Tropical Chicken with Pineapple

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad brings a tropical twist to a classic dish with sweet pineapple and savory chicken. The refreshing combination offers a taste of the islands that works beautifully as a light lunch or dinner option, especially during warmer months when you crave something cool yet satisfying.

I first created this recipe when looking for ways to use up leftover grilled chicken during a particularly hot summer. My family immediately requested it again the following week, and it's since become our go-to lunch for beach picnics and pool days.

Ingredients:

• Cooked chicken breast The protein foundation provides a neutral canvas for the tropical flavors. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience
• Pineapple chunks These deliver the signature Hawaiian sweetness and juicy texture. Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor but canned works in a pinch
• Celery Adds essential crunch and freshness to balance the softer textures. Look for crisp stalks with bright color
• Red onion Provides a sharp contrast to the sweet pineapple. Choose a firm onion with vibrant purple color
• Gluten free mayo Creates the creamy base that brings everything together. Select a high quality brand for best flavor
• Lime juice Brightens all the flavors with necessary acidity. Always use fresh squeezed for optimal taste
• Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Sea salt and freshly ground pepper make a noticeable difference
• Green onions or cilantro Adds color and a fresh finish. Choose based on your preference for mild onion flavor or bright herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the chicken mixture

Combine the shredded chicken, pineapple chunks, finely chopped celery, and red onion in a large bowl. Ensure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent texture and flavor in each bite. The chicken should be completely cooled before mixing to prevent wilting the vegetables.

Create the dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayo, fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper until completely smooth. This separate step ensures the dressing is evenly seasoned before coating the salad ingredients. Take time to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Combine and coat

Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix or the chicken might break down too much, affecting the final texture of your salad.

Final touches

Sprinkle your chosen garnish of green onions or cilantro over the top. This not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a fresh flavor element that complements the tropical profile. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together completely.

Bookmark

The pineapple is truly the star ingredient here, transforming an ordinary chicken salad into something special. I discovered this happy accident when trying to use up leftover grilled pineapple from a barbecue. The sweet caramelized flavor paired so perfectly with the chicken that it instantly became a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad actually improves with a little time in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to develop, though the vegetables may lose some crunch after the first day. If making ahead for entertaining, consider adding the celery just before serving to maintain maximum texture contrast.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this versatile chicken salad shines in multiple presentations. Serve it in butter lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch option, or pile it onto toasted gluten-free bread for a satisfying sandwich. For a gorgeous appetizer, spoon it into hollowed-out pineapple halves and garnish with extra cilantro. The tropical flavors also pair wonderfully with avocado slices for added creaminess.

Customization Options

This recipe welcomes personalization based on your preferences. For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts or sliced almonds. Enhance the tropical theme with 1/4 cup diced mango or papaya alongside the pineapple. If you enjoy heat, incorporate a finely diced jalapeño or a dash of sriracha into the dressing. For a creamier version, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt, which adds tanginess and reduces calories.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use canned chicken for this Hawaiian salad?

Yes, canned chicken works as a time-saving alternative. Drain it well and flake with a fork before combining with other ingredients. The texture will be slightly different than freshly cooked chicken breast, but the tropical flavors will still shine through.

→ How long does Hawaiian chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this salad keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and improve after the first day, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

This versatile Hawaiian chicken salad can be served in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, on gluten-free bread as a sandwich, stuffed in avocado halves, or simply alongside a green salad. It also works well as a dip with gluten-free crackers for casual entertaining.

→ Can I make this Hawaiian chicken salad dairy-free?

This salad is naturally dairy-free as written. The creamy element comes from mayonnaise, which is typically made with eggs rather than dairy. Just ensure your specific mayo brand is dairy-free if that's a concern.

→ What can I substitute for mayo in this salad?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for the mayonnaise, creating a tangier, protein-rich dressing. You can also use mashed avocado for a different but complementary flavor profile, or a combination of yogurt and avocado for the best of both worlds.

→ How can I add more tropical flavor to this Hawaiian salad?

To enhance the tropical notes, try adding diced mango, a tablespoon of toasted coconut flakes, or a splash of coconut milk to the dressing. A small amount of chopped macadamia nuts also adds authentic Hawaiian flavor and a pleasant crunch.