This vibrant Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a breeze to whip up! It’s packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing that makes each bite refreshing.
Honestly, this salad is my go-to for warm days. It’s perfect for lazy picnics or quick lunches. Plus, no cooking means more time for fun in the sun! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a time-saver! I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use grilled chicken breast or leftovers from another meal.
Mixed Salad Greens: Arugula and spinach give a great flavor mix. If you want a milder taste, go for romaine or butter lettuce. Feel free to swap in whatever greens you have on hand!
Corn: Grilled or roasted corn adds a smoky sweetness. If you’re short on time, canned corn will work, too, but drain it well to avoid excess liquid in your salad.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you don’t have any, you can substitute it with sliced cucumber or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture without the fat.
Red Onion: Pickled onions add a nice tang, but if you prefer fresh, slice them thinly to reduce their sharpness. You can also use green onions for a milder flavor.
How Do I Grill or Roast Corn Properly?
Grilling or roasting corn gives it a delicious flavor that elevates salads. Here’s how to get it right:
- If using fresh corn, throw the entire cob on a hot grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until you see char marks.
- For roasting, place corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The kernels should be tender and starting to brown.
- Allow the corn to cool slightly, then use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob easily.
Enjoy your perfectly sweet and smoky corn added to salads or other dishes! It’s truly a game changer for flavor.
How to Make Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
- 1 cup corn, grilled or roasted
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, pickled (or fresh, thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette or dressing of your choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you need to grill or roast the corn, add an extra 10 minutes for that. Overall, it’s a quick and simple dish that’s perfect for hot summer days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, grill or roast it until it’s tender. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes on medium heat. Once done, let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob. If you have frozen corn, just thaw it and lightly sauté it in a skillet until warm. Set the corn aside.
2. Set Up the Salad Base:
Grab a large mixing bowl and start by adding your mixed salad greens. This will be the base of our beautiful salad.
3. Add the Tasty Toppings:
Now it’s time to pile on the delicious ingredients! Top the greens with the shredded rotisserie chicken, your beautiful grilled corn, sliced avocado, pickled red onion, crumbled feta cheese, slivered almonds, dried cranberries, and cherry tomatoes if you are using them. This is where all the colors start to shine!
4. Season Your Salad:
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This helps to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
5. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette or your favorite dressing over the top of the salad. Gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients get coated in that lovely dressing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the best freshness. Grab a plate or bowl, scoop some salad, and enjoy this delightful Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and convenience, you can also use grilled chicken breast, leftover roasted chicken, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
You can easily adapt this salad to be vegetarian! Simply omit the chicken and add more protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or black beans. You can also increase the amount of feta cheese or add some quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, it’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. Just add the dressing right before you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Substitute Other Ingredients in This Salad?
Yes, feel free to customize this salad based on what you have on hand! You can swap out the mixed greens for romaine or kale, use walnuts instead of slivered almonds, or substitute the dried cranberries with raisins or even fresh berries for a different twist. Just make sure to balance flavors for the best results!
