This Cucumber Chicken Salad is a deliciously light and refreshing twist on the classic chicken salad. With crisp cucumbers, crunchy bell peppers, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Serve it on a croissant, over greens, or simply on its own for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Directions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken, then gently fold in the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion until all ingredients are well-coated.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad chilled, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it on a flaky croissant, over a bed of mixed greens, or with whole-grain crackers for a light, refreshing meal. It’s also great as a filling for lettuce wraps or with a side of fruit for a healthy lunch.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance. Combine all ingredients just before serving for the best texture.
Helpful Notes
- Cucumber Prep: If you prefer a less watery salad, scoop out the seeds from the cucumber before dicing.
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken work well in this recipe for added flavor.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free or vegan option, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds a tangy flavor. You may want to adjust the vinegar to taste.
2. What’s the best type of cucumber for this salad?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a milder flavor.
3. Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Try adding cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or diced celery for extra crunch and color.
4. How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Scoop out the cucumber seeds before dicing and add the dressing just before serving if preparing in advance.
5. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free mayonnaise or substitute with mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
6. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
For extra flavor, use seasoned or grilled chicken breast. A pinch of smoked paprika or cumin in the dressing also enhances the flavor.
7. Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, it can be enjoyed warm. Simply skip the chilling step and serve immediately after mixing.
Enjoy this Light and Refreshing Cucumber Chicken Salad as a flavorful, satisfying option for lunch, meal prep, or even a light dinner!