The Origins of Tzatziki and Its Mediterranean Flavors

Tzatziki is a beloved Greek sauce traditionally made with strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill or mint. It’s known for its cool, creamy texture and refreshing flavor, often served alongside grilled meats, gyros, or warm pita bread. In this recipe, we borrow the essence of tzatziki and transform it into a satisfying chicken salad. By using shredded rotisserie chicken, this dish becomes not only quick to prepare but also hearty enough for lunch or dinner. The balance of tangy yogurt, crisp cucumber, and savory garlic gives this salad a Mediterranean authenticity while keeping it light and healthy.

Why Cucumber, Yogurt, and Dill Work So Well Together

Cucumber brings crunch and freshness, making the salad crisp and hydrating. Greek yogurt, packed with probiotics and protein, provides the creamy base while also adding tanginess without being heavy like mayonnaise-based salads. Dill, with its slightly citrusy and grassy notes, enhances the flavor of the yogurt and cucumber, making every bite feel bright and refreshing. Garlic and lemon juice tie it all together by adding a zesty punch. Combined with feta cheese, which offers saltiness and richness, and chicken for protein, this dish checks every box: creamy, crunchy, tangy, and filling. The ingredients are simple but each plays an important role in building layers of flavor.

How This Tzatziki Chicken Salad Fits Into Everyday Cooking

This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, picnics, or meal prepping. Since it takes just 20 minutes, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy quick and healthy meals throughout the week. It’s versatile—serve it on its own as a high-protein salad, stuffed into pita pockets, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter option. You can also spread it over toasted bread or serve it with crackers as a satisfying snack. The combination of flavors keeps it refreshing, while the shredded chicken ensures it’s hearty enough to be the star of the meal.

Ingredients

• 1 English cucumber (½ cup grated, 1½ cups finely diced)
• ¾ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• ¾ cup diced red onion

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Cucumber

Grate ½ cup of cucumber and place it between two paper towels. Gently squeeze to remove excess water so the salad doesn’t become watery. Dice the remaining cucumber finely.

Step 2 – Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3 – Assemble the Salad

Fold in the shredded chicken, crumbled feta cheese, diced onion, grated cucumber, and diced cucumber. Toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4 – Garnish and Serve

Top with extra fresh dill for garnish. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an even more refreshing flavor.

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 399 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 157 mg
• Sodium: 745 mg
• Vitamin C: 6 mg
• Calcium: 141 mg
• Iron: 2 mg
• Potassium: 607 mg

Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Q1: Can I make Tzatziki Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Q2: What can I serve with Tzatziki Chicken Salad?

It pairs beautifully with pita bread, lettuce wraps, or even inside sandwiches. For a light meal, serve it on a bed of greens. For something more filling, pair it with roasted potatoes or rice.

Q3: Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or baked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or dice it into small pieces so it blends well with the creamy dressing.

Q4: Is this recipe healthy?

Yes. With Greek yogurt as the base, it’s high in protein and lower in fat than mayo-heavy chicken salads. Plus, cucumber, dill, and lemon juice add nutrients and freshness without extra calories.

Q5: Can I freeze Tzatziki Chicken Salad?

Freezing isn’t recommended because yogurt and cucumber release water when thawed, making the salad watery. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.