This Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a winner! With juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm days.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a fast meal? I just toss everything together and enjoy it on a sunny patio—no heating the kitchen! 😊 Perfect for lazy summer lunches!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star ingredient! It’s convenient and tender. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken breast or even leftover grilled chicken works well. You can shred or chop it to your liking.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a great alternative—just make sure to thaw it before use. Canned corn could work too, but fresh or frozen is tastier!
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you can’t find a ripe avocado, consider using guacamole or even some hummus for a similar texture. Just be aware that it will change the flavor a bit.
Feta Cheese: A tangy addition that’s hard to resist! If feta isn’t your style, try goat cheese or even diced mozzarella, but these will give a milder flavor.
Pickled Red Onions: They add a nice zesty bite! You can use fresh red onions for a crunchier option, but be mindful of their stronger flavor. Quick-pickling red onions in vinegar is easy if you want to make your own!
How Do I Grill Corn Perfectly?
Grilling corn can elevate its flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with husked corn or leave the husks on for a smoky flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. If using husks, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Place corn on the grill and turn every few minutes until all sides are charred, roughly 10-15 minutes.
- Once done, let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off and add to your salad.
Feel free to add spices or butter before or after grilling for a flavor boost!
Easy Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup grilled or roasted corn kernels (fresh corn preferred)
- 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- Mixed salad greens (about 4 cups)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette or your favorite dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Just cook the corn and assemble the salad. No cooking required after that! You can enjoy it immediately or store it for later.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
Start by removing the kernels from fresh corn if you’re using it. Grill or roast the corn until it’s lightly charred. This adds a delicious flavor! Once done, set the corn aside to cool.
2. Assemble the Salad Greens:
In a large bowl, lay down a bed of mixed salad greens. This will be the base of your salad, giving it volume and freshness.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to make your salad pretty! Neatly arrange the shredded rotisserie chicken, charred corn, sliced avocado, sliced almonds, crumbled feta, pickled red onions, and chopped dates in sections on top of the greens. This makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the salad evenly with balsamic vinaigrette or your favorite dressing. This adds moisture and flavor to every bite.
5. Season the Salad:
Finish off by sprinkling freshly ground black pepper over the top for added taste. This little touch can really enhance the overall flavor!
6. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together right before serving. If you prefer, you can serve it as a composed salad for a beautiful display that guests will love!
7. Enjoy Your Salad:
This fresh and flavorful summer salad is best enjoyed immediately, so dig in and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just shred or chop it up and toss it in. This is a great way to use up what you already have!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make the salad vegetarian, simply omit the rotisserie chicken and consider adding more plant-based protein like chickpeas or black beans. You can also increase the amounts of avocado and feta for extra texture and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep your salad fresh, consider storing the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Can I Prep the Ingredients in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the grilled corn, shred the chicken, and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just keep everything stored in the fridge, and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant!
