Name: Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 3 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded or cubed); 1 cup celery (diced); 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped); 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or wholegrain mustard); 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh, vibrant dish like Rotisserie Chicken Salad. I remember the first time I prepared this meal for a picnic with friends. The sun was shining, and laughter filled the air as I tossed together this salad, knowing it would be a crowd-pleaser. Using a ready-made rotisserie chicken made the preparation a breeze, allowing me to focus on enjoying the day instead of spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, this salad strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health. Every bite is a burst of flavor, making it a go-to choice for lunch or a light dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
27 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

Why Try This Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Quick and Easy Preparation

What I love most about making Rotisserie Chicken Salad is how quick and easy it is. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. The prep involves minimal chopping, as the rotisserie chicken is already cooked and shredded. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal!

Versatile Flavor Combinations

This salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. You can add seasonal vegetables or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home. The creamy dressing, made with Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard, provides a delightful tang that complements the flavors of the chicken and veggies perfectly.

Healthy Yet Satisfying

I appreciate how Rotisserie Chicken Salad can be both satisfying and healthy. The use of Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise cuts down on calories while adding protein. With the addition of fresh celery and parsley, you’re not only adding flavor but also extra nutrients. It’s a dish that makes you feel good about what you’re eating.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or light dinners. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the salad.

Great for Gatherings

Whenever I have friends over, Rotisserie Chicken Salad is always a hit. Whether served as a light lunch, at a barbecue, or as part of a potluck, it never fails to impress. The colorful presentation and delightful flavors make it a dish that everyone wants to try.

Fresh and Flavorful

Lastly, there’s nothing quite like the freshness of homemade salads. Each bite of Rotisserie Chicken Salad is bursting with flavors, thanks to the combination of crisp vegetables and tender chicken. It’s a dish that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness while being remarkably simple to prepare.

Ingredients Overview for Rotisserie Chicken Salad

The ingredients for Rotisserie Chicken Salad are not only simple but also work harmoniously together. The star of the dish, the rotisserie chicken, provides a savory base, while the crunchy celery and red onion add texture and a refreshing bite. The creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard ties everything together, creating a well-balanced salad that’s satisfying yet light.

3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or cubed: The main protein that provides a rich, savory flavor.
1 cup celery, diced: Adds a satisfying crunch and a fresh taste.
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides a sharp, zesty flavor that complements the salad.
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayonnaise, adding creaminess and protein.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a tangy kick to the dressing.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the dish.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant color.

Making This Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Creating the Rotisserie Chicken Salad is as straightforward as it gets. With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time. Follow these detailed instructions to make this delightful dish!

In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion. Use two forks or your hands to break up any larger pieces of chicken and ensure everything is evenly distributed. You want each bite to be packed with flavor, so mix it well!
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. This will create a creamy dressing that’s tangy and full of flavor. Make sure to whisk until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. This dressing is what brings the whole salad together!
Once you have your dressing ready, pour it over the chicken salad mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing evenly coats the chicken and vegetables. You want every bite to be creamy and flavorful.
Stir in the chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. This not only adds flavor but also brightens up the salad with a pop of color. Be gentle while mixing to keep the chicken pieces intact.
Serve the salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serving it chilled enhances the flavors and makes it even more refreshing, especially on a warm day.
Enjoy your Rotisserie Chicken Salad on its own or over a bed of greens for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with whole grain crackers or on a sandwich for a delightful lunch option.

Things Worth Knowing

Keep the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
When making this salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately until serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Feel free to add additional ingredients like nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
Using leftover rotisserie chicken from another meal is a great way to save time and reduce waste.

Tips and Tricks about Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Making the perfect Rotisserie Chicken Salad is as much about the technique as it is about the ingredients. Here are some valuable tips to elevate your dish:

Storage: Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the vegetables can change once thawed.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or a side of fruit for a balanced meal.
Customization: Feel free to add chopped apples or grapes for a sweet twist, or throw in some nuts for crunch.
Presentation: Serve the salad in a colorful bowl to make it visually appealing on your table.
Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken from another meal!

Serving Ideas for Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Serving Rotisserie Chicken Salad can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine:

On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of fresh mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
Wrap It Up: Use whole grain or lettuce wraps to create a delicious and portable meal.
At a Picnic: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Serve it alongside fresh fruits and whole grain crackers.
For Lunch Boxes: Pack it in lunch boxes for a nutritious meal on the go. It keeps well and is a satisfying option for midday hunger.
Garnish: Top with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.
Seasonal Variations: In summer, pair it with cold pasta salad, and in winter, serve it with warm crusty bread.

FAQ

You can serve Rotisserie Chicken Salad with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. It pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread, crackers, or even on a bed of greens for a light lunch. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad. The versatility of this salad makes it a great option for any occasion!

Absolutely! In fact, Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a fantastic dish for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness. This way, you’ll have an easy and delicious meal ready to go for busy days!

Definitely! One of the best things about Rotisserie Chicken Salad is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as chopped apples, grapes, or nuts for an extra crunch. You can also swap out the celery and red onion for other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to tailor this salad to your taste preferences.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Rotisserie Chicken Salad can last for up to three days in the fridge. However, it’s best enjoyed when fresh. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it’s best to discard it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety!

Conclusion

This Rotisserie Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience, combining fresh ingredients and bold flavors in each bite. I highly encourage you to try this recipe at home; it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet dinner or a lively picnic. You won’t be disappointed with the vibrant tastes and ease of preparation, so go ahead and indulge yourself tonight!