– **Title**: Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
– 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup roasted almonds or walnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette or your choice of dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Instructions**:
1. Begin by shredding the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl or salad bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, red onion, and shredded chicken.
3. Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocado.
4. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts over the top of the salad.
5. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss the salad again lightly to ensure even coating of the dressing.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
8. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing summer meal. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: Spinach, arugula, or spring mix are perfect choices for this salad. If you’re looking for something different, try kale or romaine for a crunchier texture.
Rotisserie Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you can’t find it or prefer a healthier option, grilled chicken breast or canned chickpeas are great alternatives.
Corn: Roasted corn adds a smoky flavor to the dish. If it’s not in season, you can use canned corn, just drain it well. Frozen corn works too—just thaw before adding.
Avocado: Fresh avocado provides creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try using diced cucumber or even sliced apples for a crisp texture.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty punch. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter salad.
How Do You Pickle Onions Perfectly?
Pickled red onions give a tangy and vibrant touch to your salad, but getting them just right can be tricky. The key is balancing the sweetness and acidity in your pickling mixture. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine equal parts vinegar and water with a teaspoon of sugar and salt.
- Slice the onions thinly, then soak them in the mixture for at least 30 minutes. For faster results, let them sit for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge.
- The longer they pickle, the more flavor they will absorb, turning a beautiful pink hue!
How to Make Summer Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup corn, grilled or roasted
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or figs, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare if you have pre-made pickled onions. If you’re making your own pickled red onions, add an extra 30 minutes for soaking. So total time can range from 10 to 40 minutes, depending on your prep choices. It’s a quick and delicious option for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickled Red Onions:
If you’re not using store-bought pickled red onions, slice your red onions thinly. Soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes. This will give the onions a tangy flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
2. Layer the Mixed Greens:
Grab a large salad bowl or platter and layer the mixed greens as the base. This creates a nice foundation for all the delicious toppings you’ll add next.
3. Add the Shredded Chicken:
Next, evenly distribute the shredded rotisserie chicken over the mixed greens. The chicken adds a great source of protein and makes this salad truly filling.
4. Top with Grilled or Roasted Corn:
Pour the grilled or roasted corn over the chicken. This will add a sweet and smoky flavor that really brightens up the salad.
5. Arrange the Avocado Slices:
Neatly place the sliced avocado around the salad. Its creaminess will balance perfectly with the other ingredients.
6. Add the Pickled Red Onions:
Now, sprinkle the soaked pickled red onions over the top. They add a beautiful color and tang to the mix!
7. Sprinkle Feta and Almonds:
Next, add crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds on top of everything. The feta adds a salty bite, while the almonds give a nice crunch.
8. Add Some Sweetness:
Finish off your salad by adding the dried cranberries or chopped figs. They’ll bring a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
9. Dress and Season:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything to combine all those amazing flavors. Enjoy your refreshing summer salad!
Feel free to adjust any ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Happy eating!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred the meat from the bones and discard the skin, and you’ll save time without sacrificing flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Pickled Red Onions?
No worries! You can substitute with thinly sliced red onions, or soak them in vinegar and sugar for 10-15 minutes to create a quick pickling effect. This will add some tanginess without the wait!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting. Leftovers are good for about 1-2 days.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad with other ingredients like grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Just remember to balance the flavors and textures!
