This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a tasty and colorful dish that mixes juicy chicken, fresh pineapples, and crunchy veggies. It’s like a tropical vacation in a bowl!
Sometimes, I wish I lived on a beach just to enjoy this salad every day. It’s super easy to make, and I love serving it with some crispy tortilla chips on the side—perfect for a sunny day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken gives great flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Mixed Salad Greens: A combination of greens adds texture. If you can’t find specific types, just stick with whatever greens you like best—iceberg or kale work too!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness. Canned pineapple works well in a pinch, just make sure to drain it well. For a different flavor, try using diced mango or even oranges.
Teriyaki Sauce: This is a delicious dressing choice. You can swap it out for honey mustard, balsamic vinaigrette, or any dressing you prefer. Just adjust for sweetness or tanginess.
Sliced Almonds: These add crunch, but if you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great alternative!
How Do I Properly Toss a Salad Without It Getting Soggy?
Tossing salad is all about technique to keep it fresh and light. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by mixing the heavier ingredients like chicken and pineapple gently through the greens.
- Add the dressing gradually. Instead of dumping it all at once, drizzle a little, toss, then add more if needed.
- Use two large spoons or tongs, lifting the salad up from the bottom rather than stirring it around. This helps keep the greens crisp.
By doing this, you avoid crushing the greens and ensure everything is evenly coated! Enjoy your healthy Hawaiian Chicken Salad!
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (preferably grilled or roasted)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional for garnish)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (or your favorite dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to chill it for extra deliciousness, you can add another 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator. Perfect for a quick meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the mixed salad greens, sliced red cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced red onion. These will be your colorful and crunchy base for the salad.
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, pile the cooked and shredded chicken right on top of the salad mixture. This adds protein and makes the salad filling and delicious!
3. Incorporate Pineapple and Cilantro:
Gently fold in the diced pineapple and chopped cilantro. This step adds a nice burst of sweetness and freshness to the salad, making it truly Hawaiian!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now, it’s time to drizzle the teriyaki sauce over everything. Carefully toss the salad until all ingredients are well-coated with the flavorful dressing. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, plate the salad into individual bowls or a large serving dish. If you’d like, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an extra crunch—this step is optional but delicious!
6. Enjoy!
Dive in right away, or let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a refreshing meal or an exciting side!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use canned chicken for convenience! Just drain it well and shred it with a fork. Keep in mind that canned chicken can be a bit salty, so you may want to reduce the amount of salt you add to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute it with diced mango or chopped apples for a similar sweetness. Alternatively, for a tangy flavor, try using diced kiwi or mandarin oranges!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the greens may wilt, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time! Just keep the salad greens separate from the other ingredients and the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This will help keep everything crunchy and fresh!
