Refreshing Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer

Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is the kind of dish that invokes summer vibes, even when you’re stuck in an office cubicle. Picture biting into crispy cucumbers mingling with tender chicken, the crunch contrasting with a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just food; it’s a refreshing escape from the mundane, an edible hug on a plate.

This salad brings back memories of sun-soaked picnics and lazy afternoons spent with friends in the backyard. It’s perfect for those days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a potluck gathering, this dish promises to be the star of the show while keeping your waistline happy.

Ingredients for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts to ensure everyone has enough to enjoy; grill or poach them for best results.

• Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers; their crisp texture will provide the perfect crunch in your salad.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color; slice them in half for visual appeal.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion offers a mild bite; soak them in cold water for a milder flavor if desired.

• Fresh Herbs: Basil and dill are great choices here; they elevate the salad with vibrant flavors and aromas.

For the Dressing:

• Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess without excess calories; opt for plain yogurt to keep flavors balanced.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad; it’s essential for cutting through richness.

• Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s richness; choose high-quality oil for maximum flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad

Start by cooking the chicken. You can grill or poach it until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside, which should take about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness. Let it cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Next comes the fun part: chopping veggies! Dice your cucumbers into refreshing little cubes and halve those cherry tomatoes. Don’t forget to slice your red onion thinly—this adds crunch and zing—just be careful not to shed too many tears.

Now grab those fresh herbs like basil and dill, giving them a rough chop. The scent alone will transport you straight to summer! Toss everything together in a large bowl, making sure each ingredient gets cozy with its neighbors.

Prepare your dressing next. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt with lemon juice and olive oil until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper because who wants bland?

Pour that luscious dressing over your salad mixture, tossing gently until everything is well-coated. You want every piece of chicken and veggie basking in that creamy goodness!

Finally, let your Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes—the flavors meld beautifully during this time. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle toss and enjoy this refreshing delight!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken to infuse those flavors deeply. While that sizzles, chop your cucumbers and mix your dressing. Timing is everything—have your salad ready to toss once the chicken is cooked to perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cucumbers for other crunchy veggies like bell peppers or carrots. Want some zing? Add a splash of lemon juice or throw in some feta cheese for that Mediterranean twist. Your fresh cucumber chicken salad, your rules!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm the chicken gently in a pan, but keep the salad fresh by serving it cold.

I remember the first time I made fresh cucumber chicken salad for my family picnic. They devoured it so fast I thought they were training for a food-eating contest!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad?

To make a delicious Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad, you’ll need cooked chicken breast, fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a tangy dressing. For the dressing, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. This combination creates a refreshing dish perfect for warm days or as a light lunch option.

How can I make Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad healthier?

To enhance the health benefits of your Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad, consider using grilled chicken instead of fried. Add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients. Opt for a yogurt-based dressing instead of mayonnaise to reduce calories and fat. You can also replace regular salt with herbs and spices to boost flavor without excess sodium.

Can I prepare Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad in advance! However, it’s best to store the salad components separately until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the cucumbers from becoming soggy. Keep the dressing in a separate container and combine everything just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

What are some variations for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad?

You can customize your Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad in many ways! For a twist, try adding fruits like apples or grapes for sweetness. Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you want a different protein source. Experimenting with different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or avocado cream can also give your salad unique flavors while keeping it refreshing.

Conclusion for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad :

In summary, Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is an easy-to-make dish that combines flavorful ingredients like chicken and fresh vegetables. With its healthy options and potential variations, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, it offers a refreshing taste that delights the palate. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your preferences to make it truly yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This easy-to-make salad features tender grilled chicken, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onions, all tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Ideal for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch, this salad is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a delightful addition to your meal rotation.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 firm cucumbers, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken by grilling or poaching until fully cooked (165°F), approximately 15-20 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped basil, and chopped dill.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling/Poaching
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 285
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 75mg