Chicken-Cucumber Salad
A refreshing chicken and cucumber salad featuring tender cooked chicken, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. Ideal for quick lunches or light dinners, it's perfect for hot days or when you want a satisfying, chilled dish that combines savory and cool flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- Rinse with cold water; drain again.
- Mix mayonnaise, chopped onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss the cooked macaroni, chopped cooked chicken, and chopped cucumber with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours or until chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped herbs like dill or parsley. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch. Make sure the macaroni is thoroughly cooled before mixing to keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken-cucumber salad on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing lunch or light dinner. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of fresh fruit. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a warm dish like Low-Fat Broccoli Casserole. This salad is perfect for picnics and potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, you may want to add a little more mayonnaise or yogurt before serving. Avoid reheating as this dish is best enjoyed cold. If you plan to serve later, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Cucumber Salad contains roughly 119 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2131mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor to the salad. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix it into the salad as directed. This is a great way to repurpose leftovers while enjoying a delicious meal.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad heartier, consider adding ingredients like cooked beans, chickpeas, or even diced avocado. These additions will boost the protein and fiber content, making it a more satisfying meal. You could also serve it with a side of whole grain crackers to add some crunch.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and using a vegan mayonnaise. You might also want to add ingredients like diced celery or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and cruelty-free version of the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).