Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Creamy Tzatziki is a vibrant and wholesome dish that beautifully captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This salad combines tender, grilled chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
At the heart of this salad is the juicy, well-seasoned chicken. Marinated with Mediterranean spices, it is grilled to perfection, providing a smoky and savory element that complements the fresh vegetables. The salad features an array of colorful ingredients, including crisp cherry tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onions. These ingredients are not only visually appealing but also contribute a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor.
The Kalamata olives add a briny, rich depth, while crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy, tangy note that ties the salad together. Mixed greens or romaine lettuce form the base, offering a light and crisp foundation for the hearty chicken and vibrant vegetables.
The creamy tzatziki sauce is a standout component, enhancing the salad with its cool, garlicky, and herby flavor. Made from Greek yogurt, finely grated cucumber, fresh dill, and a touch of lemon juice, this sauce brings a luscious creaminess and a refreshing tang that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and crisp vegetables.
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a nourishing choice, making it an excellent option for a light yet satisfying meal. Its combination of lean protein, fresh veggies, and a wholesome, creamy dressing provides a balanced and delicious dining experience. Whether served for a casual lunch or a light dinner, this salad brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table, offering a delightful and healthy culinary escape.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce
- For the Creamy Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill or cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Creamy Tzatziki:
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, finely grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens or romaine lettuce with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad with a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki on the side or drizzled over the top.
- Enjoy:
- Toss the salad lightly to mix the ingredients and flavors before eating.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute the Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker and creamier texture.
- To make the salad more substantial, consider adding some cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
- If you prefer a warm salad, you can serve the chicken warm over the salad ingredients, or lightly heat the tzatziki sauce before serving.
Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Creamy Tzatziki, a perfect dish for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner!
