Here is a Greek vegan chicken salad that is healthy and fresh! You will love it. Made with crunchy summer veggies and Daring plant-based chicken, this salad gets drizzled with a lemony, creamy dressing of vegan tzatziki.

This is a really easy vegan chicken salad recipe that is perfect for warm summery days. The simple pantry staples in this recipe are bright and colorful. Everyone will love the crunchy texture and delicious garlic and herby taste in this dish.

If you love trying out new salad recipes, check out this one for a lentil salad or this bright, cheery mango avocado salad. Another one not to be missed is this pretty green goddess couscous bowl – the perfect choice if you want to pack nutrients into your day.

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chicken Salad 

  • Health benefits: This vegan chicken salad is made with whole foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The main ingredients are all fresh, which helps support a well-balanced diet, promote digestion, and provide essential nutrients.
  • Variety and creativity: This Daring plant-based chicken salad is a great base to experiment with. Add other types of vegan proteins to bump up the protein load.  You could also add in other herbs, spices, and dressings to add depth and enhance the flavors.
  • Dietary sensitive: Great for vegans, vegetarians, and those who are lactose intolerant or have egg allergies.
  • Versatility: Vegan chicken salad can be enjoyed in lots of different ways. It can be served as a refreshing salad on its own or used as a filling for lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or pitas. Use slices of bread and make an open sandwich by topping them with this vegan chicken salad. The versatility of vegan chicken salad allows you to get creative and adapt it to your preference. This a great recipe for summer picnics.
  • Super tasty: From the Daring plant-based chicken to the tasty Tatziki, this mock chicken salad is such a great dish. It has the perfect taste and texture and is full of delicious herbs, seasonings and so much flavor.

Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Daring lemon & herb vegan chicken: A great option in place of chicken. This plant-based chicken option is pre-seasoned with lemon and herbs. It provides a savory and tangy element to the salad. If this is your first time cooking with this ingredient, you will be surprised how easy it is.
  • Vegan tzatziki: Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce typically made with yogurt, cucumber, and herbs. For a vegan version, you can use vegan plain Greek yogurt, such as the one from Kite Hill. If you want to use something else, use vegan mayonnaise to make the dressing. You can stir in Dijon mustard and all the other ingredients listed under the tzatziki recipe.
  • Lemon juice: For brightness and a zesty flavor to the salad. It goes well with the seasoned plant-based chicken and lightens the rich taste of the tzatziki.
  • Garlic powder: A lovely subtle garlic flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the taste of the salad.
  • Fresh dill: A herb commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It has a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with lemon and cucumber.
  • Olive oil: Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cooking and is used in the dressing for its rich flavor. You can use any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point.
  • Cucumber: Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. Traditionally, cucumber is a key ingredient in Greek salad.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and acidity to the salad. They add vibrant color, too.
  • Red wine vinegar: Provides tanginess and a subtle depth of flavor to the salad dressing. You can use another vinegar if you like, such as apple cider or balsamic but they may be stronger in taste.
  • Garlic clove: Fresh garlic cloves bring a strong and aromatic flavor to the salad dressing.
  • Oregano: This is a classic Mediterranean herb with a robust and earthy flavor.
  • Vegan feta cheese: Vegan feta cheese, such as the one from Follow Your Heart, provides a salty and tangy element to the salad. It adds a crumbly texture and a hint of creaminess.

Pro Tips and Tricks

  • Add texture with nuts and seeds: Chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds can all work well. Sprinkle them over the salad just before serving to hold onto their crunchiness.
  • Experiment with dressing variations:  You can try a classic vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of agave or maple syrup for sweetness. Alternatively, you can create a creamy dressing using vegan mayonnaise or yogurt as a base and add flavors like garlic, dill, or lemon zest.
  • Let it chill: After you’ve prepared your vegan chicken salad, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
  • Don’t overdress: When adding the dressing to your vegan chicken salad, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more as needed.
  • Make it beforehand:  Prepare all the ingredients and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them and dress the salad. This is especially convenient for parties, picnics, or meal prep

