Name: Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup shredded cucumber, excess liquid squeezed out; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover works well); 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives; 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley

Jump to Recipe·4 from 42 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with freshness, creaminess, and a bright Mediterranean vibe, this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. The combination of juicy shredded chicken and the cool, tangy tzatziki dressing creates a perfectly balanced salad that’s both satisfying and light. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in the form of a meal, effortlessly combining simple ingredients into a spectacular dish you’ll happily make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a mixture of thick white sauce with visible small green herb pieces and light green vegetable bits mixed in, held with a white spoon swirling softly in the center, with some herbs scattered slightly on the side inside the bowl; the bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component contributes essential flavors, textures, and colors, turning a handful of staples into something truly special and memorable.

Plain Greek Yogurt: Provides the creamy, tangy base for the tzatziki and keeps the salad light yet rich.
Shredded Cucumber (excess liquid squeezed out): Adds a refreshing crunch and juicy burst, with the liquid squeezed out to keep the salad creamy, not watery.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Lifts the salad with citrus brightness and a balancing zing; start cautiously and adjust to taste.
Chopped Fresh Dill: Brings that unmistakable fresh, grassy Greek flavor that makes tzatziki truly pop.
Garlic Powder: Offers subtle warmth and signature garlic notes; fresh garlic works too if you desire a bolder punch.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that help every ingredient shine harmoniously.
Shredded Chicken: The hearty canvas of the dish; cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken work wonderfully for ease and tenderness.
Finely Chopped Red Onion: Injects vibrant color and a crisp, sharp crunch that wakes up the palate.
Kalamata Olives (chopped): Provide salty, savory bites that bring a lovely Mediterranean flair.
Feta Cheese (crumbled): Offers creamy, tangy pockets throughout; crumbling fresh feta yourself delivers the best texture.
Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby green note and a polished presentation.

How to Make Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Base

Start by whisking together plain Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber with all that excess water squeezed out, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This results in a tangy, creamy, and herbaceous tzatziki base that will elevate the salad. Don’t hesitate to taste and tailor the lemon or seasoning here—it’s the secret to a perfectly balanced final dish.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Mix-Ins

Next, fold in the shredded chicken, finely chopped red onion, chopped Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley. Stir gently until the chicken is fully coated in the luscious tzatziki mixture and the vibrant mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout. At this point, your Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe should look colorful and inviting, a real feast for the eyes and taste buds.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Before you call it done, sample your salad to see if it needs a touch more brightness, salt, or pepper. This is the moment to make it precisely suit your taste—whether that means a splash more lemon juice for extra zing or a little more feta for richer creaminess.

Step 4: Chill (Optional, But Worth It!)

If you can, cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the wonderful flavors to mingle and develop, taking your Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe to an even higher level of deliciousness. That said, if hunger strikes, it’s just as delightful straight from the mixing bowl!

How to Serve Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Two pita pockets cut in half show a filling made of creamy white chicken salad mixed with chopped purple onions, dark purple olives, and green herbs like dill. The pita bread is light brown with a soft texture holding the filling inside. The pita halves sit on a white plate with a brown rim, placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a bunch of green herbs, a small white bowl with chopped greens, and a whole lemon along with a lemon half, all slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or dill on top adds a fresh, pretty finishing touch. You can also scatter a few more crumbles of feta or a drizzle of olive oil to amp up the richness and appeal. These small gestures elevate your salad’s presentation and flavor profile beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or crusty sourdough, perfect for scooping every last bit. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or a medley of roasted vegetables. All complement the cool creaminess of the tzatziki chicken salad and make the meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad stuffed inside whole wheat pita pockets for an easy handheld meal or use it as a filling for lettuce wraps on warm days. You could also turn it into a vibrant grain bowl by layering it atop quinoa or farro, adding fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. These creative takes transform the classic Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe into new, exciting dishes every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Tzatziki Chicken Salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an ideal prepared lunch or quick dinner component. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to refresh the texture and flavors.

Freezing

Because this salad features creamy yogurt and fresh vegetables, freezing is not recommended—it can affect the texture and freshness. It’s best enjoyed fresh, or within a few days stored in the fridge.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t needed. If you want warmth, simply reheat the shredded chicken separately and then combine it with the salad just before eating to keep that delightful creamy tzatziki intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While regular yogurt can work in a pinch, Greek yogurt’s thick and creamy texture really makes this salad shine. If you use regular yogurt, try straining it first to remove excess liquid for the best results.

Is it okay to use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Absolutely! Fresh garlic will add a stronger, more pungent garlic flavor. Just grate it finely and start with a small amount so it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.

What type of chicken is best for this salad?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic convenient choice, but freshly cooked or leftover roasted chicken works just as well. The key is to shred the chicken so it integrates beautifully into the salad’s texture.

Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?

You can swap Greek yogurt with a thick plant-based yogurt and omit feta, or use vegan cheese alternatives. The salad will still be tasty, though the signature creamy tang of tzatziki comes from dairy, so it’s a bit different.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

This Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe stays fresh for about 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container, making it perfect for preparing ahead and enjoying as leftovers.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe enough—its blend of creamy, tangy, fresh, and savory elements is genuinely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a crowd-pleasing side, or a delicious centerpiece, this salad hits all the right notes. Give it a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need