Refreshing Cold Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer

There’s nothing quite like the crunch of fresh cucumbers mingling with tender chicken, all drizzled in a tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds. perfect pairing with chicken salad Cold cucumber chicken salad is not just a dish; it’s an adventure for your palate, promising refreshment with every bite.

Picture this: it’s a hot summer afternoon, and you’re lounging by the pool, contemplating life’s greatest mysteries—like why the ice cream truck never seems to stop near your house. Mediterranean chicken bowls Enter cold cucumber chicken salad, the perfect companion for those lazy days when all you want is something light yet satisfying to nibble on.

I remember the first time I made this dish. My friends were skeptical—“Salad? Really?” But once they took their first bite, it was like watching kids open presents on Christmas morning. Their eyes lit up!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts for a hearty salad that fills you up without weighing you down.
• Fresh Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers; they’ll provide the perfect crunch and refreshing flavor.
• Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess without all the calories of traditional mayo; look for plain varieties.
• Dijon Mustard: A little zing goes a long way; choose smooth Dijon for easy mixing.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors; skip bottled versions if possible.
• Fresh Dill: This herb gives our salad that fresh garden taste; chop finely for best results.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: Preparing Your Chicken: Begin by poaching your chicken breasts in simmering water for about 15-20 minutes until they’re fully cooked through. This method keeps them moist and flavorful.

Next Up: Cooling Time: Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it cool completely before chopping into bite-sized pieces. You don’t want to melt your salad!

Chop Those Veggies: While the chicken cools, slice your cucumbers thinly and chop fresh dill. The more colorful, the better!

Mixing Magic: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this will be your dressing.

The Big Combine: Add chopped chicken and cucumbers to the bowl of dressing. Toss gently until everything is well-coated in that delightful mixture.

Taste Test Time: Before serving, take a moment to taste your creation—adjust seasoning if necessary. A pinch more salt or another squeeze of lemon can elevate this dish!

Serve it Up: Serve chilled over a bed of greens or alongside whole grain crackers for an extra crunch factor.

And there you have it! A delicious cold cucumber chicken salad that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a refreshing meal during those warm afternoons. Enjoy every crunchy bite! For more inspiration, check out this Cucumber Salad Delight recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create a cold cucumber chicken salad, start by cooking the chicken thoroughly, then cool before combining with fresh veggies. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully without compromising texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on preferences. Try adding avocado, nuts, or different dressings to personalize your cold cucumber chicken salad experience.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cold cucumber chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best quality, avoid reheating; enjoy it chilled!

Creating this cold cucumber chicken salad brings back memories of summer picnics where everyone enjoyed seconds and thirds, savoring every bite while laughing under the sun. Ina Garten’s summer potato salad classic potato salad for summer.

FAQ

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to increase protein and fiber content in your salad.

Can I use grilled chicken instead?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a delightful smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.

What dressing works best with this salad?

A light vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing pairs well, enhancing flavors without overpowering them.

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

📖 Recipe Card

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Cold Cucumber Chicken Salad

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cold cucumber chicken salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines crunchy cucumbers with tender chicken in a tangy yogurt dressing. Perfect for summer days, this salad is light yet satisfying, making it ideal for picnics or a quick lunch. Its vibrant flavors and textures will awaken your taste buds, ensuring every bite is an adventure. Easy to prepare and customizable, this salad can be enjoyed chilled over greens or with whole grain crackers.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 medium firm cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Poach the chicken breasts in simmering water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Allow the chicken to cool completely before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
3. While the chicken cools, slice the cucumbers thinly and chop the fresh dill.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Gently fold in the chopped chicken and cucumbers until well-coated.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving chilled over greens or with crackers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Poaching
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 100mg