This Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of tasty chicken, crunchy veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something light yet filling!
I love making this salad because it saves time—just grab a rotisserie chicken and mix! It feels great to have a meal that’s both easy and delicious. Who knew salads could be this fun? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a combination of arugula, romaine, and spinach for a variety of textures and flavors. You can mix in other greens like kale or spring mix, depending on what you have on hand.
Rotisserie Chicken: This is great for ease! If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled chicken breast or leftovers from another meal work too. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for flavor.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. If it’s out of season, canned or frozen corn works well too. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn, or heat up frozen corn before adding it to the salad.
Avocado: Sliced avocado gives a creamy texture. If avocados aren’t ripe or are unavailable, try using sliced cucumbers or even diced apples for a refreshing crunch.
Pickled Red Onions: These give a tangy kick. If you’re short on time, store-bought is fine! Alternatively, you can use regular raw onions or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a nice saltiness. Goat cheese is a lovely alternative if you prefer a creamier option, or you could skip cheese for a dairy-free salad.
How Do I Perfectly Toss My Salad Without Mashing the Avocado?
The key to tossing the ingredients without mashing the avocado is to be gentle. Start by layering your heavier ingredients at the bottom and the avocado on top to avoid squishing it during mixing. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large bowl so you have plenty of space.
- Layer your ingredients as listed. When it’s time to toss, lift from the bottom up rather than stirring in circles.
- Consider using two large serving spoons to carefully lift and turn the salad, incorporating everything without applying too much pressure.
With a little care, you’ll keep those beautiful avocado slices intact! Enjoy your salad making!
How to Make Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like arugula, romaine, and spinach)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup corn, grilled or boiled, and cut off the cob
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup pickled red onions (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare. If you prefer it chilled, you can pop it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes after mixing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding your mixed salad greens. This will be the tasty base of your summer salad. Make sure the bowl is large enough to toss everything together later!
2. Layer on the Chicken:
Next, take your shredded or diced rotisserie chicken and layer it evenly over the greens. This adds lots of flavor and protein to keep you satisfied.
3. Add the Tasty Toppings:
Now it’s time to pile on the delicious toppings! Sprinkle the cooked corn, sliced avocado, pickled red onions, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted slivered almonds on top of the chicken. Each ingredient will enhance the flavors of the salad.
4. Drizzle and Season:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar all over the salad. Then, season with a little salt and pepper to taste. The dressing will tie everything together perfectly.
5. Toss Gently:
With everything in the bowl, gently toss the salad to mix all the ingredients. Be careful not to mash the avocado while doing this—you want it to stay nice and intact!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad right away for a fresh taste, or if you like it colder, let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. Enjoy your refreshing and colorful Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the salad greens with whatever you have on hand. Kale, mixed baby greens, or even iceberg lettuce would work well. Just remember to wash and dry them properly before assembling your salad!
Can I Substitute the Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken in this salad. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, just shred or dice it up. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or another plant-based protein for a satisfying alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. While the salad may lose some crunch over time, it’s still delicious! If you plan to store it, consider keeping the dressing separate to keep the greens fresh longer.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or even fruits like berries or mango for a sweet twist. Just keep in mind to adjust the dressing quantities if you add extra ingredients!
