Classic Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe

Kristen Massad — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 18:53:50 +0000

Quick, fresh and full of flavor, this Classic Rotisserie Chicken Salad is the perfect go-to recipe for weekday lunches, summer picnics or easy entertaining. Made with store-bought rotisserie chicken, fresh apples, celery and sweet dried cranberries, this salad comes together in minutes and tastes even better the next day!

Why You Will Love This Chicken Salad

There is something so comforting and timeless about a classic chicken salad, something I grew up eating and now my kids love as well. It is creamy, crunchy, savory and a touch of sweet and the best part, it is super quick to make. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time but also adds the most delicious flavor that you can get with boiled chicken. Sandwich this Rotisserie Chicken Salad between a buttery croissant, whole grain bread or served over greens with your favorite crackers, this chicken salad is so versatile and absolutely delicious.

This recipe is classic and extra special because of the layers of flavor and textures. Shredded chicken, crunchy celery, juicy apples, slightly sweet dried cranberries and mayonnaise adds a creamy texture that pulls it all together.

Ingredient Notes

Rotisserie Chicken: The real hero of this recipe. One whole rotisserie chicken (about 3 cups of shredded chicken) will add flavor and save so much time!

Mayonnaise: Choose a high quality mayo for the best flavor….I love using Primal Kitchen Mayo.

Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor. Dice the celery fine so it blends in with the salad.

Apples: Juice red apples adds the perfect crunch, juicy textures and a touch of sweet to this savory salad. Dice the apples fine to match the size of the celery.

Dried Cranberries: Adding the perfect amount of sweet to your chicken salad. I also love to chopping the dried cranberries to blend into the salad better.

Salt + Pepper: Season to taste after mixing all the ingredients together.

Fresh Herbs: I love finishing this chicken salad recipe with a sprinkle of fresh dill but you can also add parsley or chives flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Shred the chicken: remove the skin and the bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat (using both white and dark meat) with a fork or your hands. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Combine: add the celery, apples, cranberries, mayo and mix until fully combined.

Season: Season with salt and pepper and fresh herbs to your liking.

Chill: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips to Make the Best Chicken Salad

Serving Ideas: Serve on a fresh croissant, sandwich bread, in a lettuce cup or with crackers or fresh cut veggies. Also delicious served in a pita pocket for a tortilla wrap.

Make Extra: You can do a single recipe or even a double. This recipe will be so loved and will be enjoyed so quickly. I love to always have chicken salad in my refrigerator for quick lunch, protein packed snack or last minute entertaining.

Make-Ahead: chicken salad is quick and easy but it is even better after chilling for a few hours or even the next day.

Do Not Freeze: Mayo based salads do not freeze well so just make it as your need it and enjoy within a few days.

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