Greek Salad with Baked Chicken Thighs & Tzatziki

Name: Greek Salad with Baked Chicken Thighs & Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups lettuce; 1 red onion (sliced); 1 cup cucumber (sliced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 3 Tbsp dill (chopped); 1/2 cup black olives (pitted); 1 lemon (juiced); 1 block feta cheese (crumbled); 1/2 cup tzatziki; 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp oregano (dried); 1/2 tsp thyme (dried); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Fresh Greek salad with juicy baked chicken thighs, tzatziki, crisp veggies, feta, and olives—a flavorful, easy Mediterranean meal!

green salad with tzatziki for dressing and baked chicken thighs

Greek cuisine is a celebration of vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and wholesome dishes that are both nourishing and comforting. This Greek Salad with Baked Chicken Thighs & Tzatziki is no exception. With a combination of crisp veggies, tangy feta cheese, and juicy chicken thighs, it’s a perfect representation of the Mediterranean flavors we all love. Whether you’re searching for a complete meal or a satisfying side dish, this easy recipe is a great option to add to your weekly rotation.

This salad is not just about taste—it’s about versatility and balance. Pair it with some pita bread for a hearty lunch, or serve it as a side dish alongside a bowl of Greek lemon rice. The addition of tender chicken thighs, seasoned with a delicious marinade of olive oil, oregano, and thyme, makes this a well-rounded dish that’s sure to become one of your favorite ways to enjoy a traditional Greek salad. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a standout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this delicious Greek chicken salad recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep and a cooking time of just 30 minutes for the chicken, you’ll have a flavorful, nutritious meal ready in less time than it takes to order takeout. Plus, the combination of fresh veggies and juicy chicken thighs ensures that every bite is bursting with great flavor and satisfying textures.

Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a large platter for a gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is perfect for any occasion. The tangy kalamata olives, crisp cucumbers, and lemony dressing elevate this dish to new heights, while the creamy tzatziki adds a delightful, cooling touch. It’s a healthy, fresh, and vibrant meal option that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients.

ingredients in homemade green salad with tzatziki dressing

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this easy Greek chicken salad truly special:

Salad Ingredients:

Romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, this is the perfect base for the salad.
Small red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
Cucumber and cherry tomatoes: These fresh veggies bring crunch and juiciness to the salad.
Black olives: Tangy kalamata olives add a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Dill and feta cheese: Fresh dill and tangy feta cheese provide a savory, herbaceous finish.
Lemon juice and tzatziki: The lemony dressing and tzatziki dressing tie everything together with a creamy, tangy flair.

Chicken Ingredients:

Chicken thighs: Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in olive oil, oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper for a savory, aromatic flavor.
Optional add-ins: Crumbled fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

How to Make Greek Salad with Baked Chicken Thighs & Tzatziki

Follow these simple steps to create this delightful Greek chicken salad recipe:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking sheet.
On a cutting board, coat the skinless chicken thighs with olive oil, oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. This delicious marinade gives the chicken a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Place the seasoned chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once done, let the chicken rest at room temperature.

Assemble the Salad

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salad ingredients. In a large salad bowl, add romaine lettuce, crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and sliced red onion.
Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad and sprinkle with fresh dill for added flavor.

greek salad before tossing with tzatziki dressing and lemon juice

Add the Chicken and Dressing

Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into bite-size pieces and place it on top of the salad.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad, drizzle tzatziki dressing generously, and toss everything together in a medium mixing bowl.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve this vibrant Greek salad as a complete meal or pair it with crusty bread, pita bread, or a side of Greek lemon rice for a heartier dinner option.

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How to Store the Recipe

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. To keep the salad mix-ins crisp and the chicken fresh, store the ingredients separately if you plan to eat them later. The cooked chicken and tzatziki dressing can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly in mason jars or sealed containers.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For even cooking: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenders to ensure a consistent texture and quicker cooking time.
Marinate for more flavor: Let the chicken sit in the marinade for a couple of hours before baking to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Alternative dressings: If you’re out of tzatziki, a Greek dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh oregano works wonderfully.
Make it a meal prep option: Store the salad in separate mason jars with the dressing on the bottom to keep the greens from wilting. This is a great way to enjoy an easy dinner or a quick lunch throughout the week.

With its vibrant mix of crisp veggies, juicy chicken thighs, and creamy tzatziki, this Greek Salad with Baked Chicken Thighs is one of those great recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken souvlaki work as excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can leave out the chicken and double up on the fresh veggies, feta, and olives. For added protein, consider chickpeas or grilled tofu.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pita bread, or Greek lemon rice. You can also serve it alongside chicken gyros or a hot skillet of garlic-seasoned veggies for a full Mediterranean spread.

How can I make this recipe in less time?

To save time, you can use precooked chicken or chicken tenders. Another option is to cook the chicken on medium-high heat in a large skillet instead of baking it, which will cut down on cooking time.