Name: Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes: Quick & Refreshing Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 53 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (Use leftover chicken); 1 cup Grapes (Halved or quartered); 1 cup Celery (Diced into small pieces); 1/2 cup Slivered Almonds (Toasted until fragrant); 1/4 cup Toasted Coconut Flakes; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Sour Cream (Adjust to taste); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 4 leaves Lettuce Leaves (For serving)

While rummaging through my fridge one busy afternoon, I stumbled upon a leftover rotisserie chicken begging for a transformation. That’s when I decided to whip up this Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes—a dish that has quickly become a go-to in our household. The harmony of juicy chicken, sweet grapes, and crunchy toasted almonds creates a satisfying balance that’s perfect for quick meals. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a high-protein, nutritious delight, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a picnic feast! With its creamy mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, this salad has a cozy feel while still being adaptable enough to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Ready to take your leftover chicken from mundane to magnificent? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Chicken Salad So Special?

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with high-protein rotisserie chicken and crunchy almonds, it’s a filling meal you can feel good about.

Refreshing Flavors: The sweetness of grapes perfectly balances the savory chicken, creating a delightful taste sensation.

Versatile: Customize with your favorite ingredients like fresh dill or more nuts, or serve it in sandwiches or wraps for a fun twist.

Leftover Magic: Turn yesterday’s roast chicken into something spectacular, reducing food waste and saving time.

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out this fantastic recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole to keep the family happy!

Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes Ingredients

For the Salad

Rotisserie Chicken – Provides protein and flavor; leftover chicken works wonderfully in this rotisserie chicken salad with grapes.
Grapes – Add natural sweetness and antioxidants; you can halved or quartered them based on your preference.
Celery – Offers a crunchy texture and hydration; dice into small pieces for even distribution.
Toasted Almonds – Enhance crunchiness and nutty flavor; slivered almonds are preferred but whole can be used if chopped. Toast until fragrant.
Toasted Coconut Flakes – Introduce sweetness and additional texture; can be substituted with grated coconut.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base essential for moisture and richness.
Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and enhances the dressing; adjust according to your taste preference.
Salt & Pepper – Elevate the salad’s overall flavor; season to taste, ensuring a balanced taste!

For Serving

Lettuce Leaves – Serve as a fresh, crispy bed for the salad, adding low calories and crunch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by shredding your leftover rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re manageable for salad. This process should take about 2–3 minutes. Use your hands or two forks to make quick work of it. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl to prepare for the delightful mix ahead.

Step 2: Toast Nuts & Coconut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread slivered almonds and coconut flakes on a baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on the coconut, as it toasts quickly and can burn. Once browned, remove from the oven and let them cool for a moment.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In the bowl with the shredded rotisserie chicken, add the halved grapes, diced celery, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or large spoon to stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated. This delightful blend of flavors forms the heart of your Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes.

Step 4: Serve
To serve this refreshing salad, lay a bed of torn lettuce leaves on a platter or individual plates. Spoon the chicken salad mixture generously on top of the greens. Drizzle any extra dressing you have over the salad for an added touch and visually appealing presentation.

Step 5: Customize
Feel free to personalize your Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes to suit your taste! Adjust the sweetness by adding more grapes or mixing in a splash of lemon juice for tang. Consider incorporating herbs like fresh dill, or additional crunchy elements if you have them on hand, such as chopped nuts or extra veggies.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components—shredded rotisserie chicken, diced celery, and even the toasted almonds—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store these ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. The dressing can also be mixed ahead of time and kept refrigerated. When it’s time to serve, just toss everything together with the grapes and lettuce leaves, and enjoy the convenience of a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort. This way, you can savor a delightful, hearty dish on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes

Perfect Toasting: Keep a close eye when toasting almonds and coconut. Both can burn quickly; remove from heat once golden brown for the best flavor.
Chill for Flavor: For a more delicious salad, prepare it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Seasoning Balance: Don’t forget to taste as you mix! Adjust salt and pepper to maintain a well-rounded flavor in your rotisserie chicken salad with grapes.
Storage Smarts: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Ensure no excess moisture is present to retain freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or try different nuts for a unique twist!

