This Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days! It features juicy rotisserie chicken, crisp veggies, and tasty dressing.
I love making this salad when it’s hot outside. It feels good to have a beautiful meal without turning on the oven. Plus, it’s super quick—just mix and enjoy! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star ingredient! It’s pre-cooked, which saves time in the kitchen. You can use leftover roasted chicken if you have it, or even grilled chicken for a different flavor.
Corn: Grilled corn gives a nice smoky flavor, but canned corn works in a pinch. If corn isn’t your thing or isn’t in season, try black beans for a hearty substitute.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe avocados, consider using guacamole for a similar texture, or even diced cucumber for crunch.
Mixed Greens: I love using spinach and arugula together, but feel free to mix in kale, romaine, or any greens you prefer. Just keep them fresh!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad a tangy kick. If you’re dairy-free, vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can add a nice flavor. Crumbled goat cheese is also a tasty alternative.
Dried Cranberries or Dates: Both add a touch of sweetness. You can replace them with raisins or any dried fruit you have. I like using chopped nuts for a crunchier texture too.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Combined?
Mixing your salad well ensures every bite is flavorful! Here are steps to help:
- Start with the mixed greens as a base. This keeps everything from getting too soggy.
- Layer chicken and corn evenly; this way, each forkful has both.
- Don’t forget the avocado! Place it nicely around for visual appeal, but also help it stay intact until serving.
- The dressing is key! Mix it well in a small bowl first, and drizzle it over right before you toss the salad to keep greens crisp.
- Gently use your hands or salad tongs to toss everything. You want to combine without squishing the ingredients.
Following these tips guarantees a lovely presentation and balanced flavor throughout your meal!
How to Make The Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup corn, grilled or roasted
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula)
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or dates, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Just gather your ingredients, chop a little, and toss everything together. If you prefer it chilled, you can let it sit in the refrigerator for a bit before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the mixed greens in a large bowl. This will be the foundation of your salad, so make sure they are nicely spread out and ready to hold all the delicious toppings!
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, evenly distribute the shredded rotisserie chicken over the greens. This adds both protein and flavor, making your salad hearty and satisfying.
3. Incorporate the Corn:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the grilled or roasted corn on top of the chicken. The sweetness of the corn complements the chicken beautifully!
4. Add the Avocado:
Carefully place the sliced avocado around the bowl. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks great and gives a creamy texture to the salad.
5. Top with Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle the pickled red onions, crumbled feta cheese, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries or dates over your salad. Each of these ingredients adds its unique flavor and crunch!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will tie your salad together and enhance all the flavors.
7. Drizzle and Toss:
Now, drizzle your dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine the flavors without crushing the ingredients.
8. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Enjoy your salad immediately, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing summer treat. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Happy eating!
Can I Substitute the Rotisserie Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you prefer or have leftovers, you can use grilled chicken breast, cooked shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any alternative is cooked and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the salad.
What If I Don’t Have Pickled Red Onions?
No problem! You can substitute with thinly sliced red onions soaked in vinegar for about 10 minutes, or use regular red onions for a sharper flavor. If you’d like a sweeter element, consider adding a few teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to the salad dressing instead!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To keep the ingredients fresh, store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed within 1-2 days. If possible, add the dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Bell peppers, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors wonderfully. Just chop them up and layer them with the other ingredients for added crunch and nutrition!
