Name: Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box Chicken RICE-A-RONI; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (adjust to your liking); to taste Lemon Pepper (for seasoning); 1 cup chicken, shredded (use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken); 1 Large Mixing Bowl; 1 Measuring Cups; 1 Spoon or Spatula; 1 Knife

If you’re in search of a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, look no further than this Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad. This recipe combines the delightful flavors of tender chicken, savory Rice-a-Roni, and a creamy dressing that binds it all together. Served in Kings Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls or homemade rolls, this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to serve it as a filling lunch, a hearty side, or even a light dinner. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory flavors beautifully, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, and it comes together in no time at all!

What We’re Using

1 box Chicken RICE-A-RONI: This will be the star of our salad, providing flavor and texture.
1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Adjust to your liking for creaminess. We recommend about 1/2 cup.
Lemon Pepper: A sprinkle of this seasoning adds a zesty kick to the dish.
1 cup chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
Kings Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls or Homemade Rolls: These will hold all the deliciousness of our chicken salad.

What’s in the Gear List

Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing all your ingredients together.
Measuring Cups: To ensure you’re using the right quantities.
Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and combining the ingredients.
Knife: If you’re shredding your chicken or chopping any additional veggies or herbs.

Cooking Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Rice-a-Roni

Start by cooking the Chicken Rice-a-Roni according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves sautéing the rice in a bit of oil, adding water, and simmering until it’s tender. Once done, set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

If you haven’t done so already, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and a generous sprinkle of lemon pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your desired creaminess.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled Rice-a-Roni and shredded chicken to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the rice and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best results, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, spoon the chicken salad into the sweet rolls or onto a plate and enjoy!

Swap Guide

Chicken: Substitute with turkey or any cooked meat of your choice.
Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Lemon Pepper: Swap for a mix of lemon juice and black pepper if needed.
Rice-a-Roni: Try other flavors like Spanish or Fried Rice for a twist!

Chef’s Notes

Feel free to add chopped veggies like celery or bell pepper for extra crunch.
For a herbal note, consider adding fresh parsley or dill.
This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Adjust the amount of lemon pepper based on your taste preference; it can be quite zesty!

Storage Pro Tips

Store any leftover Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the flavors and textures fully. If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, consider storing the salad and rolls separately to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of Rice-a-Roni flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like Spanish or Fried Rice to change up the taste of your salad.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or beans for protein. You might also consider adding chickpeas for a hearty texture.

What can I serve with this chicken salad?

This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the mayonnaise can separate and the rice can become mushy once thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best results!

Save & Share

If you love this Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad, don’t forget to save the recipe and share it with your friends and family! It’s perfect for gatherings, and everyone will be asking for seconds. Snap a picture and tag us on social media to show off your delicious creation!

The magic of Rice-a-Roni Chicken Salad lies in its simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, preparing a family meal, or looking for a quick lunch, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy every bite of this delightful salad in sweet rolls or on its own, and let the flavors transport you to culinary bliss!