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Crunchy veggies: Add extra crunch to your salad by including vegetables like shredded cabbage, thinly sliced radishes, bell pepper, jicama, green onions, or water chestnuts.
  • Fresh fruit: Toss in diced fruits to add a touch of sweetness and a burst of flavor. Add chopped apples, green grapes, pomegranate seeds, or diced mango.
  • A pinch of spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to your salad.
  • Creamy avocado: Mash ripe avocado and use it as a creamy base instead of or in addition to vegan yogurt or mayonnaise.
  • Fresh herbs: Experiment with different herbs to elevate the flavors of your salad. Add chopped fresh basil, cilantro, mint, or tarragon to infuse your salad.
  • Pickled ingredients: For tanginess and a burst of acidity by including pickled ingredients: thinly sliced pickles, pickled onions or capers.
  • Grain power: Make your vegan chicken salad heartier by adding cooked grains like quinoa, canned chickpeas, bulgur, farro, or couscous. This will not only increase the nutritional value but also a great way to add chewiness to the salad.
  • Asian twist: Use ingredients like shredded carrots, edamame, chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of soy sauce or tamari.
  • Smoky seasonings: Brings a smoky and robust flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or liquid smoke over your vegan chicken or dressing. This will add a barbecue-like taste!
  • Tangy citrus: Dial up the citrusy flavors in your salad by adding segments of grapefruit, orange, or mandarin. The burst of tanginess will brighten up the overall taste of the dish.

Make Ahead Instructions and Storage

You can cook the Daring chicken and prepare the vegetables and tzatziki beforehand. Pop them into the fridge and store them in plastic bags or containers until you can complete the dish.

Once the vegan chicken salad is assembled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help preserve its freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Choose a container that is the appropriate size for the salad, allowing minimal air space. This helps prevent the salad from wilting and maintains its texture.

If your salad has different layers, such as greens on the bottom and toppings on top, layer them in a way that prevents the ingredients from getting soggy. Place the more delicate or moist ingredients on top to keep them separate from the dressing or other liquid components.

Serving the dressing separately is a great way to keep the salad leftovers for longer. This will prevent the salad from becoming overly soggy. Keep the dressing in a separate container and add it before serving or pack it separately if you’re taking the salad on the go.

Vegan chicken salads are best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal taste and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade vegan chicken in this recipe?

Yes!  Simply prepare and season your homemade vegan chicken according to your preference, and incorporate it into the salad as directed in the recipe.

Can I make substitutions for the vegan yogurt in the Tzatziki dressing?

Yes, you can make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or ingredient availability. If you prefer a different base for the Tzatziki dressing instead of vegan yogurt, you can try using mashed avocado, tahini, or even a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Firstly, ensure that the vegan chicken you choose is gluten-free. Some brands offer gluten-free options, but always check the packaging for any potential allergens. Additionally, if using store-bought vegan feta cheese, confirm that it is gluten-free as well. Lastly, double-check any seasonings, condiments, or other ingredients you plan to include for gluten-containing additives and opt for gluten-free alternatives if necessary.

INGREDIENTS

  • 8oz Daring Lemon & Herb vegan chicken,

For Vegan Tzatziki

  • 1 cup vegan plain Greek yogurt, I used Kite Hill
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 tablespoon dill
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

For Salad

  • 1 Cucumber, sliced
  • 1-pint cherry tomatoes, or sliced tomatoes of your choice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • vegan feta cheese for topping, I used Follow Your Heart

METHOD

  1. Cook the vegan chicken according to the package
  2. Prepare the cucumber salad by combining all ingredients into a mixing bowl and toss to combine.
  3. Make the tzatziki by whisking all the tzatziki ingredients together until creamy.
  4. To serve, place the vegan chicken, cucumber salad, tzatziki, over greens or brown rice in a bowl. Top with feta cheese and extra dill (optional)

Greek Chik’n Bowl

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Course Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Daring Lemon & Herb vegan chicken

Vegan Tzatziki

  • 1 cup vegan plain Greek yogurt I used Kite Hill
  • 1 tbsp  lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 4 tbsp dill
  • 1/4 cup  olive oil

For Salad

  • 1 cucumber sliced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes or sliced tomatoes of your choice
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • vegan feta cheese for topping,  I used Follow Your Heart

Instructions
 

  • Cook the vegan chicken according to package
  • Prepare the cucumber salad by combining all ingredients into a mixing bowl and toss to combine.
  • Make the tzatziki by whisking all the tzatziki ingredients together until creamy
  • To serve, place the vegan chicken, cucumber salad, tzatziki, over greens, or brown rice in a bowl. Top with feta cheese and extra dill (optional)