Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy. The grilled chicken adds lean protein, while the pineapple gives the salad a tropical, refreshing flavor. The addition of crisp veggies and a creamy dressing elevates the texture, making each bite more enjoyable than the last. Plus, it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. This dish is a great way to switch up your typical salad routine while keeping things healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

• 1 cup pineapple, diced (fresh or canned)

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/4 cup celery, chopped

• 1/4 cup carrot, grated

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Mixed greens or lettuce for serving

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

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, celery, and grated carrot.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and toss until well coated.

4. Stir in chopped cilantro if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or lettuce, or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish.

6. Optional: Garnish with extra pineapple or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, use grilled chicken instead of cooked chicken breast.

• Add Nuts: Add toasted almonds or cashews for some extra crunch.

• Make it Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.

• Avocado: Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

• Swap Pineapple: If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute it with mango or a combination of tropical fruits.

• Vegetarian Option: Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so it doesn’t require reheating. If you have leftover chicken, you can warm it slightly before adding it to the salad if desired.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Yes, canned pineapple works great for this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess syrup.

Can I use a different protein besides chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.

How can I make this salad lighter?

For a lighter version, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and reduce the honey to cut down on sugar. You can also skip the dressing and use a squeeze of fresh lime juice for flavor.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers. Just combine the salad and dressing before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I add more veggies to this salad?

Definitely! You can add extra veggies like cucumbers, avocado, or mixed greens to enhance the flavor and texture.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

If you want a creamier dressing, add a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can also use a bit of sour cream or cream cheese for added richness.

Can I serve this salad as a wrap?

Yes, this salad works beautifully in a wrap. Simply use a whole wheat or lettuce wrap and fill it with the salad for a delicious, portable meal.

How do I make this salad spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing to bring a bit of heat to the salad.

What can I serve with this salad?

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, fruit, or even some whole-grain crackers for added crunch.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. It’s a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is a fantastic option. Easy to make, packed with nutrients, and full of tropical flavor, it’s the ideal dish for a warm day or whenever you want something deliciously different.