Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a sweet and savory dish that combines tender chicken with tropical flavors for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Shredded or diced chicken is mixed with juicy pineapple chunks, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing often made with mayo, Greek yogurt, or a combination of the two. Optional additions like toasted macadamia nuts, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries add texture and a burst of flavor.
I first made this salad for a summer gathering, and it instantly became a crowd favorite! The sweet pineapple and creamy dressing pair perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a dish that’s light yet hearty. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can serve it as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or over a bed of greens as a salad. Whether you’re prepping it for a picnic, potluck, or quick lunch, Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a tropical twist on a classic dish that’s sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Summer picnics
- Barbecues
- Light lunches
- Potlucks
- Tropical-themed parties
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Hawaiian Chicken Salad will become a favorite:
- Burst of Tropical Flavor: Sweet pineapple and savory chicken create a delightful flavor profile.
- Creamy and Tangy Dressing: The dressing combines creamy and citrusy elements for the perfect balance.
- Crunchy Texture: Celery and almonds add a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual lunches to festive gatherings, it suits every setting.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Kid-Friendly: A flavorful and colorful dish that appeals to all ages.
- Visually Stunning: Its vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any table.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds or macadamia nuts
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Highlights
- Fresh Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and a tropical touch.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides creaminess with a tangy twist.
- Sliced Almonds: Enhance the texture with a nutty crunch.
- Lime Juice: Brightens the dressing with a citrusy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Salad:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, pineapple, celery, red onion, almonds, and raisins (if using).
Make the Dressing:
- Mix Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Salad:
- Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
- Plate and Garnish: Serve chilled, garnished with additional almonds or fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Hawaiian Chicken Salad:
- In a Pineapple Boat: Hollow out a pineapple and serve the salad inside for a tropical presentation.
- With Crackers: Serve as a dip with your favorite crackers for a fun appetizer.
- Over Greens: Spoon the salad over a bed of mixed greens for a light meal.
- In a Wrap: Roll it up in a tortilla for a portable lunch option.
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or seafood at your next barbecue.
- With Toasted Bread: Serve on crusty bread as an open-faced sandwich.
- With Rice: Accompany with steamed jasmine or coconut rice for a heartier dish.
- In Lettuce Cups: Spoon the salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Topped with Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for an aromatic touch.
- In a Bento Box: Add it to a bento box for a flavorful and balanced meal.
Additional Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe pineapples and mangoes for the best tropical flavor. Avoid canned fruits if you want a more vibrant and natural taste.
- Juicy Chicken: For tender and flavorful chicken, poach it in chicken broth with a hint of ginger and garlic. Let it cool before shredding or dicing.
- Crunch Factor: Add texture with chopped macadamia nuts or toasted almonds. They’ll give the salad a delightful crunch.
- Creamy Dressing: Blend Greek yogurt with a touch of mayonnaise, lime juice, and honey for a light and tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with the sweet fruits.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Leafy Base: Serve the salad on a bed of butter lettuce or romaine for added freshness and presentation.
- Coconut Touch: Toast some shredded coconut and sprinkle it on top for an extra tropical twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes to the dressing for a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Experiment with additions like diced papaya, green onions, or red bell peppers to make it your own.
- Make It a Wrap: Transform the salad into a meal by wrapping it in a tortilla or serving it in a hollowed-out pineapple for a fun presentation..
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Hawaiian Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a meat-free alternative.
- Tropical Twist: Include mango or papaya for a fruity variation.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and skip the Greek yogurt.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Mix in chopped fresh basil or mint for an aromatic note.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Extra Crunch: Add diced bell peppers or cucumbers for more texture.
- Zesty Addition: Grate a bit of lime zest into the dressing for extra citrus flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add crumbled bacon for a smoky contrast.
- Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil and soy sauce in the dressing for a fusion twist.
Special Equipment
- Salad Spinner – For washing and drying lettuce or greens.
- Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill – For perfectly grilled chicken with seared marks.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – To dice pineapple, chop vegetables, and slice chicken evenly.
- Cutting Board – Essential for prepping all salad ingredients.
- Citrus Juicer – To extract fresh juice for the dressing or marinade.
- Mixing Bowls – For tossing salad ingredients and mixing dressings.
- Whisk – For blending dressings smoothly.
- Mandoline Slicer – To thinly slice veggies like cucumbers or carrots, if needed.
- Food Storage Containers – To marinate the chicken and store any leftovers.
- Tongs – For grilling the chicken and tossing the salad.
FAQ Section
- Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, canned pineapple works in a pinch, but fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture. - How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add nuts just before serving to maintain crunch. - Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the salad and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving. - Can I freeze Hawaiian Chicken Salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the dressing and fresh ingredients may change. - What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Try avocado or hummus for a lighter, mayo-free alternative. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free. - What’s the best chicken for this recipe?
Use roasted, grilled, or poached chicken breast for the best results. - Can I make this salad spicy?
Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced chili peppers for heat. - What other nuts can I use?
Cashews, pecans, or walnuts are great substitutes for almonds or macadamia nuts. - How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Drain the pineapple well and add dressing just before serving.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a tropical twist on a classic favorite, featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing with a hint of sweetness. This refreshing and flavorful salad is perfect for a light lunch, a potluck, or a sunny picnic, bringing a taste of the islands to your table.
To make this salad, start with cooked and shredded chicken breast as the base. Combine it with diced pineapple, chopped celery, sliced red onions, and a handful of shredded carrots for added texture and color. For a nutty crunch, toss in some chopped macadamia nuts or almonds.
For the dressing, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, a splash of pineapple juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the dressing into the chicken mixture until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish.
Serve the Hawaiian Chicken Salad over a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or stuffed into a wrap. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize—add coconut flakes for a tropical touch or jalapeños for a hint of spice.
I can’t wait to see how your Hawaiian Chicken Salad turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your sunny creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this salad your own!
