Hawaiian Chicken Salad

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a deliciously refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, crunchy macadamia nuts, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for summer lunches, potlucks, or a light dinner, this tropical twist on a classic chicken salad is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with tropical flavors from pineapple and coconut
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Versatile: can be served as a sandwich, wrap, or over greens
• Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead meals
• Light yet satisfying with a balance of protein and crunch

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked, shredded chicken
• Pineapple chunks
• Macadamia nuts
• Shredded coconut
• Celery
• Red onion
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt
• Honey
• Lime juice
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with pineapple chunks, chopped macadamia nuts, shredded coconut, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled over a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or as a wrap.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Nut-Free: Swap macadamia nuts for sunflower seeds.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt or an all-mayo dressing.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped bell peppers or water chestnuts.
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh cilantro or basil for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the mayo-based dressing.
• Reheating: Best served cold, but can be slightly warmed if desired.

FAQs

How can I make this healthier?

Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt entirely and use unsweetened coconut.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken offers the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with crackers, croissants, or lettuce wraps.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check that all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add more fruits?

Absolutely! Grapes, mango, or even dried cranberries would work well.

What kind of chicken is best?

Poached, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works best for this salad.

Can I use a different nut?

Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans can replace macadamia nuts.

How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?

Drain the pineapple thoroughly and avoid overmixing.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, shredded coconut or crumbled feta would add extra flavor.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. It’s perfect for quick lunches, family gatherings, or meal prep. With its blend of sweet and savory ingredients, this refreshing salad is sure to become a household favorite!

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