This Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a fresh and creamy twist on a classic favorite. It’s packed with tender rotisserie chicken, crisp cucumber, and bright dill, all brought together with tangy Greek yogurt instead of heavy mayo. The result is a salad that feels light but still satisfying, with a nice balance of cool crunch and savory chicken.
I love making this because it’s super easy to throw together when I have leftover rotisserie chicken. Mixing in Greek yogurt keeps it so healthy and refreshing, which makes it perfect for warmer days or when you want something that won’t weigh you down. The dill adds a lovely herby pop, and the cucumbers make every bite feel crisp and clean.
My favorite way to serve it is piled high on whole grain bread as a sandwich, or spooned onto a bed of greens for a quick lunch. It also makes a great snack with crackers or veggie sticks. I find it’s one of those salads everyone keeps coming back to because it’s simple, tasty, and just a little different from the usual chicken salad.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu cubes.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber gives a cool crunch. English cucumbers work well because they have fewer seeds. If unavailable, zucchini can be a crunchy substitute.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt makes this salad creamy and healthy. If you prefer, use regular yogurt strained through a cheesecloth or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright herbal note that pairs perfectly with cucumber and chicken. If you don’t have dill, tarragon or fresh parsley can work in a pinch.
How Can I Keep the Cucumber Crunchy and Stop the Salad from Getting Watery?
Cucumber water can make the salad soggy over time. To keep it crisp:
- Dice the cucumber and lightly salt it. Let it sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess water.
- Pat the cucumber pieces dry with paper towels before adding to the salad.
- Mix the salad just before serving to keep textures fresh.
These steps help maintain that refreshing crunch essential for a great chicken salad.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining all ingredients easily and mixing without spills.
- Measuring spoons and cups – For precise amounts of yogurt, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Chopping knife and cutting board – To dice cucumbers, chop dill, celery, and any other add-ins.
- Grater (optional) – If you’d like to zest lemon or grate in some additional herbs or cheese.
- Serving utensils – For scooping and serving the salad neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Stir in crumbled feta or grated Parmesan for a tangy, salty boost.
- Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers or red onions for extra color and flavor.
- Spices & Herbs: Mix in a pinch of paprika, cumin, or fresh basil for different flavor profiles.
- Protein: Use cooked shrimp, turkey, or chickpeas to change up the main ingredient.
Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes in the fridge so the flavors can come together nicely. It’s quick to mix, making it a great option for a fresh and tasty meal or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Ingredients:
Start by shredding or chopping the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber and finely chop the celery and fresh dill.
2. Mix The Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cucumber, celery, and dill. Add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Stir everything gently until all the ingredients are coated evenly.
3. Season and Chill:
Season the salad with salt and black pepper to your liking, then give it a good mix. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend together beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad as a filling for sandwiches, on top of fresh greens, or alongside your favorite crackers. Enjoy this light and refreshing dish anytime!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or submerge the sealed package in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again, and keep it chilled to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt with Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Mayonnaise will add a richer, creamier texture but also more calories. If you want a lighter option, consider mixing half mayo with half Greek yogurt to balance creaminess and tang.
How Can I Prevent the Salad from Getting Watery?
To keep the salad from becoming watery, sprinkle the diced cucumber with a little salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then drain the excess moisture and pat dry before adding to the salad mixture.