If you’re craving a salad that feels fresh, crisp, and packed with flavor, this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It perfectly balances tender chicken with refreshing cucumbers and a hint of tangy mayo dressing, creating a dish that’s light yet satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch, a picnic treat, or a simple dinner, this salad is a wonderful way to bring bright, crunchy textures together with savory, comforting chicken in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but play crucial roles in making your Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe sing. Each one adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color that turns this easy dish into something truly special.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: This creamy base binds everything together and adds that smooth, luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten and balance the richness of the mayo.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Just enough to bring gentle warmth and depth to your dressing.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the fresh flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick without overwhelming the palate.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed): The hearty protein that makes this salad satisfying.
- 1 large cucumber (diced): Crisp and hydrating, cucumbers bring that refreshing crunch every bite needs.
- ½ cup red bell pepper (finely diced): Adds sweet crispness and vibrant color to the mix.
- ¼ cup red onion (finely diced): Gives a mild yet zesty sharpness to complement the other ingredients.
How to Make Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This creates a smooth dressing that’s tangy, garlicky, and perfectly seasoned to bring all the ingredients together.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Next, add the shredded or cubed cooked chicken, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into the bowl with your dressing. Gently fold everything until all the fresh veggies and chicken are well coated, ensuring each bite has a balance of creaminess and crispness.
Step 3: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
For best results, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully while keeping everything refreshingly cool.
How to Serve Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your salad with some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to add a burst of green freshness. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can add an exciting crunch as well.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita on the side, perfect for scooping or making a light sandwich. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a warm grain like quinoa or couscous.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe in lettuce wraps or inside hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a fun, elegant appetizer. You could also stuff it into whole wheat pita pockets for a portable and satisfying lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumber may release some moisture over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers.
Freezing
Because the salad contains fresh cucumbers and mayonnaise, it’s best not to freeze it. Freezing would negatively affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you want a warm meal, consider adding the salad atop toasted bread or alongside a hot dish instead.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that works perfectly in the Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you want a lighter or tangier dressing. It will change the texture slightly but still taste delicious.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, but it’s best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with additions like celery, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots to add more texture and flavor.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of this Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use a vegan mayo alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe is a bright, tasty, and effortless dish that fits right into busy days or relaxed weekends. Its refreshing crunch and creamy dressing make it a standout favorite that friends and family will keep asking for. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salad!
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Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This refreshing Cucumber Chicken Salad is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Combining tender cooked chicken with crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing with a hint of white wine vinegar and garlic, this salad delivers a satisfying crunch and savory taste in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
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
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the shredded or cubed cooked chicken, diced cucumber, finely diced red bell pepper, and red onion into the bowl with the dressing.
- Mix the salad: Gently fold all the ingredients together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, though it can be served immediately.
- Serve: Divide the salad into 6 portions and enjoy as a standalone dish or with bread or crackers for a light meal.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Make sure to drain the diced cucumber to avoid a watery salad.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
