Lemon Basil Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines tender rotisserie chicken with bright lemon zest and fragrant basil leaves. It’s a perfect mix of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a light, tangy dressing that makes every bite feel sunny and refreshing. The lemon adds just the right pop of flavor, while the basil gives it a lovely herbal twist.
I love making this salad when I want something quick but still packed with flavor and a bit fancy. Using rotisserie chicken saves so much time, and the lemon basil dressing brings everything to life without feeling heavy. Whenever I serve this, people always ask for the recipe because it’s simple but tastes like you spent hours making it.
My favorite way to enjoy this salad is wrapped in a soft tortilla or served over a bed of mixed greens for an easy lunch or light dinner. It’s also great for picnics or potlucks because it travels well and stays delicious. If you like bright, fresh flavors with a hint of herbiness, this salad is sure to become one of your go-to meals.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken makes this salad quick and easy. If you want, you can use cooked chicken breast or thighs instead. Leftovers work great too!
Lemon Zest & Juice: Fresh lemon gives a bright, tangy flavor that makes the salad refreshing. If lemons aren’t available, lime is a decent substitute but changes the flavor a bit.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a sweet, herbal note that complements the lemon. If you don’t have basil, try fresh parsley or cilantro for a different but tasty twist.
Greek Yogurt & Mayonnaise: These make the dressing creamy but light. You can swap mayonnaise for extra yogurt to cut down calories or use vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Celery & Garlic: Celery gives crunch and freshness while garlic adds a gentle kick. If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, reduce the amount or use garlic powder instead.
How Can I Make the Lemon Basil Dressing Creamy and Flavors Balanced?
The dressing is the heart of the salad and getting it right makes all the difference. Here’s how to create a creamy and well-balanced lemon basil dressing:
- Start by mixing mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for creaminess without heaviness.
- Add lemon zest before juice to infuse bright oils and natural flavors.
- Chop basil finely to spread its flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Minced garlic should be fresh for the best flavor, but use sparingly to keep it mild.
- Season with salt and pepper gradually—taste as you go for the perfect balance.
- Mix the dressing first, then gently fold in shredded chicken and celery to avoid breaking the pieces.
Taking these small steps helps create a refreshing lemon basil flavor that coats the chicken nicely without overpowering it. Keep the salad chilled before serving for the best texture and taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like a medium-sized one for stirring the dressing and mixing everything together.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping basil, celery, and slicing vegetables.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to measure lemon juice, zest, and other ingredients accurately.
- Spatula or large spoon – for mixing the salad and dressing evenly.
- Serving platter or bowls – to display and serve the salad beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Extra Proteins: Add cooked shrimp or crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh parsley or cilantro instead of basil for a different herbal flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and color.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give it a little kick.
Lemon Basil Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 slices of sandwich bread or toasted buns
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup fresh lettuce leaves (romaine or leaf lettuce)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick because you’re using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—no need to cook the chicken yourself! Most of your time will be mixing the creamy lemon basil dressing and assembling the salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Lemon Basil Dressing:
In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, minced garlic, and finely chopped celery. Stir everything until it’s smooth and well combined.
2. Combine Chicken and Dressing:
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the bowl. Gently stir until all the chicken is coated with the lemon basil dressing. Season with salt and fresh pepper to your taste.
3. Prepare the Bread and Veggies:
Toast the sandwich bread or buns if you like them warm and crispy. On each slice, lay down fresh spinach and lettuce leaves for a nice crunchy base.
4. Assemble the Salad Sandwich:
Spoon a generous amount of the lemon basil chicken salad onto the greens. Top with fresh tomato slices and rings of red onion for extra color and crunch.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Optionally, add some lemon slices on the side for a zesty garnish. Serve immediately as an open-faced sandwich or cover with another bread slice to make a full sandwich.
This bright, creamy salad pairs the fresh flavors of lemon and basil with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, making a deliciously easy meal you can enjoy any time. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead of Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed and cooked before shredding. Using leftover cooked chicken works perfectly as well.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again, and keep it chilled until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Substitute Basil With Another Herb?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley or cilantro make great alternatives if you don’t have basil on hand, though it will change the flavor slightly.
What’s the Best Bread to Use for This Salad?
Any sandwich bread or buns will work well. For extra texture, try toasting the bread or using a crusty roll to add a satisfying crunch.