Save to Pinterest The air conditioning had broken down during the hottest July weekend I can remember, and cooking anything over a hot burner felt like punishment. My neighbor Sarah dropped by with a container of this creamy cucumber chicken salad, and I've been making it ever since. Something about the cool crisp cucumbers against that tangy dill dressing just resets your whole system.
Last summer I made this for my sister's baby shower, serving it in delicate lettuce cups. The pregnant women went absolutely feral over it. Later I found out three of them texted me for the recipe before they even left the party. There's something about that combination of cool cucumber and rich protein that just hits differently when the weather turns warm.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, or use poached breasts for a lighter result
- English cucumber: These have thinner skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work if you peel them first
- Red onion: Soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes to tame its bite
- Greek yogurt: Full fat gives the best texture, but 2% works if you are watching calories
- Fresh dill: Nothing replaces the real thing here, though dried dill will work in a pinch
- Lemon juice: Fresh squeezed makes all the difference in brightness
- Garlic clove: Grate it on a microplane so it melts into the dressing without any harsh bits
Instructions
- Whisk together the dressing:
- In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until completely smooth and creamy.
- Add the mix-ins:
- Gently fold in the shredded chicken, sliced cucumber, and red onion until everything is evenly coated with that lovely dressing.
- Taste and adjust:
- Scoop up a small bite and check the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice until the flavors pop just right.
- Let it rest:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This little chill time lets the dill and garlic really make friends with everything else.
- Serve it up:
- Pile into lettuce cups, scoop onto whole grain bread, or serve straight up with crackers. Garnish with extra dill and green onions if you are feeling fancy.
Save to Pinterest My grandmother used to make something similar but with sour cream and way too much salt. When I finally recreated her recipe with Greek yogurt and measured the garlic properly, it became my go-to for whenever life feels overwhelming. There is comfort in food that comes together without any drama.
Make It Yours
Sometimes I add thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch and a pretty pop of color. Other times I toss in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil. The recipe forgives all kinds of small adjustments.
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines brightest when you treat it as a main dish rather than a side. I love it stuffed into a hollowed-out tomato or spooned onto half an avocado. It also makes an incredible sandwich when piled onto toasted sourdough with lettuce and extra red onion.
Storage And Meal Prep
The salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days, though the cucumbers will soften slightly. If you are meal prepping for the week, consider storing the diced cucumbers separately and folding them in just before serving.
- Let the salad come to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor
- Avoid freezing, as the yogurt dressing will separate and become grainy
- If it seems a little thick after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of water or lemon juice
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about a recipe that nourishes you without demanding much in return. This salad has saved me on countless busy weeknights.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of chicken works best for this dish?
Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced, works well to keep the texture tender and protein-rich.
- → Can I substitute Greek yogurt in the dressing?
Yes, plant-based yogurts can be used to create a dairy-free variation while maintaining creaminess.
- → How long should the salad chill before serving?
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and intensify.
- → Can I add other vegetables for crunch?
Thinly sliced celery or radishes can be added to introduce extra crunch and freshness.
- → Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it naturally contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-free diets.