Tzatziki Chicken Salad

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken to add a citrusy zing. Let the chicken marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors (or longer if you have the time).

While the chicken is marinating, heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or cubes.

#### Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (be sure to squeeze out any excess water from the cucumber to keep the sauce from getting too watery), minced garlic, dill, mint (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, and adjust seasoning to taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of cucumber, or if you like it tangier, add a little more lemon juice.

#### Step 3: Assemble the Salad
To assemble the salad, start with a base of mixed greens. Add in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives (if using), and any other vegetables or toppings you love. The combination of fresh greens and crunchy veggies creates a light yet satisfying salad that’s perfect on its own or as a side dish.

#### Step 4: Top with Chicken and Tzatziki
Once your salad base is prepared, arrange the sliced chicken on top of the veggies. Drizzle the creamy tzatziki sauce generously over the chicken and vegetables. If you’re a fan of feta cheese, crumble some over the top for that added salty, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the tzatziki.

#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off the salad with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately, or if you’re preparing it ahead of time, keep the chicken and tzatziki sauce separate until you’re ready to eat.

### Why You’ll Love Tzatziki Chicken Salad

– **Refreshing & Light**: The cool, creamy tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables and tender chicken, making this salad ideal for a warm day or when you want a lighter meal.
– **Nutrient-Packed**: With lean chicken, fresh veggies, and the goodness of Greek yogurt, this salad is full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a balanced and satisfying option.
– **Customizable**: You can easily tailor this salad to suit your preferences. Add or omit vegetables, swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu, or add extra toppings like avocado or roasted nuts for crunch.
– **Quick & Easy**: The chicken can be grilled in less than 15 minutes, and the tzatziki sauce comes together in no time, making this a perfect weeknight meal or lunch.

### Final Thoughts

Tzatziki Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and refreshing, with a burst of Mediterranean flavors that transport you to a sunny Greek island with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a light dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this salad will quickly become a go-to favorite. Give it a try, and let the cool, herby goodness of tzatziki elevate your chicken salad experience to a whole new level!