This Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad is light and refreshing, perfect for warm days. It’s filled with crunchy cucumbers, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together.
If you’re like me, you might enjoy stealing spoonfuls straight from the bowl—no judgment! 😄 Toss it together in no time, and you’ve got a tasty meal that feels like a cool breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually use cooked chicken breasts for ease, but you can also use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or tofu.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch. I like to leave the skin on for color and nutrition. If you prefer a different texture, try using a seedless variety or even zucchini.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro’s taste, swap it for dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
Sesame Seeds: The black sesame seeds add a nice touch. If you can’t find them, regular sesame seeds work just fine. You could also skip them altogether if needed.
Dressing: I prefer olive oil for a light flavor, but you can use Greek yogurt or light mayo for creaminess. For a dairy-free version, opt for avocado oil or a dairy-free mayo.
How Do I Cook Chicken for This Salad?
If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, poaching is an easy method. It’s gentle and keeps the chicken moist.
- Fill a pot with water and add a pinch of salt, then bring it to a simmer (not boiling).
- Add your chicken breasts and let them cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove them from the pot and let them cool before shredding.
This method lets you control the seasoning and ensures your chicken won’t dry out. Enjoy your freshly shredded chicken in the salad!
Easy Fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 large cucumber, diced (with skin on for extra crunch and color)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or light mayo for creaminess
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cucumber chicken salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. If you need to cook your chicken, add about 15 minutes to poach it. Once everything is mixed together, you can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a cool, refreshing taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
If your chicken breasts aren’t cooked yet, place them in a pot of gently simmering water. Cook for about 15 minutes or until they are fully cooked. Remove from the water, let them cool, and then shred into bite-size pieces.
2. Dice the Cucumber:
Wash the cucumber thoroughly. Dice it into small, uniform cubes. Keeping the skin on adds color and a delightful crunch!
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and diced cucumber. This forms the base of your delicious salad!
4. Add Fresh Herbs and Seeds:
Add the chopped cilantro or parsley to the bowl, and if you’re using them, sprinkle in the black sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil (or mayo), salt, and pepper until smooth and combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
6. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. If you think it needs more flavor, add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice until it’s just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve this salad immediately for a fresh bite, or if you prefer, chill it briefly in the fridge. Enjoy this quick, healthy salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture!
Happy eating!
FAQ
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken! Simply poach it in gently simmering water for about 15 minutes until cooked through. Once done, let it cool before shredding it for the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas, shredded tofu, or even grilled vegetables for a hearty salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a stir before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and add the dressing right before serving to maintain the freshness of the cucumbers.
