Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

There's something incredibly refreshing about a bowl of Hawaiian Chicken Salad on a warm day. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crunchy macadamia nuts creates a symphony of flavors and textures that's simply irresistible. Whether you're serving it on a bed of crisp lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers for an afternoon snack, this salad is a true tropical delight.

I first made this recipe after a trip to Hawaii, where I fell in love with the island's fresh and vibrant cuisine. Inspired by the sweet and savory flavors I experienced, I wanted to bring a little taste of paradise back home. After a few tweaks and taste tests, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe rotation! This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is more than just a meal—it's an experience.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a delicious salad in no time. Perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute get-togethers.

It's also light yet satisfying. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and natural sweetness from the pineapple makes it a balanced dish that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.

Plus, this salad is versatile. Serve it as a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce cups, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. You can even customize it with your favorite mix-ins to make it uniquely yours.

Finally, it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic, potluck, or just enjoying it at home, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Hawaiian Chicken Salad lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table.

Chicken is the heart of this salad. I prefer using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, but you can also poach or grill your own. Just be sure to let it cool before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Pineapple is the key to the dish’s tropical flair. Fresh pineapple works best for a juicy, bright flavor, but canned pineapple (drained well) is a great alternative when fresh isn’t available.

Macadamia nuts add a rich, buttery crunch that complements the softness of the chicken and pineapple. Toast them lightly before adding for an extra depth of flavor.

Greek yogurt and mayonnaise create the perfect creamy dressing. Using Greek yogurt lightens up the salad while keeping it creamy and delicious. A little bit of mayo balances out the tanginess and adds that classic chicken salad texture.

Green onions and celery provide freshness and crunch, making sure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

For equipment, all you need is a large mixing bowl, a knife for chopping, and a spoon for mixing—simple and hassle-free!

How To Make This Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Making this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is as simple as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preparing your ingredients. If you’re using fresh pineapple, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the celery and green onions finely so they blend well into the salad.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pineapple, macadamia nuts, celery, and green onions. Stir everything together so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Next, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The lime juice adds a touch of brightness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious!

Storage Options

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep.

To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days, though the flavors are best within the first two days.

If you’re meal prepping, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving. This helps maintain the best texture and prevents any sogginess.

Freezing is not recommended, as the yogurt-based dressing can separate and become watery when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is how customizable it is! Here are a few fun variations:

Want a lighter version? Swap out the mayonnaise entirely for extra Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a healthier twist.

For a nut-free option, simply leave out the macadamia nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

If you love a little extra sweetness, add a handful of halved grapes or diced mango to enhance the tropical flavors.

Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the dressing.

Try a different protein by using shrimp instead of chicken for a fun seafood twist.

No matter how you make it, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is sure to be a hit. Get creative, experiment with flavors, and enjoy your own taste of the tropics!

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