The moment I hear the sizzle of chicken in a hot skillet, I know dinner is going to be something special. Recently, after a long day filled with noise and chaos, I craved a taste of the Mediterranean—a bite that dances on the palate and instantly transports you to sun-kissed shores.
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Cucumber-Feta Salad does just that. Tender, marinated chicken thighs, kissed by fragrant herbs, paired with a crisp salad bursting with vibrant flavors, create a meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Imagine pulling this delicious dish together in under 30 minutes, transforming your weeknight dinner from monotonous to mouthwatering.
Whether you’re looking to impress during a cozy dinner at home or want a satisfying weeknight feast that leaves fast food in the dust, this recipe is your go-to. Let’s dive into the medley of flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser, complete with endless variations to suit your taste!
Why is Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad so irresistible?
Simplicity in preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Vibrant flavors: The fragrant herbs combined with creamy feta create a refreshing explosion of taste.
Healthy indulgence: High in protein and gluten-free, it satisfies cravings without the guilt.
Versatile dressing options: Customize your salad with various dressings, tailoring it to your palate.
Impressive presentation: A colorful feast that pleases the eyes as much as the taste buds; perfect for sharing!
Elevate your dining experience with this delightful Mediterranean twist that will leave you and your guests wanting more!
Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this vibrant and fresh dish that will bring the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
For the Chicken Marinade
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess and tang; use regular yogurt for a lighter texture.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; for convenience, garlic powder can be used.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use less if using table salt due to its finer grain.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; freshly ground will give you a better flavor.
- Dried Oregano or Mint – Infuses chicken with Mediterranean flair; fresh herbs can be swapped in if you double the amount.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The juicy protein base for this meal; chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
For the Cucumber-Feta Salad
- Cucumbers (Japanese, Persian, or mini) – Adds crunch and freshness; any seedless cucumber will do.
- Ripe Tomatoes – Provide sweetness and color; the ripest available is ideal.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for flavor and cooking; high-quality olive oil is recommended for best results.
- Feta Cheese – Introduces a creamy, salty element; substitute goat cheese for a milder option.
- Kalamata Olives – Brings a briny bite to the salad; green olives can be an alternative for a different flavor.
Get ready to enjoy the delightful mingling of flavors this Greek Chicken with Cucumber-Feta Salad offers—a perfect easy weeknight dinner!
How to Make Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad
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Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside ½ cup of this mixture for your salad dressing later.
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Marinate Chicken: Stir in the dried oregano or mint into the prepared yogurt mixture. Generously coat the boneless chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring every crease is covered. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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Drain Salad Vegetables: Chop the cucumbers and ripe tomatoes. Place them in a colander, sprinkling with salt. Allow them to drain for about 10 minutes, which helps keep your salad crisp.
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Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
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Make Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumbers and tomatoes with the reserved yogurt dressing, crumbled feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
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Serve: Plate the beautifully cooked chicken thighs alongside your refreshing cucumber-feta salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet until warmed through, ensuring it stays moist.
Salad: It’s best to consume the cucumber-feta salad fresh, but it can be prepared a few hours in advance. Store it in the fridge, covered, and toss before serving for freshness.
Freezer: If you have extra cooked chicken, freeze it in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop or microwave it with a splash of water to retain moisture, making your Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad tasty again!
What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Salad?
To elevate your Mediterranean meal, consider these delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully with vibrant flavors and textures.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: The fluffy grains infused with aromatic herbs complement the grilled chicken perfectly while adding a lovely texture to your plate.
- Grilled Pita Bread: Warm, fluffy pita adds a comforting touch to your meal. Tear it apart to dip into creamy tzatziki or wrap around the chicken for an extra delight!
- Lemon Roasted Potatoes: These tender, crispy potatoes bring a zesty contrast that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and refreshing salad. A crowd favorite every time!
