This Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner! With juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s both tasty and satisfying.
I love how simple it is to make—just shred the chicken and toss it in! Perfect for days when you want something yummy without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the show! It saves time since it’s already cooked. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, feel free to use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken as a quick alternative.
Mayonnaise: A classic ingredient for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead, or mix both for a creamier texture with less fat. Vegan mayo works well for a dairy-free option, too!
Greek Yogurt: It’s optional but adds a tangy flavor along with creaminess. If you’re not a fan of yogurt, sour cream is a good substitute. I love using yogurt for its protein boost!
Celery: This adds crunch and freshness. If you prefer, you can swap it out for diced bell peppers or carrots for a different texture and flavor.
Red Onion: For a bit of zing, but if raw onions are too strong for you, green onions or shallots can be a milder alternative.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Salad Is Flavorful?
Getting good flavor in your chicken salad is key! Start by mixing the dressing ingredients well. Here’s how to make it pop:
- Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Make sure to taste your dressing! Adjust it with more lemon juice for tang or extra mayo for creaminess.
Also, chilling the salad helps the flavors blend beautifully. So give it at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy this fresh, tasty dish with your favorite pita chips or crackers!
Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: cracked black pepper
- Optional: pita chips or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! It takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and then 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So in just under an hour, you can enjoy a deliciously fresh chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, finely chopped celery, and red onion. This mix will form the base of your salad!
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until it’s nice and smooth. This will give your chicken salad a creamy texture and delicious flavor.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together so that the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. This is where all those flavors come together!
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Feel free to tweak the amount of lemon juice or mayonnaise according to your preference for tanginess and creaminess!
5. Chill:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even better.
6. Serve:
Once chilled, serve the salad in a bowl. For a tasty touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top. Pair your salad with pita chips or crackers for some extra crunch!
Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and refreshing chicken salad. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner!
FAQ for Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use any cooked chicken, whether it’s from leftovers, grilled chicken, or even canned chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped for easy mixing!
What If I Don’t Like Mayonnaise?
No worries! You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use avocado for a creamy texture. A vinaigrette can also work if you prefer something tangier!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your chicken salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors!
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad with added ingredients like grapes, apples, or nuts for extra flavor and crunch. Herbs like dill or parsley can brighten it up as well!
