Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
Introduction
This cucumber chicken salad is a classic and refreshing dish packed with fresh vegetables for added flavor and crunch. Tossed in a light, tangy dressing, it makes an ideal quick lunch or a healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 1 whole large cucumber (diced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely diced)
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken and pour the dressing over it. Gently fold in the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Step 4: Before serving, optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or add a lemon wedge on the side. Enjoy it with a croissant, on top of lettuce, or on its own.
Tips & Variations
- Choose firm cucumbers with smooth skins to ensure your salad stays crunchy.
- After chilling, taste the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture and flavor, consume within this time. When ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred or cube it before mixing into the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely. It holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a convenient, healthy option for lunches or light dinners.
Print
Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This classic and refreshing Cucumber Chicken Salad combines tender cooked chicken with crisp cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion, all tossed in a light and tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner option, this chilled salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
Instructions
- Make the dressing. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine the ingredients. Place the cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl and pour the prepared dressing over the chicken. Gently fold in the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing for balanced flavor and texture.
- Chill. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to cool, enhancing its refreshing qualities.
- Garnish and serve. Before serving, optionally add fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for extra aroma and flavor. Serve with a lemon wedge on the side. This salad pairs wonderfully with a croissant, atop a bed of lettuce, or simply on its own for a light meal.
Notes
- Choose firm cucumbers with smooth, solid skins to ensure the salad remains crunchy and fresh.
- After chilling, taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cucumber Chicken Salad, chicken salad recipe, healthy chicken salad, quick lunch salad, no cook chicken salad, fresh vegetable salad
