Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is a time-saving lifesaver thanks to the convenience of rotisserie chicken. It’s incredibly versatile—you can keep it classic or customize it with fruits, nuts, herbs, or spices. The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy add-ins, and savory chicken creates a well-balanced, flavorful salad that’s great for making ahead and enjoying all week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
• Celery, finely diced
• Red onion or green onion, finely chopped
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional add-ins: grapes, dried cranberries, chopped apples, toasted almonds, fresh dill, parsley

Directions

1. Remove skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken, then shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, onion, and any optional mix-ins you like.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
7. Serve on sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or over a bed of greens.

Servings and timing

Makes 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Total time: About 45 minutes

Variations

• Fruit and nut version: Add halved grapes, chopped apples, and toasted walnuts or almonds.
• Herbed chicken salad: Mix in fresh dill, parsley, or chives for extra flavor.
• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne.
• Greek-inspired: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and add cucumber, feta, and olives.
• Avocado version: Mix in mashed avocado or replace half the mayo with avocado for a creamy, healthy boost.

Storage/Reheating

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate when thawed.
Serve cold or at room temperature—no reheating required.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, any cooked chicken works well, though rotisserie adds extra flavor and convenience.

How long does rotisserie chicken salad last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is chicken salad served cold or hot?

Chicken salad is traditionally served cold or at room temperature.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just make sure your mayonnaise is dairy-free, and avoid using yogurt or cheese.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or a combination of both for a healthier alternative.

What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?

It’s great in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, pita pockets, on crackers, or as a salad topping.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended due to the mayo-based dressing, which can separate when thawed.

How do I make it lighter?

Use light mayo or substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.

What vegetables work well in this salad?

Celery, onions, bell peppers, and even shredded carrots are excellent additions.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, and it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a fast, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for easy lunches, snacks, or light dinners. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and crisp veggies, it hits all the right notes for a refreshing, satisfying meal. Simple to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Rotisserie Chicken Salad

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Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful dish made with shredded rotisserie chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy mayo-based dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens, it’s quick, versatile, and great for meal prep.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chill time)
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1. 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
2. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
3. 1 tsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
4. 2 celery stalks, finely diced
5. 1/4 cup red onion or green onion, finely chopped
6. 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
7. Salt and black pepper, to taste
8. Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup halved grapes, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 1/2 cup chopped apples, 1/4 cup toasted almonds, fresh dill or parsley

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Instructions

Remove skin and bones from rotisserie chicken, then shred or chop meat into bite-sized pieces.

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, onion, and any optional add-ins.
2. In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over chicken mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled on sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or over greens.

Notes

• Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor, but any cooked chicken works.
• Chill before serving for best flavor.
• Greek yogurt or mashed avocado can replace some or all of the mayo.
• Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives brighten the flavor.
• Best served cold—do not freeze.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg