Greek-Style Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced English cucumbers
• 1 teaspoons salt, divided
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• teaspoon dried oregano
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cups diced cooked chicken
• cup crumbled feta cheese
• cup diced seeded plum tomatoes
• 1 head Bibb lettuce, or more as needed

Directions

1. Place cucumbers in a colander set on a plate. Toss with 1 teaspoon of salt and allow them to rest for about 30 minutes to draw out excess liquid. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place red onion and 1 cup cold water in a bowl. Soak for 5 to 10 minutes to mellow the strong onion flavor. Drain and rinse the onions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onions, Greek yogurt, Kalamata olives, dill, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Gently fold in the cooked chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and diced tomatoes. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
6. Before serving, stir the salad and serve it on a bed of Bibb lettuce leaves or your preferred greens.

Tips

For a variation, you can use crackers in place of the lettuce for a crunchier bite.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	385
Total Fat	22g (28% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	9g (47% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	115mg (38% Daily Value)
Sodium	1327mg (58% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	9g (3% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	37g (74% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	9mg (10% Daily Value)
Calcium	188mg (14% Daily Value)
Iron	2mg (12% Daily Value)
Potassium	436mg (9% Daily Value)

Servings Per Recipe: 4

Nutrition facts are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Greek-Style Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the wholesome flavors of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy Mediterranean ingredients. With its origins rooted in the traditional Greek cuisine, this salad has become a popular choice for those seeking a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for summer days. In this article, we delve into the origins, regional variations, and distinctive features of the Greek-Style Chicken Salad, as well as its place in modern dining culture.

Origin and History of Greek-Style Chicken Salad

The concept of Greek salads dates back to ancient Greece, where fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives were staples of the local diet. While the modern version of Greek salad often includes feta cheese, olive oil, and herbs like oregano, the dish has evolved over time. Greek-Style Chicken Salad likely emerged as a contemporary twist on the classic Greek salad, incorporating chicken as a protein source for added heartiness. This fusion of traditional Greek ingredients with more recent elements, such as yogurt-based dressings and grilled chicken, has made this salad a staple in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Regional Variations of Greek-Style Chicken Salad

Greek-Style Chicken Salad, like many Mediterranean dishes, is highly adaptable depending on the region and personal preferences. In Greece, for example, chicken might be replaced with lamb or even fish in some variations. The Greek islands also offer different takes on the salad, often using local ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and different varieties of olives. In countries like the United States and Canada, where Greek cuisine has been embraced, Greek-Style Chicken Salad is typically made with grilled chicken breast, which is more widely available. Additionally, the use of Greek yogurt as a dressing is an American influence, replacing the more traditional olive oil-based vinaigrettes.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Greek-Style Chicken Salad shares some similarities with other Mediterranean-inspired salads, it stands apart in several key ways. Compared to a traditional Greek salad, which typically consists of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, the addition of chicken makes it a more substantial meal. Unlike chicken Caesar salads, which use creamy dressings, Greek-Style Chicken Salad features a lighter yogurt-based dressing, giving it a fresh, tangy taste. The use of Kalamata olives and fresh dill, common in Greek cuisine, also adds unique flavor notes not typically found in salads from other regions.

Where is Greek-Style Chicken Salad Typically Served?

This salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. In Greece, similar variations of this salad are often served as a side dish or a light lunch, particularly during the warmer months. Outside Greece, its a popular option in Mediterranean restaurants, particularly in the United States, where it is often featured as a healthy lunch or dinner choice. Greek-Style Chicken Salad is also commonly found in deli-style eateries, salad bars, and as part of larger mezze platters, where it complements other traditional Greek dishes like tzatziki, pita bread, and grilled vegetables.

Interesting Facts About Greek-Style Chicken Salad

• Did you know that Greek yogurt is a staple in many Mediterranean dishes? It provides a creamy, tangy flavor that is both healthy and satisfying. Its also known for its probiotics, which promote gut health.
• The Kalamata olives used in Greek-Style Chicken Salad are named after the city of Kalamata in southern Greece, known for its distinctive, almond-shaped olives.
• In traditional Greek cuisine, salads are often eaten as part of a larger meal, serving as a side dish to complement other main courses like grilled meats or seafood.
• The salads use of fresh dill and lemon zest highlights the Greek love for aromatic herbs and citrus, which add freshness and depth to their dishes.
• Greek-Style Chicken Salad is a great example of how Mediterranean cuisine emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious.

Conclusion

Greek-Style Chicken Salad is more than just a refreshing mealits a celebration of Mediterranean flavors and healthy ingredients. With its bright combination of vegetables, chicken, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is perfect for those seeking a light yet filling meal. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or part of a larger Mediterranean feast, it remains a timeless favorite in many kitchens around the world. By understanding its history, regional variations, and unique characteristics, we can truly appreciate the simple yet delightful appeal of Greek-Style Chicken Salad.

FAQ about Greek-Style Chicken Salad Recipe

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