Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender rotisserie chicken, crunchy cabbage, and creamy avocado provides a satisfying and well-rounded base. The crispy wontons add an irresistible crunch, while the turmeric ginger dressing brings a unique, aromatic touch. With fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil, along with a hint of heat from the jalapeños, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with vibrant colors. The easy-to-make dressing and the use of rotisserie chicken make this dish quick, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Turmeric Ginger Dressing:

• 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, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

For the Salad:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage or kale
• 2 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup chopped cilantro or 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)

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, honey, orange or apricot jam, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, grated ginger, grated garlic, ground turmeric, and sesame seeds. Whisk until fully combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage or kale, shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped cilantro or Thai basil, chopped jalapeños, sliced avocados, roasted salted cashews, and chopped green onions. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the turmeric ginger dressing over the salad, tossing to ensure that everything is evenly coated.
4. Top with Wontons: Just before serving, add the crispy wontons to the salad for an added crunch. Toss lightly to mix, or leave them on top for a more dramatic presentation.
5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful salad!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Greens: You can use any greens of your choice like spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce instead of cabbage or kale for a different flavor base.
• Nuts: Substitute cashews with peanuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor.
• Herbs: If you prefer a different herbal note, swap cilantro with mint or parsley, or use basil for a more fragrant touch.
• Protein: For a meat-free version, try adding crispy tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day. The crispy wontons should be kept in a separate container to maintain their crunch.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken if necessary before adding it to the salad. It’s best to serve the salad chilled or at room temperature to preserve the freshness of the ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the crispy wontons and dressing just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

2. Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can substitute rotisserie chicken with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

3. How can I make this salad spicier?

You can add more chopped jalapeños, or even try a spicy sriracha drizzle or a dash of chili flakes in the dressing for extra heat.

4. Can I use a different vinegar for the dressing?

If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but rice vinegar gives the dressing a more delicate flavor.

5. How do I make homemade crispy wontons?

To make your own crispy wontons, cut wonton wrappers into strips, fry them in oil until golden and crispy, and drain on a paper towel. Season with a pinch of salt.

6. Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Yes, you can swap out cashews for almonds, peanuts, or even sunflower seeds depending on your preference.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free if you use gluten-free wonton wrappers or store-bought gluten-free wontons.

8. Can I use frozen shredded cabbage or kale?

Yes, frozen shredded cabbage or kale can work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before using it in the salad.

9. Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, the turmeric ginger dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

10. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last for about 1 day, but the crispy wontons will lose their crunch. It’s best to store them separately and add them just before serving.

Conclusion

The Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a perfect combination of fresh, crisp ingredients and bold flavors. The turmeric ginger dressing adds a zesty, aromatic twist that ties the salad together, while the crunchy wontons, creamy avocado, and tender rotisserie chicken offer a delightful balance of textures. This salad is quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, making it a great choice for any meal, whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite!

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