This Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is a light and crisp dish, perfect for warm days! With juicy chicken, crunchy cucumbers, and a pop of flavor from herbs, it’s a real winner.
I love tossing it together in just minutes—it’s a healthy option that feels like a treat! Serve it on a bed of greens or in a wrap for a fun twist. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my favorite for this salad because it saves time. If you prefer, you can poach chicken breasts and shred them. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas can be a great substitute.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch and freshness. I recommend leaving the skin on for added nutrients and color. If cucumbers aren’t available, zucchini works well, too.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can be swapped in for a different flavor profile.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: For creaminess, you can use either mayo or Greek yogurt, which adds healthy protein. If you want it lighter, you can skip it or use a little olive oil instead. A vegan mayo is also a great alternative.
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Salad?
The texture is key for this salad to shine. Here are some tips:
- Shred the chicken finely so it’s easy to mix and eat.
- Dice your cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps blend all flavors together.
- For a crunchier cucumber, use the seeds of an English cucumber—just slice it up and enjoy.
Enjoy making your salad light and vibrant while focusing on that pleasant texture! It makes every bite delightful.
How to Make Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes around 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or a light snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by shredding the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach your own chicken for a fresher taste. Either way, make sure it’s cooled before shredding!
2. Dice the Cucumber:
Wash the cucumber thoroughly and then chop it into small chunks. Keeping the skin on adds color and a nice crunch, which is delightful in this salad.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced cucumber, and chopped cilantro. The mix of ingredients looks so vibrant!
4. Add the Sesame Seeds:
Sprinkle the black sesame seeds evenly over the salad. They add a subtle nutty flavor and make it look even more appealing.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the lemon or lime juice. This adds a creamy tanginess. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste!
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and cucumber mixture. Gently toss it all together until everything is nicely coated.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste-test. You can always add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you prefer a stronger flavor. Adjust it to fit your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This salad can be served immediately, chilled, or even at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or served over greens, in a wrap, or with some crackers on the side. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken For This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled, roasted, or poached chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and ideally shredded for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No problem! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with chopped parsley, chives, or even green onions for a different flavor profile that suits your taste!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving. This keeps the cucumber crisp and prevents it from getting too soggy!
