The Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a refreshing, light, and satisfying dish perfect for hot days when you crave something quick yet flavorful. It’s packed with juicy rotisserie chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, lunch, or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become a staple in your summer recipe collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotisserie chicken, shredded
• Mixed salad greens
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, sliced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Avocado, diced
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or cilantro), chopped
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and feta cheese.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace rotisserie chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different flavor.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts like almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
• Fruit Twist: Add fresh fruits such as strawberries, mango, or grapes for a sweet contrast.
• Grain Boost: Mix in quinoa, farro, or couscous for added texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

2. What type of rotisserie chicken works best?

A classic, lightly seasoned rotisserie chicken works best, but you can use any flavor you prefer.

3. How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese, blue cheese, or mozzarella can be great substitutes for feta.

5. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, like Dijon mustard, are certified gluten-free.

6. What can I use instead of honey in the dressing?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

7. How can I make this salad more filling?

Add grains like quinoa or chickpeas to increase the protein and fiber content.

8. Can I use leftover grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly in this salad.

9. How do I store leftovers without the salad getting soggy?

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to keep the greens crisp.

10. What herbs pair well with this salad?

Fresh basil, parsley, cilantro, or dill complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

The Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is the perfect go-to dish for warm weather, offering a combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your taste, and ideal for both casual lunches and gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy a refreshing bite of summer in every forkful!

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