  • Refreshing Summer Plate: Serve chilled on a bed of mixed greens with extra tzatziki on the side for a light and cooling dinner option during hot days.
  • Protein-Packed Lunch Bowl: Transform the salad into a hearty grain bowl by adding quinoa or couscous underneath for extra nutrition and texture.

Storing Tzatziki Chicken Salad for Lunch or Picnics

  • Transfer leftover salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep dressing and tzatziki separate to prevent soggy lettuce.
  • Store sliced chicken separately from vegetables to maintain texture and prevent wilting. Place chicken in a sealed container in the fridge.
  • Gently warm chicken in the microwave for 30-45 seconds on medium power, or briefly warm in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to retain moisture.
  • When ready to eat, refresh the salad by adding fresh lettuce and tossing with a bit of extra dressing to revive the flavors.

FAQs

  • Is tzatziki sauce healthy?

Yes, tzatziki is a nutritious sauce made with Greek yogurt, which is high in protein, low in calories, and contains probiotics that support digestive health.

  • Can I use different chicken cuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe uses chicken breasts, you can substitute with chicken thighs or grilled chicken tenders for similar delicious results.

  • What makes this salad Greek-inspired?

The combination of Kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce gives this salad its authentic Greek-style flavor profile and ingredients.

  • How can I make this salad more filling?

Add more protein by increasing the chicken portion, or include additional ingredients like quinoa or chickpeas to boost the salad’s nutritional value and make it more substantial.

Tzatziki Chicken Salad with Cool Mediterranean Flair

  • Savor Greek-Inspired Flavors: Dive into a mouthwatering fusion of Mediterranean tastes that bring zesty herbs and fresh ingredients together in one spectacular dish.
  • Quick and Wholesome Meal Prep: Whip up this protein-packed salad in minutes, perfect for busy professionals or health-conscious individuals wanting a nutritious lunch or dinner option.
  • Grill-Friendly Recipe: Enjoy the smoky charred chicken that adds depth and richness to the crisp vegetables, creating a delightful texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your dietary preferences, making this recipe incredibly versatile for different taste buds and nutritional needs.

Ingredients Needed for Tzatziki Chicken Salad Creation

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender protein source that serves as the primary ingredient of the salad.
Salad Base:
  • Romaine Lettuce, Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onion, Kalamata Olives: Fresh vegetables that provide crunch, color, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Dressing and Toppings:
  • Greek Salad Dressing, Tzatziki, Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy components that enhance the overall taste and authenticity of the salad.
Seasoning:
  • Olive Oil, Dried Oregano, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that add depth of flavor and help tenderize the chicken during grilling.

Assembling a Tzatziki Chicken Salad Step by Step

Step 1: Fire Up the Grill

Get your grill heated to a sizzling medium-high temperature, ready to transform chicken into a delicious masterpiece.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Lovingly coat chicken breasts with a gentle brush of olive oil, then sprinkle with:
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Ensure each breast is evenly seasoned for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side.

You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in those juicy flavors before slicing.

Step 4: Build the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, create a vibrant bed of fresh ingredients:
  • Chopped romaine lettuce
  • Halved cherry tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Diced cucumber
  • Kalamata olives

Step 5: Add Sliced Chicken

Gently layer the freshly grilled, sliced chicken over the crisp vegetable mix.

Step 6: Dress and Toss

Drizzle Greek salad dressing over the salad and toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient gets a delicious coating.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Top the salad with a generous dollop of cool tzatziki and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish.

Tips for Creamy Tzatziki Chicken Salad Every Time

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for perfectly cooked, juicy meat without drying out.
  • Let chicken rest after grilling to retain moisture, then slice against the grain for tender, easy-to-eat pieces.
  • Chop vegetables just before serving to maintain crisp texture and prevent wilting in the salad.
  • Toss salad gently to coat ingredients evenly without crushing delicate lettuce leaves.
  • Replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that maintains the Mediterranean flavor profile.
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Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe


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4.5 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Cool Mediterranean vibes meet fresh tzatziki chicken salad, blending Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, and herb-infused chicken in a light, refreshing dish. Zesty flavors and creamy textures make you crave this protein-packed summer classic that sings with Mediterranean charm.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

Vegetables and Salad Base:

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 English cucumber (sliced into half moons)
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted)

Seasonings and Dressings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1/2 cup Greek salad dressing
  • 2 cups tzatziki

Instructions

  1. Fire up the grill to 400°F, creating a medium-high heat zone for optimal chicken cooking.
  2. Coat chicken breasts with a light layer of olive oil, then generously season with dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Position chicken on the hot grill, cooking approximately 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior develops a golden-brown char.
  4. Remove chicken from grill and allow to rest for 5 minutes, which helps retain moisture and ensures even distribution of juices.
  5. While chicken rests, prepare the salad base by arranging crisp romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl.
  6. Slice cherry tomatoes in half, thinly dice red onion, and chop cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Scatter halved tomatoes, diced onion, cucumber chunks, and briny Kalamata olives across the lettuce.
  8. Slice the grilled chicken into thin, diagonal strips and arrange on top of the vegetable medley.
  9. Drizzle the entire salad with authentic Greek dressing, gently tossing to ensure even coating.
  10. Finish the dish by dolloping cool tzatziki sauce and sprinkling crumbled feta cheese over the top.
  11. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum flavor and texture contrast.

Notes

  • Grill chicken to perfect doneness by using a meat thermometer, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Marinate chicken beforehand in Greek yogurt and herbs for extra tenderness and deeper flavor profile.
  • Consider using rotisserie chicken as a quick alternative for busy weeknights, saving preparation time without compromising taste.
  • Transform this recipe into a low-carb option by replacing lettuce with mixed greens or serving over cauliflower rice for gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 322 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 570 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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