Rotisserie Chicken Salad is such an easy and tasty way to make a quick meal feel special. It’s all about tender, shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with crunchy celery, sweet grapes or apples, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. There’s just something so satisfying about the mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
I love having this salad ready in the fridge for busy days when I want something filling but not too heavy. I usually add a little squeeze of lemon or a pinch of herbs to make it extra fresh. It’s one of those recipes where you can easily swap in whatever you have on hand, making it really flexible and super convenient.
My favorite way to enjoy this salad is piled high on a buttery croissant or tucked into a crunchy wrap. It’s a hit for lunch with friends or a quick dinner, and leftovers turn into a perfect snack the next day. I always think of it as the ultimate easy crowd-pleaser that feels cozy and homemade even when you’re in a rush.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. If you can’t find it, shredded cooked chicken breast or thighs work well too.
Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but kale adds more nutrients and a hearty texture. Spinach is another soft, tender option.
Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess without heaviness. Greek yogurt is tangier, while cottage cheese is milder. Sour cream or mayo can be used if you want richer flavor.
Fresh Dill: Dill adds a fresh, herbal note that pairs wonderfully with lemon. If you don’t have dill, try fresh parsley, chives, or even a pinch of dried dill.
Vegetables: Cucumbers and tomatoes keep the salad light and fresh. If you like, swap in bell peppers or celery for extra crunch. Red onion adds a sharp bite but can be replaced with green onions for a milder taste.
How Can I Make the Dressing Creamy Yet Light?
Balancing creaminess with freshness makes this salad delicious and not too heavy. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a creamy base that’s high in protein and lower in fat than mayo.
- Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors and cut through the richness.
- Drizzle in olive oil for smoothness and a subtle fruity note.
- Mix in fresh herbs like dill to bring a burst of freshness and complexity.
- Season gently with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance.
This method creates a dressing that’s creamy but still light and refreshing, making your salad a perfect meal anytime.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like using a big bowl so everything can be tossed easily without spilling.
- Small bowl – for mixing the dressing; a mini whisk or fork works well to blend ingredients smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board – helps chop vegetables and herbs quickly and safely.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep everything accurate but flexible, so you can adjust flavors to your taste.
- Serving bowls or plates – for presenting the salad nicely when you’re ready to eat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the dill for parsley, basil, or chives to change the herbal flavor; try using what’s fresh and available.
- Add sliced avocado or roasted nuts for extra richness and crunch.
- Mix in apple slices or raisins for a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
- Use different proteins like cooked shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for variety.
Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 3 cups chopped romaine or kale lettuce
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika or seasoning for garnish
- Crackers or pita chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Since the chicken is already cooked, all you need is a little chopping and mixing. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy days or when you want something fresh and easy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, gently mix together the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped lettuce, cucumber slices, diced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine cottage cheese or Greek yogurt with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and blended.
3. Toss and Season:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything gently to make sure all the veggies and chicken are coated evenly. Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you want a brighter flavor.
4. Serve with a Touch of Color and Crunch:
Transfer the chicken salad to bowls. Sprinkle a little smoked paprika or your favorite seasoning on top for a nice color and extra flavor. Serve with crackers or pita chips on the side for a satisfying crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl for combining salad ingredients
- Small bowl for mixing the dressing
- Knife and cutting board for chopping veggies and herbs
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowls or plates
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dill for parsley, basil, or chives to change the herbal taste
- Add sliced avocado or roasted nuts for extra creaminess and crunch
- Mix in apple slices or raisins to add a touch of sweetness
- Try using cooked shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for variety
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water, then pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely. Prepare the salad and dressing and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toss just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days for best freshness. Give it a gentle stir and add a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt?
You can use sour cream or mayonnaise if you prefer a richer dressing. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based yogurt or a simple olive oil and lemon dressing instead.
