When you’re looking for a quick and nutritious meal, rotisserie chicken salad is a fantastic option. This dish not only boasts high protein content—about 29-30 grams per serving—but also helps you achieve a nutritional balance. High in Protein is a significant benefit of using rotisserie chicken, as it ensures you’re getting a substantial amount of this essential nutrient.
Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken makes meal prepping a breeze, allowing you to whip it up in just 10 minutes. You can customize it with seasonal ingredients like red grapes and toasted pecans for added flavor and crunch.
The creamy base from Greek yogurt offers healthy fats, while the combination of sweet and savory elements keeps your taste buds satisfied. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this salad fits various occasions and dietary preferences effortlessly.
What ingredients do you need?
To create a delicious rotisserie chicken salad, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that combine texture and flavor.
Here’s a quick list to get you started:
- Chicken: Use 2-4 cups of cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for that savory base.
- Fruits and Nuts: Add ½ to 1 ½ cups of halved red grapes and ½ to 1 cup of chopped pecans for sweetness and crunch.
- Dairy and Condiments: Incorporate 2/3 cup mayonnaise, or consider alternatives like Greek yogurt or sour cream. This salad is especially great for meal prep as it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Feel free to explore ingredient variations, such as adding toasted almonds or mixed greens for a fresh twist.
Step by Step Instructions
Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious rotisserie chicken salad. Start by preparing the key components:
- Shred or cube the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the red grapes for that perfect grape pairing.
- Chop the celery and thinly slice the green onions if you like.
Next, combine the chicken, grapes, celery, and green onions in a large bowl. Toss in the toasted pecans, and mix in yogurt or mayonnaise until everything’s coated. It’s recommended to prepare the salad ahead of time for optimal flavor blending, as this allows the ingredients to marry beautifully.
Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir well to guarantee every bite is flavorful.
Cooking Tips
For a standout rotisserie chicken salad, paying attention to ingredient selection and preparation is key. Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, and opt for sweet red grapes and crunchy pecans.
Toast the pecans at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes until fragrant; this enhances their flavor. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice and Dijon mustard for extra brightness and depth.
Remember to balance your seasonings with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder. Keep textures chunky by carefully combining the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delicious rotisserie chicken salad, there are countless options to elevate your meal. You can serve it on sandwich bread with fresh lettuce and tomato or use it as a filling in wraps or toasted gluten-free bread.
For a more indulgent treat, try it in a buttery croissant. If you’re looking for lighter serving styles, spoon the salad into bibb lettuce leaves or over a bed of mixed greens.
You might also enjoy it as a snack, scooping it up with crackers or stuffed inside halved avocados. Don’t forget creative pairings, like serving it in colorful bell peppers or mason jars for a portable option.
Storing
After enjoying your rotisserie chicken salad, proper storage guarantees you can savor those delicious flavors later.
To keep it fresh, use airtight containers and refrigerate it for up to three days, though some recipes may last up to a week. Confirm your fridge maintains a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C).
If you want to prep ahead, consider freezing cooked chicken for up to three months before making the salad, using airtight containers or freezer bags. Just remember, freezing the entire salad isn’t recommended, as it can get mushy.
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before storing, and keep toasted pecans separate to prevent sogginess. Always label and date your containers for easy identification.
Health Benefits
Rotisserie chicken salad isn’t just a tasty meal; it also packs a punch in health benefits. With high protein from rotisserie chicken, it supports muscle growth and helps you feel full, aiding in weight management.
The combination of pecans and healthy fats from avocado oil mayonnaise contributes to heart health and reduces inflammation. You’ll also enjoy the fiber from grapes, celery, and green onions, which enhances digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
Packed with antioxidants, this salad protects against chronic diseases while providing essential vitamins like C, K, and E. Each bite delivers significant nutritional value, making this salad a delicious choice for your overall health and wellbeing.
What to serve with it
For a well-rounded meal, consider what to serve alongside your chicken salad. Some great side dish pairings include crunchy chips, fresh raw veggies like celery and cucumbers, or tangy dill pickle spears.
A simple side salad or a spoonful of chicken salad atop greens can elevate your meal. If you prefer something heartier, baked beans complement the flavors perfectly.
For those who love sandwiches, soft white bread, flaky croissants, or even Hawaiian sweet rolls work wonderfully.
Don’t forget the ideal beverages! A crisp white wine or a revitalizing iced tea can enhance your dining experience, making your chicken salad meal satisfying and delightful.
Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combinations!
