This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a perfect mix of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing. It’s colorful and super tasty, making it a great lunch option!
I love to eat this salad on warm days. It’s like a vacation in a bowl! 🏖️ You can serve it on a bed of greens or in a juicy Hawaiian roll—it’s so good either way!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use grilled, rotisserie, or even leftover chicken. If you’re short on time, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is always a great choice!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness, but you can use canned pineapple chunks if fresh isn’t available. Just drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but feel free to substitute with mixed greens or spinach for a different texture.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both work well to keep the salad creamy!
Sliced Almonds: If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent substitutes that keep the salad crunchy.
How Do You Make the Salad Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating a delicious dressing is key to making this salad shine. Here’s how to nail it:
- In a small bowl, start with mayonnaise as the base, which gives a creamy texture.
- Whisk in honey for sweetness—it balances the tangy mayo wonderfully.
- Add apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar to brighten the flavors. If you love a bit of zing, add more vinegar to taste.
- Season with salt and pepper. Remember, a little goes a long way—balance is the key!
Mix until smooth and consistent, then pour over your salad. Enjoy the great flavor that comes from your homemade dressing!
Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or chopped (grilled or pan-seared)
- 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 diced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to chill it for a more enhanced flavor, plan on an additional 15-20 minutes in the fridge. Total time: around 30-35 minutes, if you include chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded purple cabbage, shredded carrots, diced red onion, fresh pineapple chunks, and sliced almonds. This colorful mix will make your salad not only tasty but visually appealing!
2. Add the Chicken and Herbs:
Next, add the cooked chicken pieces right on top of the vegetable mix. If you love cilantro, sprinkle the fresh cilantro leaves over the top for an extra burst of flavor. It adds a nice herbal note!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and vinegar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing is the secret to making the salad creamy and flavorful. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking!
4. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the ingredients together until everything is well coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the ingredients—just a gentle mix will do!
5. Serve or Chill:
Your salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it right away as a refreshing meal or place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. It’s up to you!
6. Enjoy with a Twist:
For a more filling meal, serve the salad on a bed of greens or pile it into fluffy Hawaiian rolls. This adds a lovely twist and makes it even more delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just make sure it’s chopped or shredded for easy mixing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the salad may become soggy over time due to the dressing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
You can customize this salad with additional ingredients like diced avocado, cucumbers, or even mandarin oranges for extra sweetness. Feel free to make it your own!
Is There a Healthy Alternative to Mayonnaise?
Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It will still provide creaminess and add a nice tang to the dressing!
