If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and effortless preparation, look no further than this Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad. It’s a delightful combination of tender, juicy shredded rotisserie chicken, crisp cabbage and kale, and that addictive crunch of golden wontons. The dressing is a harmonious blend of toasted sesame oil, zesty orange, and a touch of honey for sweetness, making every bite a perfect balance of savory and bright. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something fresh and fun, this salad hits all the right notes.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad stands out for its unique marriage of ingredients and textures. The crispy wontons add an irresistible crunch that elevates the fresh vegetables and tender chicken. The dressing, bursting with orange juice, zest, and a hint of turmeric, complements the savory notes beautifully while keeping the salad light and refreshing. Using rotisserie chicken simplifies meal prep without sacrificing flavor, making it a perfect healthy yet indulgent meal option. Plus, the use of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil and the kick from jalapeños add layers of complexity that keep your taste buds intrigued with every forkful.

Ingredients at a Glance

1/4 cup toasted sesame oil – for that nutty, aromatic base
2 tablespoons honey – natural sweetness to balance acidity
2 tablespoons orange or apricot jam – adds fruity depth
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice – bright citrus flavor
1 tablespoon orange zest – intense citrus aroma
3 tablespoons rice vinegar – mild acidity to enhance flavors
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger – fresh, slightly spicy warmth
1-2 cloves garlic, grated – pungent and savory
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric – subtle earthiness and color
2 tablespoons sesame seeds – for extra crunch and flavor
4 cups shredded cabbage and kale – crisp, nutritious greens
2 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken – tender protein
1 cup chopped cilantro or Thai basil – fresh herbaceous note
2 jalapeños, seeded if desired and chopped – adds a spicy kick
2 avocados, sliced – creamy richness
1/3 cup roasted salted cashews, chopped – buttery crunch
1/3 cup chopped green onions – sharp and fresh
2 cups crispy wontons (store-bought or homemade, see notes) – signature crunch

Essential Tools for Success

Mixing bowls – for combining the dressing and salad ingredients with ease.
Citrus juicer or reamer – to get fresh orange juice without seeds.
Microplane or fine grater – perfect for zesting oranges and grating ginger and garlic.
Sharp knife – for chopping herbs, jalapeños, and slicing avocados cleanly.
Salad spinner – to thoroughly dry the cabbage and kale for crispness.
Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy with ingredients.

The Method for Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, honey, orange or apricot jam, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, grated ginger, grated garlic, and ground turmeric until smooth and well combined. Stir in the sesame seeds last to keep their crunch.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables and Herbs

Shred the cabbage and kale finely and rinse them in cold water. Spin dry thoroughly in a salad spinner to ensure crispness. Chop the cilantro or Thai basil, jalapeños (remove seeds if you prefer less heat), and green onions. Slice the avocados just before assembling to prevent browning.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Use two forks or your hands to shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any skin if you prefer less fat or want to keep the salad lighter.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage and kale, shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped herbs, jalapeños, green onions, and roasted cashews.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly. The dressing’s vibrant flavors will meld with the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Step 6: Add Avocado and Wontons

Gently fold in the sliced avocados, being careful not to mash them. Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy wontons on top to preserve their crunch. If you want to make your own crispy wontons, simply cut wonton wrappers into strips or triangles and fry them quickly in hot oil until golden and crisp.

International Equivalents

Toasted sesame oil: Can be substituted with walnut or peanut oil for a different but equally nutty flavor.
Rice vinegar: Replace with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if unavailable.
Rotisserie chicken: If rotisserie chicken is not common, use cooked shredded chicken breast or thigh from any preferred preparation.
Wontons: Use fried tortilla strips or crispy pita chips if wontons are hard to find.

Steer Clear of These

Avoid using pre-packaged salad dressings as they can overpower the delicate balance of flavors in this recipe.
Don’t skip the fresh orange juice and zest; bottled juice lacks the brightness that makes this salad sing.
Refrain from adding too much jalapeño if you’re sensitive to spice; start with one and adjust as needed.
Do not add the crispy wontons too early; they will get soggy and lose their signature crunch.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh to preserve the crisp textures and vibrant flavors. However, you can freeze shredded cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and assemble the salad fresh. Avoid freezing the salad once combined, as the greens and avocados will not hold up well after thawing.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this salad vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the shredded rotisserie chicken with crispy baked tofu or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based protein option. Make sure to use a vegan-friendly jam and honey substitute like maple syrup in the dressing.

How do I keep the wontons crispy in the salad?

To maintain the wontons’ crispiness, add them right before serving. If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the wontons separate and sprinkle them on top just before eating.

Can I use other greens instead of cabbage and kale?

Yes, feel free to swap in other sturdy greens like romaine lettuce, spinach, or arugula. Keep in mind that softer greens may wilt quicker once dressed, so add the dressing just before serving.

Is there a way to reduce the spiciness if I don’t like heat?

Definitely. Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or reduce the amount used. Alternatively, substitute with mild green bell peppers for crunch without the heat.

Similar Recipes

Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli Farfalle – a comforting pasta dish with tender chicken and fresh vegetables.
Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken And Brussels With Pecans – a simple one-pan meal with tangy balsamic glaze and crunchy nuts.
Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Cutlets – a zesty, crispy chicken recipe perfect for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors that come together effortlessly to create a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The crunchy wontons, fresh herbs, creamy avocado, and sweet-tangy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time, making this salad a go-to for busy days when you want something healthy yet exciting. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or a colorful side at dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with the heat level and herbs to make it your own!

Enjoy the vibrant freshness and delightful crunch of this Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad – a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious.

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