Name: Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Toasted Sesame Oil; 2 tablespoons Honey; 2 tablespoons Orange or Apricot Jam; 1/3 cup Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice; 1 tablespoon Orange Zest; 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar; 2 teaspoons Freshly Grated Ginger; 1-2 cloves Garlic; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Turmeric; 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds; 4 cups Shredded Cabbage/Kale; 2 cups Cooked Shredded Rotisserie Chicken; 1 cup Chopped Cilantro/Thai Basil; 2 Jalapeños (seeded if desired and chopped); 2 Avocados (sliced); 1/3 cup Roasted Salted Cashews (chopped); 1/3 cup Chopped Green Onions; 2 cups Crispy Wontons ((store bought or see notes for directions))

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When I think of a dish that perfectly balances texture and flavor, the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad comes to mind. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Picture a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around the table, laughter filling the air, and this delightful salad gracing the center. The crunch of the crispy wontons, the savoriness of the rotisserie chicken, and the zesty dressing all meld together beautifully, inviting everyone to dig in. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, making it a favorite in my home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why This Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad Is So Good

Flavor Explosion

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad. Each bite offers a unique taste and texture experience that elevates it above your typical salad. The sweetness of the honey and jam, combined with the tang of orange juice and vinegar, creates a dressing that dances on your palate.

Versatility

This salad is incredibly versatile. It can effortlessly transition from a light lunch to a hearty dinner. You can serve it as a main dish or as a side, making it suitable for various occasions. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, ensuring none of your ingredients go to waste.

Visual Appeal

The vibrant colors of the ingredients make the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad a feast for the eyes. Bright green cabbage, colorful herbs, and the crispy golden wontons create a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests. It’s the kind of salad that looks as good as it tastes!

Healthy Choices

Incorporating fresh vegetables and herbs not only boosts the flavor but also adds nutritional value. You’ll be getting a good dose of vitamins and minerals from the greens, while the healthy fats from the avocado and cashews provide satiety without compromising taste.

Easy to Make

One of my favorite aspects of the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this salad is accessible to all!

Perfect for Gatherings

This salad is perfect for gatherings or potlucks. It’s light yet filling, offering something for everyone. Plus, the crispy wontons give it a fun twist that guests will love, making it a talking point at any meal.

What to Gather for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

When it comes to crafting the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad, the ingredients are the stars of the show. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The combination of fresh vegetables, zesty dressings, and crispy elements ensures that every bite is a delight.

Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the salad’s overall profile.
Honey: Provides a touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the other ingredients.
Orange or Apricot Jam: This fruity element brings a delightful sweetness to the dressing.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Brightens up the dressing with its fresh citrus flavor.
Orange Zest: Adds a burst of aroma and enhances the orange flavor in the dressing.
Rice Vinegar: Contributes a tangy note that complements the sweetness of the honey.
Grated Ginger: Infuses a warm, zesty flavor into the dressing.
Garlic: Offers a savory depth that enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Ground Turmeric: Not only adds color but also brings anti-inflammatory properties to the dish.
Sesame Seeds: These little seeds add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
Shredded Cabbage/Kale: Provides a crunchy base for the salad, loaded with nutrients.
Cooked Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Adds protein and makes the salad hearty and satisfying.
Chopped Cilantro/Thai Basil: Fresh herbs brighten the flavor and add complexity.
Jalapeños: Offers a kick of heat that can be adjusted according to your preference.
Avocados: Creamy and rich, avocados add healthy fats and a smooth texture.
Roasted Salted Cashews: These provide crunch and a satisfying salty element.
Chopped Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.
Crispy Wontons: The ultimate topping that brings crunch and fun to the salad.

Making Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Creating the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a journey of combining textures and flavors in a way that excites your taste buds. Let’s take this step-by-step so you can experience the joy of making this salad.

To make the dressing, combine all the ingredients: the toasted sesame oil, honey, orange or apricot jam, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, ground turmeric, and sesame seeds in a glass jar. Whisk to combine, ensuring the mixture is well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste, which will elevate the flavors even further.
Next, in a large salad bowl, combine the shredded cabbage/kale, cooked shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped cilantro/Thai basil, and jalapeños. This vibrant mix of ingredients forms the base of your salad, so give it a gentle toss to distribute everything evenly.
Pour over half of the dressing you prepared in the first step. Toss the salad to coat the greens thoroughly with the dressing. This ensures every bite is flavorful and packed with taste.
Now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Gently fold in the avocados, roasted salted cashews, and chopped green onions. This is where the salad really comes alive with texture and flavor.
Finally, add the crispy wontons. These will give the salad a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the avocado and the tenderness of the chicken. Pour over the remaining dressing and give everything a final toss to combine.
Your Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is now ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately to maintain the crispiness of the wontons, and watch as everyone digs in.

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables and herbs significantly affects the flavor and texture of your salad. Always choose the freshest options available.
Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. More honey for sweetness or extra vinegar for tang can make a big difference.
Serving Temperature: This salad is best served fresh. If preparing ahead of time, store the dressing separately to avoid soggy ingredients.
Wonton Preparation: For extra crunch, consider making your own wontons from scratch. It’s a fun process that allows you to control the thickness and flavor.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the components of this salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing and the crispy elements separate until you’re ready to serve.

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to make the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad your own! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your preferences.

Mix Up the Greens: Instead of just using cabbage, you can add mixed greens, spinach, or arugula for varied textures and flavors.
Protein Variations: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp or tofu can be delicious alternatives that still keep the dish hearty.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or even some chopped chipotle for a smoky flavor boost.
Nut Choices: Swap out the cashews for peanuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch or flavor.
Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers in the summer or roasted butternut squash in the fall to keep things fresh.
Dressing Alternatives: Experiment with different dressings such as a creamy tahini dressing or a spicy vinaigrette for a new twist on flavor.
Garnishing: Add fresh herbs like mint or dill for an extra pop of freshness that enhances the flavor profile.

Serving This Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad, there are plenty of delicious options to consider!

Ideal Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with a light, chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink that complements the flavors.
Occasions: It’s perfect for summer picnics, casual lunches, or potluck gatherings. The vibrant colors and textures make it a great showstopper.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container without the crispy wontons. This way, you can maintain their crunch when you’re ready to enjoy the salad again.
Seasonal Delight: In the summer, serve this salad alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete meal. In the winter, it can be a hearty dish on its own.
Lunch Idea: Serve it as a packed lunch for work or school. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh.
Make It a Wrap: For a fun twist, use the salad as a filling for whole-grain wraps. This makes for a portable meal that’s easy to enjoy on the go!
Garnishing: Consider garnishing with additional cilantro or sesame seeds right before serving for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make the dressing for the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good shake or stir to recombine before drizzling it over the salad.

To store leftovers of the Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad, keep the salad and crispy wontons separate. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The wontons can be stored in a separate bag or container. This will help keep them crispy. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, simply toss them together again.

Definitely! While rotisserie chicken is a great choice, you can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The key is to ensure the protein complements the other flavors in the salad, so feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand.

The Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You could serve it with a light soup or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Alternatively, it makes a fantastic side dish for barbecues or picnics, adding a refreshing touch to hearty dishes.

Conclusion

The Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is truly a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and see how easy it is to whip together a fresh, satisfying salad. Whether it’s for a light lunch or a gathering with friends, this salad is sure to impress!