Cucumber Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s the picture of this cucumber chicken salad served on a split long fresh baguette – just like a chicken salad sub:

If you like cucumber chicken salad, also check out my recipe for chicken salad with grapes – yum!

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Cucumber Chicken Salad

• Cutting Board – Provides a safe surface for chopping chicken, egg, and cucumber.
• Sharp Knife – Ensures precise and easy chopping of all ingredients.
• Mixing Bowl – Holds all the ingredients while you combine them.
• Measuring Spoons – Helps measure the mayonnaise for perfect consistency.
• Spoon or Spatula – For mixing the salad ingredients together evenly.
• Peeler (Optional) – Useful if you want to peel the cucumber.

How To Make Cucumber Chicken Salad

• Chop the cooked chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Dice the hard-boiled egg into small chunks for an even texture.
• Peel the cucumber if desired, then cut it into small cubes.
• Combine the chopped chicken, egg, and cucumber in a mixing bowl.
• Add mayonnaise to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
• Season the salad with salt and pepper to your taste.
• Serve immediately or chill for a more refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cucumber chicken salad on a bed of fresh kale and quinoa for a light and refreshing meal.
• Spread it between slices of challah bread or soft bread to make a satisfying sandwich.
• Use it as a filling for wraps, along with lettuce and tomato, for a quick portable lunch.
• Pair it with a bowl of egg drop soup for a comforting and complete meal.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, for added color and flavor.

Tips For Success

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use a freshly cooked chicken breast and crisp cucumbers. If you’re using leftover chicken, ensure it’s well-seasoned for an extra flavor boost.
• Perfectly Hard-Boiled Eggs: To make peeling easier, use eggs that are a few days old and cool them in ice water after boiling. This helps prevent sticking.
• Chop Consistently: Ensure all ingredients are chopped into similar sizes. This creates a uniform texture, making every bite balanced and delicious.
• Adjust the Mayo: Start with the recommended amount of mayo, and add more if needed to achieve your desired consistency. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute.
• Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper a little at a time, tasting as you go. This ensures the flavors are just right without over-seasoning.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad even more refreshing.
• Custom Add-Ins: For added crunch, mix in chopped celery or bell peppers. You can also experiment with fresh herbs, like dill or chives, to enhance the flavors.

Variations And Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap the chicken breast for rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even canned tuna for a quick alternative. For a vegetarian option, you can use diced tofu or chickpeas instead.
• Cucumber Alternatives: If cucumbers aren’t available, you can substitute zucchini or chopped celery for a similar crunch. Adding diced bell peppers can also provide extra texture and color.
• Dressing Alternatives: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor. You can also try a mix of sour cream and Dijon mustard for a zesty twist.
• Herbs and Spices: Add a burst of flavor with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro. For a spiced-up version, sprinkle in paprika, cayenne, or garlic powder.
• Add Fruits: For a sweet-savory combination, mix in diced apples or halved grapes. These add a touch of sweetness and extra juiciness.
• Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based mayo and tofu or chickpeas for a completely vegan salad. This keeps the creamy texture while catering to dietary preferences.
• Serving Styles: Roll the salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap. You can also stuff it into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a fun presentation.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Transfer the cucumber chicken salad to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary. If you’ve made it ahead, simply give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the cucumber and mayo do not thaw well, which can affect the texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned for the best flavor.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, chilling it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and Dijon mustard for a lighter and tangier version.

How can I make this recipe low-fat?

Opt for light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content. You can also add more cucumber to keep the salad creamy and refreshing.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

You can include chopped celery, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for added crunch and color.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Certainly! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How do I keep the cucumber from making the salad watery?

If you’re worried about excess moisture, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for a few minutes before mixing. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great meal-prep option! Just store it in individual containers and keep it chilled until ready to eat.

Other Easy Cucumber Recipes

Easy Marinated Cucumbers – Crunchy and Refreshing Side Dish – A light and tangy cucumber dish perfect for adding freshness to any meal.

Chickpea and Cucumber Salad – Simple and Healthy – A protein-packed salad with crisp cucumbers and a zesty dressing.

Shirazi Salad Recipe – Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad – A traditional Middle Eastern salad bursting with fresh flavors of cucumber, tomato, and herbs.

Spicy Korean-Style Cucumber Salad Recipe – A bold and flavorful side dish with a spicy kick and crunchy cucumbers.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

20-Minute Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe – Quick Dinner Idea – A rich and creamy chicken dish ready in just 20 minutes for busy weeknights.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Skewers – Easy Packaged Meal Hack – Juicy teriyaki chicken skewers cooked to perfection in the air fryer with minimal effort.

Chicken and Mushrooms in the Air Fryer – Quick and Delicious – A savory and satisfying chicken dish paired with tender mushrooms, all cooked in the air fryer.

 

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• Creamy Tuna Salad with Greek Yogurt – Light and Protein-Packed
• Classic Marshmallow Fruit Salad – Easy 5-Cup Recipe