Hawaiian Chicken Salad

As a baker and passionate recipe creator, I always seek out dishes that bring comfort and joy. This Hawaiian Chicken Salad holds a special place in my kitchen. I remember the first time I tasted it during a summer picnic. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and crunchy nuts instantly transported me to a tropical paradise. Since then, it has become my go-to recipe for sunny days and family gatherings.

This recipe isn’t just a salad—it’s a vibrant, refreshing experience that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Every bite bursts with sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for light lunches, picnics, or even weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why this Hawaiian Chicken Salad will win you over:

Versatile: Whether you want a simple lunch or a festive addition to a picnic spread, this salad fits the bill perfectly. It pairs beautifully with fresh bread, wraps, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need expensive ingredients to whip up this delicious dish. Most items, like cooked chicken and canned pineapple, are pantry staples. Even better, leftover chicken works wonderfully here.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this irresistible salad:

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked and shredded or diced chicken breast (rotisserie or grilled)

• 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned in juice, not syrup)

• 1/2 cup diced mango or papaya (optional)

• 1/2 cup sliced or slivered almonds or macadamia nuts

• 1/2 cup shredded or flaked unsweetened coconut

• 1/2 cup diced celery

• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup coconut milk or pineapple juice

• 2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

This simple list of ingredients comes together quickly, yet the final result feels both indulgent and wholesome.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Let me guide you through this simple and satisfying recipe. Every step is designed to be quick, easy, and packed with flavor. You’ll be amazed by how effortless it is to create such a delightful salad at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hawaiian Chicken Salad

1. Prepare the Ingredients

To start, cook the chicken breast if it isn’t already prepared. You can grill or poach the chicken, or simply use rotisserie chicken for ease. Once cooked, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Next, drain the pineapple thoroughly if using canned fruit. Dice it into small, uniform chunks. If you’re using mango or papaya, peel and dice them as well.

Now, chop the nuts roughly. You can use almonds or macadamia nuts—both add a delicious crunch. Slice the green onions thinly, and dice the celery for extra freshness.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise with coconut milk or pineapple juice. Then, add the lime or lemon juice for a bright and tangy note.

Sweeten the mixture slightly with honey or agave nectar. Sprinkle in the ground ginger or grate fresh ginger for a stronger kick. Add the ground coriander, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste it at this stage—you can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.

3. Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, pineapple, optional mango or papaya, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, diced celery, and sliced green onions.

Now, pour the creamy dressing over the mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the salad together. Keep stirring until every ingredient is well coated with the dressing.

4. Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This step allows all the tropical ingredients to blend beautifully.

When you’re ready to serve, stir the salad again and taste it one more time. You may want to sprinkle in a bit more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.

Quick and Easy Recipe

This salad is incredibly simple. You can prepare everything in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. The chilling time is hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this recipe is its flexibility. You can swap mango with papaya, or even omit them if you prefer a simpler flavor.

For a nuttier crunch, try toasted almonds instead of macadamia nuts. You can also replace coconut milk with pineapple juice for a lighter dressing.

If you love spice, feel free to add a dash of chili flakes or a chopped mild chili pepper for a little heat.

Crowd-Pleasing and Memorable

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad always receives compliments. Whether it’s a family lunch or a casual get-together, it impresses every time.

Its bright colors, creamy texture, and tropical flavor make it stand out on any table. Everyone appreciates how fresh and satisfying it is, and it often becomes the most talked-about dish of the meal.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily prepare this salad in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. The flavors deepen, and the texture stays perfect.

How long does Hawaiian Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Always stir it well before serving to freshen up the texture.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken works beautifully here, you can substitute it with cooked turkey or even shredded beef for a different twist.

Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, it’s quite easy. Simply ensure your mayonnaise and other ingredients are dairy-free. Coconut milk and the rest of the components are already dairy-free naturally.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Salad?

This salad pairs well with fresh bread, wraps, or crisp lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing meal. It also works wonderfully alongside grilled vegetables or rice dishes.

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