This easy summer rotisserie chicken salad is perfect for warm days! With juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a light dressing, it’s a tasty dish that’s simple to whip up.
I love it because I can use leftover chicken and just toss in my favorite veggies. Plus, it’s so refreshing – a real winner for picnics or lunch! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of greens provides variety and nutrition. You can also use just spinach or arugula if that’s what you have on hand. Freshness is key, so try to use whatever looks good at the store!
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a huge time-saver! Leftover roast chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tofu as a protein source.
Grilled Corn: Fresh corn adds a smoky flavor, but canned or frozen corn can work as a substitute. Just give frozen corn a quick sauté to warm it up. It’s much easier!
Avocado: If you’re not a fan of avocado, you could swap in diced cucumber or even cooked sweet potatoes for creaminess.
Feta Cheese: If feta isn’t your style, crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free option would fit nicely. Just keep it crumbly!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Corn?
Grilled corn adds amazing flavor to your salad, but getting it just right can be tricky. Here’s a simple guide:
- Start by peeling back the husk and removing the silk.
- Lightly brush with oil and season with salt if you like.
- Grill over medium-high heat, turning every few minutes until it’s charred but not burnt (about 8-10 minutes).
- Once done, let it cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Grilling brings out the sweetness, making it a highlight of your chicken salad!
Why Are Quick Pickled Red Onions a Must?
Quick pickled red onions add tang and crunch to your salad. They’re super easy to make and can elevate any dish. Start with slicing the onions thin.
- Combine 1/2 cup hot water with 1/4 cup vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Let the mixture cool before adding the onions. You can refrigerate them for even more flavor.
- Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you’re preparing in advance.
These will add a zesty kick that’s hard to resist!
Enjoy making this refreshing summer salad and feel free to customize it to your liking!
Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups mixed salad greens (like spring mix or baby spinach)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, chopped
- 1/2 cup grilled or charred corn kernels (fresh or frozen and cooked)
- 1/2 medium avocado, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pickled red onions (optional, see quick pickling method below)
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and perfect for those warm summer days when you want something light but filling!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended. Set aside for the flavors to meld.
2. Grill or Char the Corn:
If you are using fresh corn, grill or cook the kernels in a hot pan until they are slightly charred, which adds a nice smoky flavor. Once done, let them cool for a minute.
3. Arrange the Salad:
In a large bowl, start with the mixed salad greens as your base. Layer on the chopped rotisserie chicken, grilled corn, sliced avocado, sliced almonds, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dates, and the pickled red onions arranged attractively for a colorful presentation.
4. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine everything or leave it as is for guests to mix their portions at the table.
5. Season to Taste:
Add any additional salt and fresh black pepper as desired to enhance the flavors.
Quick Pickled Red Onions (optional):
If you’d like to add a tangy crunch with quick pickled onions, follow these steps:
- Thinly slice 1 small red onion.
- In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup hot water, 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Add the sliced onions and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to pickle. For best flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and easy-to-make summer chicken salad! It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or a picnic in the sun!
FAQ for Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Can I Use Different Greens for This Salad?
Absolutely! While mixed greens like spring mix or baby spinach work great, feel free to use romaine, kale, or even arugula based on your preference. Just make sure they are fresh and crisp!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most of the ingredients in advance! Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Rotisserie Chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken breast or thighs (shredded or chopped) can be used. For a vegetarian alternative, try using chickpeas, tofu, or even grilled tempeh for added protein!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. You can enjoy it cold or gently reheat any chicken while refreshing the salad with a splash of dressing.
