When it comes to quick, healthy, and satisfying meals, a chicken and cucumber salad is hard to beat. Combining tender chicken with crisp cucumbers, this dish is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a simple lunch or an appetizer for a gathering, this salad is versatile and easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted peanuts or almonds (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Optional: a pinch of red chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, poach or grill chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let them cool before shredding or dicing.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Thinly slice or julienne the cucumber and onion.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Chop the cilantro or parsley.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if using).
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and herbs.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Add Crunch (Optional):
- Sprinkle toasted peanuts or almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Protein: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or turkey for a different twist.
- Add More Veggies: Include shredded carrots, bell peppers, or edamame for extra color and nutrients.
- Keep it Fresh: Serve this salad fresh to enjoy the crisp texture of the cucumbers.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the components ahead of time but mix the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: It’s great as a light meal, side dish, or party appetizer.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Chicken and cucumber salad is a delightful dish that balances flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Try it today and elevate your salad game with this simple yet delicious creation!