If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying, this Summer Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful blend of tender rotisserie chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and a tangy, herby dressing that comes together in minutes. Perfect for warm days when you want a light yet hearty meal, this recipe bursts with contrasting textures and vibrant colors that make every bite a celebration of summer’s best tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and freshness in your Summer Chicken Salad Recipe. From juicy grapes adding sweetness to the crisp celery crunch and the bright zip from lemon and fresh dill, the combination is thoughtfully put together to satisfy your taste buds.
- Rotisserie chicken (500 grams): Using a pre-cooked chicken not only saves time but provides tender, juicy meat that’s already packed with flavor.
- Red seedless grapes (1 cup): Halved grapes bring a unique sweetness and juicy pop that contrast beautifully with the savory elements.
- Duke’s Light Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): This creamy base binds the salad together while keeping it light and smooth.
- Celery (3 stalks): Adds refreshing crunch and a slight earthiness to balance the sweet and creamy flavors.
- Lemon juice and zest (1/2 lemon): Bright citrus notes cut through the richness and give the salad a fresh, zesty lift.
- Green onion (1/4 cup): Offers a mild, oniony punch that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming it.
- Sweet relish (3 tbsp): Brings subtle sweetness and a hint of tang, complementing both the grapes and mustard.
- Coarse ground Dijon mustard (1 1/3 tbsp): Adds depth and a gentle kick to the dressing.
- Fresh dill (1 tbsp): A fragrant herb that ties the salad together with its citrusy, slightly grassy aroma.
- Lemon pepper dill seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses extra zest and a peppery bite, enhancing the natural lemon and dill flavors.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) and black pepper (1/4 tsp): Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors.
How to Make Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by removing all bones and skin from the rotisserie chicken and shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces. This forms the hearty base of your salad and ensures every forkful is tender and easy to enjoy. Place your shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl to get ready for the flavorful mix to come.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Next, toss in the halved grapes, chopped celery, green onions, and fresh dill to the bowl. These ingredients not only add vibrant color but create a fresh, crunchy, and aromatic experience that makes this Summer Chicken Salad Recipe so unique and enjoyable.
Step 3: Add the Dressing and Seasonings
Pour in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, and add the lemon juice and zest along with the lemon pepper dill seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients create a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing that perfectly envelops every ingredient, raising the salad to a new level of deliciousness.
Step 4: Gently Fold and Chill
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful to mix thoroughly but gently to preserve the texture of the chicken, grapes, and celery. For the best flavor, cover your salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes so the ingredients can meld into a harmonious, refreshing dish.
How to Serve Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of additional fresh dill or thin lemon slices makes a beautiful garnish, adding a burst of color and enhancing the aromatic qualities. You might also consider topping with toasted slivered almonds for extra crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
Side Dishes
This Summer Chicken Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, summery sides like crusty artisan bread, crisp cucumber slices, or even a bed of mixed greens. It’s also fantastic served alongside a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea for the ultimate relaxed meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or in crisp lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held option that makes it perfect for picnics or casual gatherings. You can also spoon it onto toasted crostini or stuff it inside pita pockets for a satisfying sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it a great make-ahead option for lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
Because of the fresh ingredients and mayonnaise, freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The texture of celery and grapes would become unpleasant after thawing, and the dressing may separate.
Reheating
This Summer Chicken Salad Recipe is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly warmer salad, allow it to sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving to maintain the freshness and texture.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken breasts work well as a substitute. Just make sure they are shredded or chopped finely to keep the texture consistent with the original recipe.
Is this salad dairy-free?
The recipe uses Duke’s Light Mayonnaise, which typically does not contain dairy. However, always check the label to be sure it fits your dietary needs.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used to reduce calories and add a tangy twist. Just be mindful that it will change the texture and flavor slightly, making it lighter and less creamy.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
Ideally, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you have more time, chilling it for up to a few hours really enhances the taste.
Can I add nuts or other fruits for variation?
Definitely! Toasted pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds add a lovely crunch. Other fruits like apples or dried cranberries can also bring new flavors and textures to this versatile Summer Chicken Salad Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderfully easy and tasty Summer Chicken Salad Recipe in your kitchen arsenal, I can’t wait for you to try it out! It’s perfect for sunny days and lazy lunches, offering vibrant flavors and textures that will quickly make it a favorite. So gather your ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy a bowl of sunshine on a plate.
Print
Summer Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing Summer Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, combining shredded rotisserie chicken with juicy red grapes, crisp celery, and a flavorful dressing of Duke’s Light Mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and sweet relish. Enhanced with zesty lemon, fresh dill, and a hint of lemon pepper seasoning, this easy no-cook salad is perfect for light lunches or picnics.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 small rotisserie chicken, bones and skin removed (500 grams)
Produce
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved (165 grams)
- 3 stalks celery, chopped (70 grams)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Condiments & Seasonings
- 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 tsp lemon pepper dill seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare 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.
- Add 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 Salad: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Mix thoroughly but carefully to maintain the texture of the chicken and other ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together for best taste.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled for a refreshing flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor, or substitute with cooked shredded chicken breast if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning like salt and lemon pepper dill seasoning according to taste.
- Grapes can be substituted with apple chunks for a different sweet note.
