Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Uses pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, cutting down prep time.
Flavorful & Versatile – A delicious balance of textures and flavors with crunchy veggies and creamy dressing.
Healthy Option – Packed with protein and can be customized to be lower in fat or carbs.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
Customizable – Easily adaptable with different mix-ins like nuts, fruits, or spices.

Ingredients

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

Rotisserie chicken, shredded
Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
Dijon mustard
Celery, diced
Red onion, finely chopped
Grapes or dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness)
Almonds or pecans, chopped (optional, for crunch)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Chicken – Remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Chop the Vegetables – Dice the celery, red onion, and any additional ingredients like grapes or nuts.
Make the Dressing – In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing. Stir everything together until well coated.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Chill & Serve – Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Low-Carb/Keto – Skip the grapes and use full-fat mayonnaise for a keto-friendly version.
Spicy Kick – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce for some heat.
Dairy-Free – Use only mayonnaise and skip the Greek yogurt.
Sweet & Savory – Include apples, dried cranberries, or honey for a hint of sweetness.
Crunchy Add-Ins – Swap almonds for walnuts, cashews, or sunflower seeds for different textures.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing may separate when thawed.
Serving Tip – If stored, give it a good stir before serving as the dressing may settle.

FAQs

How long does rotisserie chicken salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this chicken salad without mayo?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt, avocado, or a mix of olive oil and mustard instead.

What is the best way to serve rotisserie chicken salad?

It can be served on sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, crackers, or eaten straight from the bowl.

Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, but rotisserie chicken has more flavor and a better texture. If using canned chicken, drain it well.

How do I prevent the chicken salad from getting watery?

Avoid adding too many watery ingredients like cucumbers and mix the dressing separately before adding it.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.

What can I substitute for celery?

Try using chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or even jicama for a similar crunch.

How do I make this salad healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, add more veggies, and skip the nuts for a lower-calorie option.

Can I add eggs to my chicken salad?

Yes! Chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great protein-packed addition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients and serve it without bread or wraps.

Conclusion

Rotisserie chicken salad is a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, customizable, and great for meal prep. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or as a dip with crackers, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying, homemade meal in no time!