This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing. It’s light and refreshing, perfect for a sunny day!
I love serving it on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich. It’s like a mini vacation in every bite! 🌴 Plus, it’s super simple to whip up—great for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes this salad easy to prepare. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut—just shred it and toss it in!
Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and a tropical vibe. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple works, but rinse it first to reduce excess syrup sweetness.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine is crunchy and refreshing, but you can substitute with spinach or mixed greens if you prefer something a bit softer or want a different flavor.
Almonds: Sliced almonds bring a nice crunch, but feel free to use walnuts or pecans for a richer taste. You could also skip nuts entirely if you’re avoiding them for allergies.
How Do You Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken right can make or break your salad! Follow these steps to get juicy, tender chicken every time:
- Start with medium heat. This ensures the chicken cooks through without burning the outside.
- Season well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. It’s done when the center is no longer pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes post-cooking. This keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.
Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (from fresh pineapple or canned)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll need about 7 minutes to cook the chicken, and the rest of the time is spent chopping fresh ingredients and making the dressing. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Cook them in the skillet until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes on a plate.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the chicken is resting, take a large mixing bowl and combine the chopped romaine lettuce, pineapple chunks, shredded purple cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, sliced almonds, and fresh cilantro. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pineapple juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste. This will create a deliciously creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together.
4. Combine Everything:
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top of the salad and toss everything together gently so it’s evenly coated and well mixed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Hawaiian chicken salad immediately for the freshest taste. It’s vibrant, delicious, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad!
FAQ About Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Can I Use Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, feel free to use it instead. Just shred or chop it and add it directly to the salad—easy and convenient!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’re concerned about the salad wilting, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir or shake before using, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
What Other Add-Ins or Substitutions Can I Use?
You can customize this salad with additional ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even shredded cheese! For a lower-carb option, try replacing the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu.
