As I took a bite of my Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad, the delightful crunch of the crispy wontons and the tender rotisserie chicken transported me right into springtime bliss. This no-cook recipe masterfully combines fresh herbs and vibrant veggies with a zesty turmeric-ginger dressing, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for busy weeknight dinners. If you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying, this salad is your go-to option! Perfect for picnics or summer gatherings, this dish can effortlessly transform any meal into a special occasion. Ready to explore the flavors and textures that await? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness abounds: The combination of crispy wontons and tender rotisserie chicken makes each bite a delightful adventure. No-cook convenience: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip up this dish in minutes! Healthy indulgence: With its nutrient-rich ingredients, this salad is as wholesome as it is delicious. Flavor explosion: The tangy turmeric-ginger dressing elevates the dish, offering a zesty sparkle to every mouthful. Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a casual dinner, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike. For more delicious inspiration, check out Chinese Honey Chicken or consider adding elements from our Chicken Satay Peanut recipe!

Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad Ingredients

Get ready to gather everything you need to create this colorful and crunchy delight!

For the Dressing

Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; can substitute with olive or vegetable oil.
Honey – Provides a touch of sweetness; consider using maple syrup for a vegan option.
Orange or Apricot Jam – Adds fruity sweetness; substitute with similar fruit preserves if needed.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice – Offers a zesty citrus brightness; lemon juice works as an alternative.
Orange Zest – Enhances flavor; can be omitted if not available.
Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity; use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as substitutes.
Fresh Grated Ginger – Adds warmth; ground ginger can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Garlic (clove, grated) – Imparts a lovely aroma; can be omitted for a milder taste.
Ground Turmeric – Gives an earthy flavor and vibrant color; omit if sensitive to its taste.
Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch; replace with sunflower seeds or omit for allergies.

For the Salad

Shredded Cabbage/Kale – Serves as the salad base; consider using romaine or spinach for variety.
Cooked Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Provides protein; opt for leftover turkey or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Chopped Cilantro/Thai Basil – Enhances the freshness; swap for parsley or mint based on preference.
Jalapeños – Adds a spicy kick; omit for a milder salad experience.
Avocados – Contributes creaminess; substitute with any preferred creamy element or omit for lower fat.
Roasted Salted Cashews – Brings in crunch; almonds or peanuts are perfect alternatives.
Chopped Green Onions – For garnish and added freshness; shallots can serve as a nice substitute.
Crispy Wontons – Adds delightful texture; choose store-bought or homemade, or use homemade egg roll wrappers.

Enjoy every step of putting together your Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad! It’s all about creating a dish that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavors and textures.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a glass jar, combine ¼ cup toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons orange or apricot jam, and ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice. Add the zest of half an orange, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 1 clove grated garlic, ½ teaspoon ground turmeric, and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds. Whisk together until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper before setting aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded cabbage or kale with 2 cups of cooked shredded rotisserie chicken, and ½ cup chopped cilantro or Thai basil. If you like a little heat, add 1 jalapeño, sliced. Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly, ensuring the greens and chicken are beautifully blended.

Step 3: Add Creamy and Crunchy Ingredients
Carefully fold in 1 diced avocado and ½ cup of roasted salted cashews to the salad. These additions bring a creamy texture and satisfying crunch to your Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and toss lightly once more, being cautious not to mash the avocado.

Step 4: Final Touches with Crispy Wontons
Just before serving, add 1 cup of crispy wonton strips on top for that delightful crunch. These can be store-bought or homemade for an extra touch. Toss gently to incorporate, but keep the wontons on top so they remain crispy, creating an eye-catching presentation.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added freshness. Serve the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad immediately so guests can enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth textures. This dish shines bright during warm weather gatherings!

What to Serve with Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant salad with delightful complementing dishes and drinks.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture balances the crispy wontons, providing a comforting contrast to the salad’s crunch. Perfect for soaking up extra dressing!
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: The smoky flavor of grilled vegetables adds a charred dimension to the meal, enhancing the fresh herbs of the salad beautifully. It’s a colorful addition that tempts the eyes and taste buds alike.
Thick Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, toasted garlic bread for a satisfying crunch. The buttery richness pairs wonderfully with the zesty notes from the salad dressing, making each bite a joy.
Fruity Iced Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened, iced tea with fruit infusions like peach or citrus will contrast excellently with the salad’s flavors, making it a perfect thirst-quencher.
Sesame Ginger Noodles: For a whimsical fusion, try serving sesame ginger noodles. Their savory flavors echo the dressing of the salad, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with rich chocolate mousse. The creamy dessert provides a luscious finish that contrasts perfectly with the salad’s vibrant crunch, ensuring diners leave happy!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Feel free to get creative with this salad and make it your own! The possibilities are endless, just waiting for you to explore.

