This Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a refreshing treat! It combines tender rotisserie chicken with crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing for a burst of flavor.
Perfect for dinner on a hot night or a picnic with friends! I love tossing in some crunchy nuts or avocados to make it even more fun. Who knew salad could be this exciting? 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: Use a mix of spinach and arugula for a peppery flavor. If you can’t find these, any combination of greens works well—romaine, kale, or even baby greens. Just make sure they’re fresh!
Rotisserie Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for this salad because it saves time. If you need a substitute, you could grill or bake some chicken breasts and shred them, or use leftover chicken from a previous meal.
Corn: Grilled corn brings a nice smoky flavor! If it’s not corn season, canned corn is a good option. Just rinse it well to cut down on sodium and improve the taste.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you have allergies or an aversion, a handful of sunflower seeds can give your salad a nice crunch without the creaminess.
Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy kick. If you’re short on time, you can substitute fresh red onions, but slice them thin to ensure they don’t overpower the flavors.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a delicious salty touch. If you need a dairy-free option, try using cashew cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Has Great Flavor and Texture?
A delicious salad is all about balance and texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with fresh greens; wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.
- Layer your ingredients. Place the shredded chicken on top of the greens for a nice visual and to keep it fresher.
- Drizzle your dressing evenly over the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Toss gently! Over-mixing can crush delicate items like avocado.
- Let it rest briefly if you want to allow flavors to meld, but don’t let it sit for too long to keep the greens crisp.
How to Make Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Base:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup corn (freshly grilled or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or your choice of nuts)
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or your favorite salad dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to put together, making it the perfect choice for a light and refreshing meal on a warm day. Serve it immediately or chill it for a little while to enhance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the mixed greens in a large mixing bowl. This will be the foundation of your salad, so make sure you have an even layer for all the delicious toppings to come!
2. Add the Chicken:
Evenly distribute the shredded rotisserie chicken over the greens. This adds protein and makes your salad hearty. Make sure to cover the greens well for a balanced bite!
3. Layer the Toppings:
Next, it’s time to make your salad look pretty! Add the corn, sliced avocado, pickled red onions, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds in separate sections on top of the chicken. This will create a colorful and appealing presentation.
4. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your salad. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings will really enhance the flavors of the fresh ingredients!
5. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together in the bowl, ensuring everything is evenly mixed. If you’d like, you can let the salad sit in the fridge for a short while to let the flavors meld together. Then, dig in and enjoy your refreshing Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Other Types of Greens Instead of Mixed Greens?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any greens you prefer, such as romaine, kale, or even a pre-packaged salad mix. Just be mindful that each type of green has a different texture and flavor, which may slightly change the overall taste of the salad.
How Can I Substitute the Rotisserie Chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken on hand, you can use grilled chicken breast or even leftover roasted chicken. Just shred or chop it similarly for the best results. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try canned chickpeas or grilled tofu for a protein boost!
What Should I Do with Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado might brown, so you can toss a little extra lime juice on it to help preserve its color. When ready to eat, you may want to give it a quick toss to refresh the ingredients!
Can I Add More Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or even fruits like apples or berries for a sweet twist. Just make sure to adjust the dressing so it complements any new flavors you add!
