This Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad is fresh, creamy, and full of bright flavors. It combines tender rotisserie chicken with crisp cucumber pieces and the herby touch of dill, all brought together by thick Greek yogurt instead of heavy mayo. The result is a light and refreshing salad that’s perfect any time of year.
I love making this salad when I want something quick but still special. Using rotisserie chicken saves so much time, and Greek yogurt adds a nice tang that makes every bite pop. The dill and cucumber make it feel like a little garden in your mouth, which is such a nice change from the usual chicken salad flavors.
My favorite way to enjoy this salad is piled high on a soft sandwich bun or wrapped in a tortilla with some crunchy lettuce. It also makes a perfect snack on its own or a great addition to a picnic spread. I keep thinking about how easy it is to whip up but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes this salad quick and flavorful. You can substitute with leftover roasted chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a hurry. Just shred or chop it well.
Cucumber: Choose a fresh, firm cucumber for crunch. English cucumbers work great because their skin is thin and less bitter. If you prefer, you can peel regular cucumbers to reduce bitterness.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives creaminess and a mild tang without the heaviness of mayo. If you want a dairy-free option, try a thick plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond, but check for unsweetened and plain varieties.
Dill: Fresh dill is the star herb here, adding a bright, slightly tangy flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried dill can work, but use less as it’s more concentrated. Fresh parsley or tarragon can be nice alternatives too.
How Do I Keep the Salad from Getting Watery?
This salad contains cucumber, which can release water and make the mix soggy. Here’s how to keep it fresh and crisp:
- After slicing, sprinkle cucumber with a bit of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Use firm cucumbers like English or Persian types, which hold up better.
- Mix the dressing just before serving to avoid watery texture over time.
- If prepping early, keep dressing separate until ready to eat, then toss together.
Following these simple steps keeps your salad creamy and crunchy without sogginess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I recommend a large one for tossing everything together easily.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – helps you cut the cucumber and herbs precisely and safely.
- Whisk or fork – perfect for mixing the yogurt dressing smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – useful for gently folding the ingredients without breaking up the chicken.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate dill, lemon juice, and seasoning amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Herb Swap: Try adding chopped parsley or tarragon instead of dill for a different herbal note that pairs well with chicken.
- Cheese: Mix in crumbled feta or a small handful of shredded Parmesan to add richness and a salty bite.
- Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion for extra crunch and color.
- Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat in your salad.
Cucumber Dill Greek Yogurt Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into thick rounds and halved
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat or low fat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 to 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to chill it for a bit to let the flavors meld, add another 30 minutes in the fridge before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Wash the cucumber well, then slice it into thick rounds and cut each round in half. This gives nice bite-sized pieces that add crunch to the salad.
2. Mix Chicken and Cucumber:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken with the prepared cucumber pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and combined.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the yogurt dressing over the chicken and cucumber. Gently fold the salad together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Season and Garnish:
Taste the salad and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking. Garnish with a little extra fresh dill on top if you like.
6. Serve:
You can enjoy the salad right away or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. It’s delicious on its own, stuffed in a sandwich, or served over fresh greens.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – one large for the salad and one small for the dressing.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing cucumber and chopping dill.
- Whisk or fork – perfect for mixing the yogurt dressing smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – to gently fold the ingredients without breaking up the chicken.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate amounts of dill, lemon juice, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Herbs: Swap dill with fresh parsley or tarragon for a different flavor twist.
- Cheese: Add crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan for a salty, cheesy touch.
- Veggies: Try adding chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion for extra crunch and color.
- Spice: A pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce gives a little kick if you like some heat.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before mixing it in. Using thawed chicken helps keep the salad from becoming watery.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the salad and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best texture, mix in the dressing just before serving or toss well after refrigerating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The salad stays fresh for about 2-3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Are Good Serving Suggestions?
This salad works great as a sandwich filling, a light lunch over leafy greens, or as a side dish. It’s also delicious wrapped in a tortilla or served with crackers for a snack.