Brighten your meals with a Cucumber Chicken Salad, a light and refreshing dish featuring shredded chicken, crisp cucumbers, and vibrant veggies tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a summer recipe for quick lunches, dinners, or meal prep, this salad is ready in just over 30 minutes. Its versatility and fresh flavors make it a standout among chicken cucumber salad recipes. Try this cucumber salad for a healthy, crowd-pleasing option that’s perfect for warm days!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Cucumber Chicken Salad is a go-to summer recipe for its fresh taste and ease. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Light and Crisp: Crunchy cucumbers and a creamy dressing make every bite refreshing.
- Quick Prep: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as a main, side, or sandwich filling for any occasion.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with veggies and lean protein for a nutritious meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite herbs or veggies in this chicken cucumber salad.
Ingredients for Cucumber Chicken Salad
To make this Cucumber Chicken Salad (serves 4-6), gather these ingredients:
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works well)
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Ingredient Tips:
- Chicken: Use rotisserie or poached chicken for quick prep; shred for a smoother texture in this chicken cucumber salad.
- Cucumber: Choose firm, seedless cucumbers for maximum crunch in this cucumber salad.
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo ensures a creamy dressing; vegan mayo works for dairy-free options.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and sweetness; yellow or orange peppers are good substitutes.
- Vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a mild tang; apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch for this summer recipe.
How to Make Cucumber Chicken Salad
Follow these steps to create a Cucumber Chicken Salad:
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp white wine vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded chicken and the prepared dressing, tossing to coat. Gently fold in 1 diced cucumber, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, and 1/4 cup diced red onion until evenly mixed.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, enhancing the taste of this cucumber salad.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired, and serve on croissants, over lettuce, or on its own. Add a lemon wedge for extra zest in this summer recipe.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: ~250 per serving (based on 6 servings)
Servings: 4-6
Macros per Serving: 10g carbs, 15g protein, 18g fat, 2g fiber
Tips for Perfect Cucumber Chicken Salad
- Shred Chicken: Shredded chicken blends better with dressing than cubes for a cohesive texture.
- Dice Evenly: Uniform veggie pieces ensure balanced bites in this salad.
- Chill for Flavor: Refrigeration deepens the flavors, making the salad more refreshing.
- Fresh Herbs: Add parsley or dill just before serving for a burst of aroma.
- Keep Cucumbers Crisp: Pat diced cucumbers dry to avoid excess moisture in this cucumber salad.
Creative Variations to Try
Customize this Cucumber Chicken Salad with these ideas:
- Herb Boost: Mix in fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile in this summer recipe.
- Veggie Swap: Add diced celery or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch in salad.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
- Fruit Twist: Toss in diced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast in this salad.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo or Greek yogurt for a dairy-free Salad.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
This Cucumber Chicken Salad is a versatile summer recipe that shines with thoughtful presentation. Try these ideas:
- Serve in croissants or wraps for a satisfying sandwich-style salad.
- Plate over mixed greens for a light, refreshing lunch perfect for summer.
- Pair with a fruit platter and strawberry iced tea for a vibrant picnic spread.
- Present in a clear bowl to showcase the colorful veggies in this cucumber salad.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon slice for an inviting summer recipe touch.
Storage Tips for Cucumber Chicken Salad
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Stir Before Serving: Mix gently to redistribute dressing, as it may settle.
- Avoid Freezing: The fresh veggies and creamy dressing don’t freeze well.
- Make Ahead: Prep ingredients a day ahead, but combine just before chilling for freshness.
- Best Fresh: Enjoy within 1-2 days for optimal texture in this cucumber salad.
FAQs About Cucumber Chicken Salad
What’s the best way to cook chicken for chicken cucumber salad?
Poach chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes or use rotisserie chicken for a quick summer recipe.
Can I use canned chicken in Cucumber Chicken Salad?
Yes, drain well and break into smaller pieces.
What herbs pair well with cucumber salad?
Parsley, dill, or cilantro enhance the fresh flavors.
Can I make chicken cucumber salad dairy-free?
Swap mayonnaise for vegan mayo or dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free version.
How long does summer recipe salad last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
What pairs well with Cucumber Chicken Salad?
Serve with croissants, a green salad, or fruit for a complete summer recipe meal.
More Summer Salads To Try
Conclusion
This Cucumber Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful summer recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp veggies and creamy dressing, it’s a highlight among chicken cucumber salad recipes. Make it today and enjoy the light, refreshing taste of this delightful cucumber salad!
Cucumber Chicken Salad - A Fresh Summer Delight
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed (rotisserie works well)
- 1 large cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp white wine vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded chicken and the prepared dressing, tossing to coat. Gently fold in 1 diced cucumber, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, and 1/4 cup diced red onion until evenly mixed.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, enhancing the taste of this cucumber salad.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired, and serve on croissants, over lettuce, or on its own. Add a lemon wedge for extra zest in this summer recipe.
Notes
- Shred Chicken: Shredded chicken blends better with dressing than cubes for a cohesive texture.
- Dice Evenly: Uniform veggie pieces ensure balanced bites in this chicken cucumber salad.
- Chill for Flavor: Refrigeration deepens the flavors, making the salad more refreshing.
- Fresh Herbs: Add parsley or dill just before serving for a burst of aroma.
- Keep Cucumbers Crisp: Pat diced cucumbers dry to avoid excess moisture in this cucumber salad.
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