If you are looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and satisfying dish that truly celebrates warm-weather flavors, this Summer Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender rotisserie chicken with crisp celery, juicy grapes, and a zesty lemon-dill dressing, this salad bursts with bright colors and delightful textures. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or an easy dinner, it’s a heartfelt favorite that comes together quickly yet tastes like you’ve gone the extra mile. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to for all your sunny day meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Summer Chicken Salad Recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component adds unique flavors, textures, and freshness that make this salad stand out in the best way.
- Rotisserie chicken (500 grams): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and adds a savory depth with its smoky flavor.
- Red seedless grapes (1 cup): Halved for juicy bursts of sweetness that complement the savory elements.
- Duke’s Light Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): A creamy base that binds the salad while keeping it light and not overpowering.
- Celery stalks (3, chopped): Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch essential to balance the creaminess.
- Lemon juice and zest (1/2 lemon): Brings bright acidity and a fresh citrus punch that lifts the entire dish.
- Green onion (1/4 cup, chopped): Provides mild sharpness and subtle onion flavor without being too strong.
- Sweet relish (3 tbsp): Adds a touch of sweetness and tang that enhances the dressing.
- Dijon mustard (1 1/3 tbsp, coarsely ground): Offers a gentle heat and complexity to the dressing.
- Fresh dill (1 tbsp, chopped): Infuses the salad with its bright, herbaceous notes.
- Lemon pepper dill seasoning (1 tsp): A flavorful blend that ties the salad together with an extra layer of seasoning.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Elevates all the flavors to their fullest potential.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle kick and warmth without overpowering the palate.
How to Make Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Begin by removing all the skin and bones from your rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for every mouthwatering forkful. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl, which will be the base for your salad.
Step 2: Combine all ingredients
Next, add the halved grapes, chopped celery, green onions, and fresh dill to the bowl with the chicken. Pour in the mayonnaise, coarse-ground Dijon mustard, and sweet relish. Finish by adding the lemon juice and zest, lemon pepper dill seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This combination promises a delightful harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.
Step 3: Mix thoroughly
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together. The goal here is to coat every shred of chicken and morsel of produce with the luscious dressing while preserving the vibrant textures. A careful toss ensures the salad stays light and inviting.
Step 4: Chill before serving
To bring the flavors into perfect balance, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the ingredients to meld delightfully, making the salad even more flavorful and refreshing when served.
How to Serve Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra fresh dill or green onion on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma. You might also scatter some toasted almonds or walnuts for an unexpected crunch that works beautifully with the creamy texture.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides like crusty bread, pita chips, or a crisp green lettuce bed. It’s also excellent alongside fresh fruit or a simple rice pilaf to round out your meal with contrasting textures.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve the Summer Chicken Salad Recipe inside hollowed-out avocado halves or crisp cucumber boats for an elegant, fun presentation. Alternatively, scoop it into buttery croissants or atop mixed greens to turn it into a delightful summer sandwich or salad experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Summer Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled rather than frozen, as mayonnaise and fresh produce don’t retain their textures well after freezing. For best results, avoid freezing and prepare fresh batches as needed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge or let it sit out at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer it less chilled. Always give it a gentle stir before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts if you prefer. Just poach or bake them until cooked through, then cool before shredding and combining with the other ingredients.
Is there a substitute for Duke’s Light Mayonnaise?
Sure! You can use any mayonnaise you like or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile and creaminess might change slightly.
How long can I keep this chicken salad in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this Summer Chicken Salad Recipe stays delicious for about three days. Beyond that, the texture and freshness may start to decline.
Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?
Definitely! Adding toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds enhances the crunch and adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the creaminess and fruitiness of the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it makes an excellent meal prep option. Preparing it in advance lets the flavors meld perfectly, and portioning it into containers makes for quick, ready-to-eat meals throughout your busy week.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Chicken Salad Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. It’s quick, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavors that celebrate the very best of summer. Whether you’re packing lunch, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself, I encourage you to whip this up and enjoy every bite of its irresistible charm.
Print
Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Summer Chicken Salad Recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather meals. Combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken with crisp celery, sweet grapes, fresh herbs, and a tangy, creamy dressing, this salad offers a refreshing balance of textures and tastes. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal option for a light lunch or picnic side that can be prepared ahead and chilled to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 small rotisserie chicken, bones and skin removed (500 grams)
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved (165 grams)
- 3 stalks celery, chopped (70 grams)
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Duke’s Light Mayonnaise (120 grams)
- 3 tbsp sweet relish (45 grams)
- 1 1/3 tbsp coarse ground Dijon mustard (20 grams)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp lemon pepper dill seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Remove all bones and skin from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
- Combine all ingredients: Add the halved grapes, chopped celery, green onions, and fresh dill to the bowl with the chicken. Pour in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet relish. Add the lemon juice and zest, lemon pepper dill seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful to maintain the texture of the chicken and other ingredients while mixing.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use a rotisserie chicken for convenience and optimal flavor, but you can substitute with cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially the lemon pepper dill seasoning, to suit your preference.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for varied meal options.
