This Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is fresh, tasty, and super simple to whip up! It features juicy rotisserie chicken mixed with crisp veggies and a light dressing.
Perfect for a warm day, this salad is a real crowd-pleaser. I love how it’s ready in no time. Just mix the ingredients and enjoy—no cooking required, how cool is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the heart of your salad. It saves time, but if you’re looking for alternatives, you can use leftover roasted chicken or even canned chicken for a quick fix. Shredded turkey can also work well!
Corn: Fresh corn adds a nice sweet crunch, but frozen corn is just as good. For a unique twist, try black beans instead for added protein and fiber, or even diced bell peppers if corn isn’t available.
Avocado: Creamy avocado is a highlight here. If you’re allergic or just don’t have any, consider using a little Greek yogurt for creaminess, or omit it altogether. Diced cucumber is also a refreshing substitute.
Feta Cheese: This adds a tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Mixed Greens: I love a mix of greens, but you can easily swap in whatever you have. Kale, romaine, or even cabbage can be great choices, just cut them into bite-sized pieces.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Light and Tasty Dressing?
Making a simple dressing can really enhance your salad. Here’s a quick guide!
- Start by whisking together olive oil, which adds richness, with balsamic vinegar for acidity.
- Add Dijon mustard for a bit of tang and honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste.
- Whisk until fully combined and emulsified, meaning it should look smooth and unified.
This dressing is light and complements the salad perfectly without overpowering the fresh flavors! Enjoy!
Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, chopped
- 1 cup grilled or roasted corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 avocado, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1/3 cup chopped dates or dried fruit (optional for sweetness)
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spring mix, spinach, or arugula)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. It’s quick to assemble, allowing you to enjoy a tasty, nutritious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Just mix your ingredients, prepare the dressing, and you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Set it aside to let the flavors come together.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, grill or roast the ears until they’re nicely charred, then carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw it out, pat it dry, and sauté in a dry pan for a few minutes to give it some color.
3. Build the Salad:
Grab a large bowl and layer in your mixed greens as the base. Then, take your chopped rotisserie chicken, corn, sliced avocado, crumbled feta, sliced almonds, pickled red onions, and any chopped dates or dried fruit, and arrange them over the greens. This not only looks beautiful but allows everyone to pick their favorite components!
4. Dress It Up:
Drizzle your previously made dressing over the salad. You can choose to toss everything together gently or keep it layered, letting others mix their servings as they like.
5. Season and Serve:
Give the salad a final sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve it immediately for the freshest flavors and enjoy your delightful summer feast!
This salad is light, delicious, and perfect for hot days. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken from previous meals or roast chicken is a great way to save time and reduce waste. Just make sure it’s finely chopped to blend in well with the salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from getting soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make most of the components ahead of time! Prepare the chicken, corn, and dressing, then store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before you’re ready to serve for the best texture and freshness.
What Other Vegetables Could I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Add diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantities for balance!
