This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a sunny mix of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and crunchy celery. It’s creamy, colorful, and perfect for lunch or a picnic!
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty meal that brings a little island vibe to your table. Who doesn’t need a mini vacation? 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or sliced cooked chicken is essential for protein. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with chickpeas or tofu for that hearty texture.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch, but feel free to swap it out with any greens you love, like spinach or mixed salad greens. This way, you can customize based on what you have or love!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives a sweet touch, but canned pineapple works fine too! Just drain it well to avoid excess juice. If pineapple doesn’t suit your taste, mango or orange segments can also provide sweetness.
Cabbage: Purple cabbage adds color and crunch. Green cabbage is a good substitute, or even shredded Brussels sprouts if you want a twist!
Mayonnaise: I prefer regular mayo for creaminess, but if you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Adjust the quantity until you get your desired creaminess.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Flavorful?
It’s key to really incorporate your ingredients well. Start by ensuring your chicken is seasoned nicely. If you have leftovers from a seasoned dish, that adds great flavor!
- Mix your dressing ingredients well before adding to the salad.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! Letting it sit for 20-30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Always taste and adjust! A pinch more salt, a sprinkle of pepper, or an extra drizzle of honey can elevate the dish.
Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup purple cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hawaiian Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can also let it chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to enhance the flavors, making the total time around 45 minutes if you opt for chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded purple cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, fresh pineapple chunks, and cooked chicken. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
2. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the sliced almonds and optional fresh cilantro leaves over the top of the salad for added crunch and flavor.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
For best results, let the salad sit in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve immediately after chilling, or keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your fresh and colorful Hawaiian Chicken Salad!
FAQ for Easy Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple well to avoid excess juice. Canned pineapple is a convenient option and still adds the sweet flavor you want!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit soggy over time, so it’s best to consume it within one day if you want the freshest texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend waiting to mix in the dressing until just before serving. If you dress it too early, the greens can wilt. You can keep the dressing separate in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free alternative, Greek yogurt works great in place of mayonnaise! You can also use avocado for a creamy texture. Adjust the amount to your taste for desired creaminess.