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Packed with colorful veggies and a citrus vinaigrette, this salad adds a burst of flavor. It’s a healthy, nutrient-dense option that keeps the Mediterranean theme going strong.
- Classic Tzatziki Sauce: A cool, creamy dip made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic is an excellent way to enhance your chicken and salad. It’s a match made in flavor heaven!
- Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad: A sweet and savory twist that provides a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of your meal, leaving everyone craving seconds.
- Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: For a bit of crunch, these seasoned chickpeas make a deliciously addictive snack or side to pair with your chicken and salad; a great source of protein to keep you satisfied!
- Sparkling Lemonade: This bright, fizzy drink will invigorate your palate and complement the culinary journey of flavors within your meal, making it just perfect for warm evenings.
With these delightful accompaniments, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your table!
Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Pork Substitute: Swap chicken thighs for thinly sliced pork tenderloin for a different protein twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Lamb Option: Use marinated lamb pieces instead of chicken, infusing your dish with a unique Mediterranean flavor that’s incredibly rich.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro mixed with your dressing for a fresh herbal explosion.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with grilled eggplant or zucchini slices for a vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor and texture.
- Crispy Add-Ins: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts atop your salad for an irresistible crunch that pairs beautifully with creamy feta.
- Fruit Infusion: Toss in sliced avocados or diced bell peppers for extra creaminess and a pop of color, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade or dressing.
- Dressing Variation: Create a citrus vinaigrette by replacing Greek yogurt with lemon juice and olive oil, offering a lighter, zesty flavor for your salad.
These variations allow you to make this recipe truly your own, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience!
Tips for the Best Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad
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Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up maximum flavor; longer is even better for a more pronounced taste.
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs—these elevate the dish and contribute to vibrant flavors.
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Crisp Vegetables: Drain cucumbers and tomatoes well before adding to the salad to prevent a soggy texture; a quick salt sprinkle aids in this process.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, space the thighs evenly in the skillet to ensure even cooking and a beautiful sear.
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Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add roasted bell peppers or red onions for extra crunch and nutrition; variations can make your Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad even more delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Cucumber-Feta Salad are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen for even more delicious results. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. The salad components, like drained cucumbers and chopped tomatoes, can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead; just toss them together with the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. This way, you can enjoy a vibrant meal that’s just as satisfying and full of flavor, all while saving precious time on busy weeknights!
Greek Chicken With Cucumber-Feta Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
For the juiciest flavor, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred, but you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just remember that thighs tend to remain more tender during cooking.
How should I store leftover chicken and salad?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the salad, it’s best enjoyed fresh; however, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just be sure to toss it well before serving!
Can I freeze the chicken?
Absolutely! If you have extra cooked chicken, you can freeze it in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
How do I know if my cucumbers and tomatoes are ripe?
Choose cucumbers with smooth skin and no dark spots; they should feel firm and heavy for their size. For tomatoes, look for ones with vibrant, deep color, and slightly soft to the touch, signaling ripeness. Avoid any that have wrinkles or dark patches.
Is there a gluten-free dressing option I can use?
Yes! The recipe already utilizes gluten-free ingredients. For the dressing, try combining extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a fresh and zesty alternative if you want to switch things up!
What can I do if my salad becomes soggy?
To prevent sogginess, be sure to drain your cucumbers and tomatoes well before mixing them into the salad. If it does end up wet, consider adding a bit more feta or using it as a base for wraps, which can absorb the excess moisture and add a delicious twist!
Greek Chicken with Cucumber-Feta Salad for a Fresh Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside ½ cup for dressing.
- Stir in dried oregano or mint into the yogurt mixture and coat boneless chicken thighs generously. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Chop cucumbers and tomatoes, place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let drain for about 10 minutes.
- Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained cucumbers and tomatoes with reserved yogurt dressing, crumbled feta, and Kalamata olives. Toss gently.
- Serve cooked chicken thighs alongside cucumber-feta salad. Garnish with herbs or lemon wedges if desired.