This Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is a light and tasty dish! With juicy chicken, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner.
You know those days when you need something simple but satisfying? This salad is it! I love tossing everything together in one bowl—it makes for easy clean-up, too! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the salad light. However, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and tastes delicious. Just shred it and mix it in!
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch. If you’re looking for variety, try English cucumbers or even diced zucchini for a twist. Just keep the skin on for added nutrients!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a nice burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute. You could even skip fresh herbs altogether and use a dash of dried herb for gentler flavor.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: The yogurt adds creaminess and protein. For a lighter option, use all Greek yogurt or opt for low-fat mayo. You can skip it entirely if you prefer a lighter salad!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a nice kick. If you want a milder flavor, you can omit it or use garlic powder instead.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken is simple, but if it’s your first time, here’s how to do it effectively:
- After cooking, let the chicken cool for a few minutes but ensure it’s still warm—this makes shredding easier!
- Using two forks, hold one fork still while pulling the chicken apart with the other.
- Continue until all the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces. It should only take a couple of minutes!
If you prefer, you can also use a stand mixer on low speed for a super quick shredding method. Just be careful not to overdo it!
Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large cucumber, diced (around 1.5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken and then around 10-15 minutes to prep and mix everything together. It’s quick and perfect for those busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a pot and covering them with water. Bring the pot to a boil, then turn down the heat to medium-low. Simmer the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink inside. You can check this with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
2. Shredding the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. When it’s cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This is a great way to get that perfect texture!
3. Mixing the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, diced cucumber, and freshly chopped cilantro. This will give your salad a burst of freshness and flavor.
4. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon or lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if you’re using it). If you want a creamier salad, feel free to add the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise at this stage and mix well.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and cucumber mixture, tossing everything gently so that it’s coated evenly. This is where the magic happens! Your salad starts to come together beautifully.
6. Garnishing:
To finish off, sprinkle the black sesame seeds over the top for a lovely garnish and a slight nutty flavor. This adds a nice touch to the presentation.
7. Serving:
Your salad can be served immediately if you’re ready to dig in! But if you have a little patience, chilling it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your fresh, light chicken cucumber salad!
This salad is crisp, refreshing, and super simple—perfect for a quick meal or a healthy side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it into the salad to keep the recipe quick and easy!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumber might get a bit soggy, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, simply substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use a plant-based yogurt or omit the creamy component altogether. The flavors will still be delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, chopped parsley or even dill can make a great substitute. Both will add a fresh flavor to the salad!
