Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that brings the whole family together, look no further than our favorite rotisserie chicken salad! This dish is a perfect blend of fresh greens, juicy chicken, and a sprinkle of sweetness from medjool dates. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends, this salad is always a hit! It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or dress it up for dinner. Plus, it’s all about using simple ingredients that are wholesome and satisfying. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up in no time!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from greens, avocado, and chicken—this salad is a guilt-free delight.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the combination of flavors and textures, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for an easy assembly when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor Explosion: The hot bacon dressing adds a rich flavor that takes this salad to the next level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome foods that come together beautifully to create our favorite rotisserie chicken salad.

For the Salad

• 2 ears of corn, grilled (roughly 1 cup of corn)
• 12 to 16 ounces spring greens, as much as you like!
• 1 rotisserie chicken, meat pulled and chopped (again, use as much or as little as you like here!)
• 1 avocado, thinly sliced
• 6 medjool dates, pitted and chopped
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup pickled onions
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted if you wish

For the Dressing

• 3 slices bacon
• 3 tablespoons bacon fat
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

 

Variations

One of the best things about our favorite rotisserie chicken salad is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use leftover turkey or grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute goat cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
• Change the nuts: Try walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First things first! If you want to make pickled onions, do that either the night before or at least an hour before serving. Making them in advance allows those flavors to really develop. I also recommend preparing the dressing first so it stays warm while you work on everything else.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Start by grilling your corn if you prefer that smoky flavor—it adds so much character! If you have leftover grilled corn on the cob from another meal, feel free to use that too. It’s a great way to save time!

Step 3: Chop Everything Up

With your corn grilled and ready, chop up your rotisserie chicken, dates, and corn off the cob. Measure out your goat cheese and almonds so everything is ready for assembly. This makes putting together your salad super quick!

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, toss your spring greens with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Layer on your chopped chicken, corn, dates, goat cheese, pickled onions, and almonds. Remember to add avocado slices right before serving—they look beautiful and keep their texture!

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing & Enjoy!

Finally, drizzle everything with that warm bacon dressing right before enjoying! The warmth brings out all those lovely flavors. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in happily!

Now that you’ve made our favorite rotisserie chicken salad, get ready for compliments all around! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something truly delightful.

Pro Tips for Making Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect rotisserie chicken salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your salad turns out delicious every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spring greens, ripe avocados, and in-season corn will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your salad. Fresh produce adds vibrant colors and crunch that can’t be replicated with older ingredients.
• Prep Ahead: Preparing components like pickled onions or grilled corn a day in advance can save you time and help develop flavors. This way, you can enjoy a quick assembly on busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
• Warm Dressing: Drizzling a warm dressing over your salad not only enhances the flavors but also slightly wilts the greens, making them more tender and flavorful. It’s a simple touch that elevates the dish!
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with additional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even chickpeas for added protein. This flexibility allows you to customize the salad to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning according to your palate is key. You might prefer more vinegar for acidity or extra salt for flavor—don’t be afraid to make it your own.

How to Serve Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Presentation can elevate any dish, including this delightful chicken salad. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives sprinkled on top add a burst of freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds an extra zing.
• Edible Flowers: For a unique touch, consider adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for a pop of color and elegance.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Whole Grain Bread: A slice of hearty whole grain bread pairs perfectly with the richness of the salad, making it a satisfying meal.
• Chilled Gazpacho: This refreshing cold soup complements the warm notes of the chicken salad while providing a lovely contrast in temperature.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add depth and a smoky flavor that works wonderfully alongside this fresh salad.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette and vegetables adds protein and makes for a fulfilling side that maintains the healthy vibe of your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress yourself and your loved ones with a fabulous bowl of Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This rotisserie chicken salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or healthy lunches throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad components separately to maintain freshness.
• Keep the spring greens, chicken, corn, dates, goat cheese, onions, and almonds in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• The avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients like greens and avocado don’t thaw well.
• However, you can freeze any leftover grilled corn or chicken if needed. Just ensure they are in airtight containers.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored the chicken and corn separately, you can reheat them in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the salad greens or avocado; add them fresh right before serving to keep that delightful crunch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. Just shred and chop it before adding it to your salad.

What can I substitute for goat cheese in this rotisserie chicken salad?

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try using feta or even a vegan cream cheese alternative for a similar texture without the animal-derived products!

How do I make my own pickled onions for this salad?

To make quick pickled onions, slice red onions thinly and soak them in equal parts vinegar and water with a bit of sugar and salt for at least an hour. This adds a delicious tang to your salad!

How long will leftovers of Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad last?

If stored properly in airtight containers, the components can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Just remember to keep the avocado separate until serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Our Favorite Rotisserie Chicken Salad as much as I do! It’s bursting with flavors and textures that come together beautifully. Whether it’s a light dinner or a hearty lunch, this salad is sure to impress! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or dressings. Happy cooking!