This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of chicken, pineapple, and crunchy veggies. It’s sweet, zesty, and perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic!
The best part? You can whip it up in no time! Just toss everything together, and voilà, you have a bright and cheerful salad that everyone will love. 🍍✨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is key for protein. Grilled or baked adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and brightness. You can use canned pineapple in juice if fresh isn’t available—just drain it first to avoid excess liquid.
Lettuce: Romaine is crunchy and holds up well, but you can also use spinach or mixed greens if you prefer something softer.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add a nice crunch. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds are a tasty substitute with added nutrition!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro complements the flavors beautifully, but if you’re not a fan, parsley works too, or you can simply leave it out.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Dressing?
The dressing in this salad is simple but makes all the difference! It combines creamy mayo with tangy vinegar and a hint of sweetness. To make it, just whisk together in a bowl:
- Mayonnaise: Use low-fat or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Rice vinegar: It’s slightly sweet; if you use apple cider vinegar, you might want to add a little extra honey to balance the flavor.
- Honey and soy sauce: These add sweetness and umami. Adjust the quantities based on your taste.
- Add fresh ginger if you like a bit of zing!
- Mix until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently for an even coating before serving! Enjoy your salad fresh for the best taste.
Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded (grilled or baked)
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad can be made in about 15-20 minutes! Just gather your ingredients, chop, mix, and you’re ready to enjoy a fresh and healthy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, start by combining the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and finely chopped red onion. These veggies add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your salad!
2. Add Chicken and Pineapple:
Next, toss in the cooked chicken slices or shredded chicken and the fresh pineapple chunks into the salad bowl. The pineapple will bring a sweet and juicy flavor to the mix!
3. Finish with Crunch and Herbs:
Sprinkle the sliced almonds and fresh cilantro leaves on top of the salad. The almonds will add a wonderful crunch, while the cilantro gives a fresh aroma and flavor.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger (if you’re using it). Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
Enjoy this refreshing and easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred or slice the chicken and toss it in the salad!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may get a bit soggy over time, so consider saving the dressing separately to add before eating!
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you’re looking for a substitute for pineapple, diced mango, or even mandarin oranges work well to add a sweet touch. You can also skip the fruit altogether if you prefer a less sweet salad!
