This Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm days. With juicy chicken, crunchy cucumbers, and a splash of dressing, it’s a refreshing meal.
I love how quick it is to make! Just chop, mix, and you’re done. It’s like a delicious hug from a bowl—perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Enjoy it with some crusty bread! 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken for this salad—rotisserie chicken is a great option since it’s tender and flavorful. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu instead for a protein boost!
Cucumber: I like using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a smooth skin. If these aren’t available, regular cucumbers will work, but peel them for a milder taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lovely brightness to the salad. If you’re not a fan, swap it with fresh parsley or green onions for a different flavor.
Black Sesame Seeds: These seeds add a nice crunch and visual appeal. If you can’t find them, regular sesame seeds or even sunflower seeds are great alternatives.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, vinegar (like apple cider or white wine) can work, though the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Getting the flavors balanced in your salad is key! Here’s how to mix it perfectly:
- Start by shredding your chicken into bite-sized pieces for easier mixing.
- Combine the chicken and cucumber first in a large mixing bowl.
- To ensure everything is coated, whisk the dressing ingredients together separately before pouring it over the chicken and cucumber mix.
- Be sure to toss gently but thoroughly so that all the ingredients are covered in the dressing.
- Letting the salad chill for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld, so be patient—it’s worth it!
Enjoy this salad cold for a truly refreshing meal anytime!
Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad – Light and Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 large cucumber, diced (with skin on for color and crunch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple and refreshing salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare! Just give the ingredients a quick chop, mix, and then let it chill in the fridge for at least another 15 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Cucumber:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add in your cooked and shredded chicken breast. Next, toss in the diced cucumber. Using skin-on cucumbers adds a nice crunch and color!
2. Add Flavorful Extras:
Now it’s time to add some freshness! Sprinkle in the chopped fresh cilantro and the black sesame seeds. Gently toss everything together to make sure it’s evenly distributed.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and the minced garlic if you’re using it. This dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Mix and Toss:
Pour that flavorful dressing over your chicken and cucumber mixture. Toss everything well to ensure every piece is nicely coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before you serve it, take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs a bit more salt or pepper, feel free to adjust to your personal taste.
6. Chill Out:
Cover your salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This waiting time lets all those delicious flavors mingle and meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s chilled, take it out and serve it cold. You can enjoy it on its own, or for a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of greens or alongside some crusty bread. Enjoy your fresh, light salad!
FAQ for Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad, adding great flavor without any extra cooking time. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before enjoying it again to recombine the ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the cooked chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also replace the honey in the dressing with agave syrup or simply omit it for a lighter flavor.
What Else Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to customize this salad! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, chopped bell peppers for sweetness, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist. The options are endless!
