Save Last summer my sister dropped by unexpectedly during a heatwave and I raided the fridge for something cooling and substantial. We ended up throwing together this chicken salad with cucumber from the garden and that tangy dill yogurt dressing. She still texts me about it whenever temperatures climb above eighty degrees. The way the crisp cucumbers play against the creamy dressing just works.
I started making this weekly during my meal prep phase last year. The third day I accidentally added too much dill and discovered what fresh herbs can actually do when you commit to them. Now it is my go-to for Sunday lunch boxes.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here if you want to skip the cooking step entirely
- Cucumber: English cucumbers have thinner skin and fewer seeds which makes them ideal for salads
- Red onion: Soak the sliced onion in ice water for ten minutes to mellow the sharp bite
- Greek yogurt: Full fat yogurt creates that luxuriously creamy mouthfeel you want
- Fresh dill: This herb is the star of the show so do not be shy with it
- Lemon juice: Brightens the entire dressing and cuts through the rich yogurt
- Garlic: One clove is plenty since it will mellow as the salad chills
Instructions
- Mix the dressing base:
- Whisk together the yogurt mayonnaise dill lemon juice mustard garlic salt and pepper until completely smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything:
- Add the chicken cucumber and onion to the bowl then fold gently until every piece is coated in that lovely herbed dressing.
- Taste and adjust:
- This is when you decide if it needs more acid salt or maybe just another pinch of dill.
- Let it rest:
- Fifteen minutes in the fridge lets the flavors become friends though it is still good immediately if you are hungry.
- Finish and serve:
- Sprinkle extra dill and green onions on top right before serving for that pretty restaurant touch.
Save My neighbor asked for the recipe after I brought some to a potluck. Now we trade variations back and forth like pen pals.
Make Ahead Magic
I always keep cooked chicken in the freezer just for this recipe. Thaw it overnight and the salad comes together in ten minutes flat on busy days.
Serving Ideas
Scooped into hollowed cucumber boats this becomes an elegant appetizer. My niece loves it wrapped in lettuce leaves for a carb-free lunch.
Storage and Freshness
This keeps beautifully for three to four days in an airtight container. The cucumbers soften slightly but the flavors develop beautifully over time.
- Store in glass containers to avoid onion odors absorbing into plastic
- Give it a quick stir before serving leftovers
- Add fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their bright flavor
Save Cool crisp and completely satisfying this salad is summer on a plate.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this actually tastes better when made ahead. Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and store refrigerated. The flavors meld beautifully, though add crunchy garnishes like celery just before serving.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is perfectly convenient and adds great flavor. Alternatively, poach or bake chicken breasts specifically for this dish. Shredded or diced both work well.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute plain Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt or almond-based yogurt. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious. Omit mayonnaise or use a dairy-free alternative.
- → What can I serve with this salad?
Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, over mixed greens for a larger salad, or tucked into whole-grain bread. Also pairs well with crackers, crostini, or roasted vegetables.
- → How long will leftovers keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The cucumbers may release some moisture over time, which is natural. Give it a quick stir before serving again.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Thinly sliced celery, radishes, bell peppers, or grated carrots add wonderful crunch and color. Adjust quantities to maintain the dressing-to-vegetable ratio.