Grilled Shrimp: Swap out rotisserie chicken for grilled shrimp for a delicious seafood twist that adds a hint of smokiness.
Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas in place of chicken. They’ll add protein and a satisfying texture; just toss them in with the veggies!
Diced Mango: Replace avocados with diced mango for a tropical flair. The sweetness of mango really elevates this salad’s flavor profile, bringing a bit of sunshine on your plate.
Different Vinegar: Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic. Each will give your dressing a unique twist and a new layer of flavor.
Spicy Sweet Chili: If you like a little kick, add a drizzle of spicy sweet chili sauce in addition to the dressing. It will bring a zingy heat with a hint of sweetness!
Quinoa Base: For a heartier salad, consider using quinoa instead of cabbage. This swap not only changes the texture but also adds a nutty taste and even more nutrition.
Fresh Herbs: Feel free to mix and match fresh herbs! Use parsley or mint in place of cilantro for a different aroma and flavor; each herb conjures new vibes for your salad.
Nuts Variety: Try substituting roasted salted cashews with slivered almonds or toasted pecans. They’ll add a different crunch and flavor nuance, creating unique bites with every forkful!

Delve into more culinary delights with recipes like easy Pho with Five Spice Chicken for even more flavors on your dinner table!

Expert Tips for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Seasoning Matters: Always season the dressing well with salt and pepper to enhance flavors; insufficient seasoning can dull the overall taste.
Crispy Wontons Last: Add crispy wontons just before serving to maintain their crunchiness; adding them too early makes them soggy.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor enhancement; store-bought pre-shredded vegetables can save time but may lack freshness.
Spice Control: Adjust the spiciness of jalapeños based on your heat tolerance; if you prefer milder flavors, remove the seeds completely.
Make Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance, but store the dressing separately; this keeps your Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad fresh and crisp when served.
Explore Variations: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or toppings, such as grilled shrimp or diced fruits, to make the recipe your own.

Storage Tips for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but keep the crispy wontons separate to maintain their crunch.
Dressing: The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed jar. Shake well before using to recombine any settled ingredients.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad once assembled, as the textures will change. However, you can freeze leftover rotisserie chicken for future use.
Reheating: If you’ve used warm chicken, reheat it gently in the microwave before tossing it back into the salad, but do not heat the entire salad.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad in advance is a great way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop and refrigerate the cabbage, herbs, and jalapeños up to 3 days ahead of time, keeping them fresh in an airtight container. The dressing can also be made and stored separately for up to 5 days, just remember to give it a good shake before use. To prevent the avocado from browning, you might consider slicing it right before serving. Lastly, add the crispy wontons just prior to serving to ensure they maintain their delightful crunch. With this prep strategy, you’ll enjoy a quick meal that’s just as delicious!

Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?
I highly recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. If you want to make it vegetarian, consider using leftover turkey or tofu as a great substitute. Just make sure that any chicken you use is properly cooked and shredded to mix well with the salad ingredients.

How long can I store the salad and dressing separately?
You can store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s vital to keep the crispy wontons stored separately to maintain their delightful crunch! The dressing alone can last in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed jar.

Can I freeze leftovers of this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad because the fresh ingredients will change texture once thawed. However, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just shred it before freezing and store it in an airtight container for future use.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a tablespoon of water or more fresh orange juice to loosen it up and whisk it again. This way, you’ll achieve the perfect pourable consistency that coats your salad beautifully!

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, some common allergens are present, such as sesame oil and cashews. If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute the cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. For gluten concerns, ensure that your crispy wontons are made from gluten-free ingredients.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a gathering?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for a make-ahead dish. You can mix all ingredients except the crispy wontons and dressing a few hours prior. Just make sure to store the dressing separately and drizzle it on right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.