What to Serve with Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes

Looking to elevate your meal with delicious accompaniments that perfectly compliment this creamy, crunchy salad?

Crusty Artisan Bread: A slice of freshly baked bread adds a hearty texture, perfect for scooping up salad goodness.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned with herbs and spices, these golden wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside your salad.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits enhances the sweetness of the grapes, making for a refreshing balance.
Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a delightful contrast to the creamy salad, adding a bite that’s irresistible.
Quinoa Salad: This healthy side is packed with protein and can be mixed with citrus or nuts for a flavorful pairing.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully and enhances your dining experience.
Savory Pita Chips: Serve these crunchy chips to scoop the salad or enjoy as an addictive on-the-side snack.
Simple Green Salad: A light mix of lettuce, cucumber, and vinaigrette keeps things fresh, enhancing the wholesome qualities of your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect texture.
Freezer: Freezing is possible, but be aware the salad’s texture may change upon thawing. If opting to freeze, use an airtight container and consume within 1 month.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen rotisserie chicken salad with grapes to the fridge to thaw overnight for the best flavor retention.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold; however, if you prefer warm chicken, gently reheat it in a microwave on low power before mixing it back with the other ingredients.

Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes Variations

Feel free to make this delightful salad your own with creative adjustments and substitutions!

Nutty Twist: Substitute almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor that adds a unique crunch.
Herbaceous Kick: Incorporate fresh dill or parsley to brighten the flavors, adding a fragrant touch that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Extra Veggies: Throw in chopped carrots or red bell pepper for a crunchy texture and a pop of color. It’ll give your salad a fresh, vibrant look.
Citrusy Zing: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for an extra tang that lifts the overall flavor, making each bite refreshingly bright.
Yogurt Alternative: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version that offers creaminess without the heaviness.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with substituting grapes for dried cranberries or apples for a twist of sweetness and chewiness that will surprise your taste buds.
Spicy Flair: For those who crave heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the excitement of flavors.
Wrap It Up: Use the salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, adding fresh greens or slices of avocado to enhance taste and texture!

And if you want to explore more chicken recipes, consider trying Bang Bang Chicken or the comforting Butter Chicken Cozy for variety!

Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! For the best rotisserie chicken salad with grapes, look for a chicken that has firm, moist meat and a golden-brown skin. If you notice dark spots all over or a dry appearance, it might not be as fresh. Ideally, check the sell-by date or ask for a freshly cooked one at the store for the best flavor.

How should I store leftovers from the chicken salad?
Very good question! Store your rotisserie chicken salad with grapes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture build-up, which can alter the flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a good stir as ingredients may settle.

Can I freeze leftover chicken salad?
You can indeed freeze! If you choose to freeze your rotisserie chicken salad, place it in an airtight container and consume it within a month for the best quality. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so it’s generally best enjoyed fresh.

What if my salad is too dry?
Don’t worry! If your rotisserie chicken salad with grapes turns out too dry, simply mix in a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream to achieve your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon, mixing it in thoroughly before adding more, until the salad is creamy enough to your liking. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for both moisture and a refreshing zing.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! This salad can be easily adapted to meet various dietary needs. If anyone is allergic to nuts, simply omit the toasted almonds and replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch. For gluten-free options, serve it on lettuce leaves or in gluten-free wraps. Additionally, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream will make it a bit healthier without sacrificing creaminess.

How can I make the salad more flavorful?
Great question! To elevate the flavor of your rotisserie chicken salad with grapes, I often prepare it a bit in advance. Allowing it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets the ingredients mingle together. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or add a few dashes of your favorite seasoning blend to enhance the overall taste!