Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

You will love this Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe – it’s a delicious tropical twist on the traditional classic. This salad can be made ahead and is perfect for potlucks, brunches, and lunches. With fresh ingredients and a unique blend of flavors, it will surely become a favorite at your gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This chicken salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals or last-minute parties.
• Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple, coconut, and nuts offers a delightful taste of the tropics that brightens any table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it in lettuce wraps, on bread, or as a side dish, this salad adapts to various serving styles.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before to let the flavors meld together. It’s ready when you are!
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With its vibrant colors and unique taste, it appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this tasty Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly without any mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for vegetables and chicken, making prep quicker.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to the best flavor balance in your salad.

Ingredients

For this Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Salad

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast (cut into ½ cubes)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 3 ounces water chestnuts (sliced then roughly chopped)
• 1½ cups seedless grapes
• 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts or slivered almonds (sliced almonds are fine too)
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks or tidbits (no added sugar) (drained)
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes (toasted; reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish)

For the Dressing

• 1½ cups mayonnaise
• ½ cup coconut milk (canned variety)
• ½ tablespoon curry powder
• ½ tablespoon soy sauce (tamari or coconut aminos)
• juice of half a lemon

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. 3 cups cooked chicken breast
3. 1 cup celery
4. 3 ounces water chestnuts
5. 1½ cups seedless grapes
6. 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts or slivered almonds
7. 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks or tidbits

8. ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

9. Remember to set aside some nuts and coconut flakes for garnish later.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a separate bowl, mix together:
2. 1½ cups mayonnaise
3. ½ cup coconut milk
4. ½ tablespoon curry powder
5. ½ tablespoon soy sauce

6. juice of half a lemon

7. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour the dressing over the salad base.
2. Gently stir until everything is well coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Just before serving, garnish with remaining nuts and toasted coconut flakes.
2. Enjoy your refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe is versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and healthy option. The greens add a refreshing crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce to create refreshing wraps. Fill each leaf with chicken salad for a fun, hand-held meal.

With Tropical Fruit Slices

• Pair the salad with slices of tropical fruits like mango or kiwi. The sweetness enhances the flavors of the chicken salad and adds a colorful presentation.

As Sandwich Filling

• Spread the Hawaiian Chicken Salad between slices of whole grain or ciabatta bread. This makes for a satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.

Over Quinoa or Rice

• Serve the salad over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. This adds heartiness to the dish and makes it more filling, ideal for dinner.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken salad. Add some extra veggies for crunch and enjoy as a quick lunch option on-the-go.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

To make sure your Hawaiian Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and crisp vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste of your salad.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours helps meld flavors together beautifully. Overnight chilling is even better!

• Customize Texture: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on personal preference. Adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots can bring additional texture and color.

• Garnish Creatively: Use remaining nuts and coconut flakes as garnish not only for aesthetics but also to add an extra crunch when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Pineapple Slices
   The sweet and smoky flavor complements the salad perfectly, adding an exciting tropical touch.

2. Crispy Tortilla Chips
   Serve with chips alongside for crunch, making it easy to scoop up the delicious salad.

3. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and balances out the richness of the chicken salad with its natural sweetness.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture while enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.

5. Vegetable Platter
   Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a crunchy accompaniment that you can dip into any leftover dressing.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness complements the tropical flavors of your chicken salad while being hearty enough to satisfy hunger.

7. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers refreshing notes that pair well with rich flavors in your main dish.

8. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer gatherings alongside your delightful chicken salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can break down the chicken and make the salad mushy. Gently fold the ingredients to keep the texture intact.

• Ignoring Chilling Time: Skipping the chilling step can result in flavors that don’t meld well. Allow at least 8 hours for optimal taste.

• Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes can lead to a less appealing dish. Reserve some nuts and coconut flakes for topping to enhance presentation.

• Using Non-Drained Pineapple: Not draining pineapple chunks properly can make the salad watery. Ensure you drain them well before adding them to the mix.

• Choosing Low-Quality Mayonnaise: Using poor-quality mayonnaise can affect flavor. Opt for a good brand or homemade version for a richer taste.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to bland results. Always sample before serving and tweak as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Good for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid odor absorption.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container.
• Consume within 1 month for best quality, though it may lose its texture upon thawing.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warm; this may dry out the salad, so be careful.
• Microwave: Use short intervals on low power; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low flame while stirring constantly; add a splash of coconut milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe:

What is in Hawaiian Chicken Salad?

Hawaiian Chicken Salad typically includes cooked chicken, pineapple, grapes, nuts, celery, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and coconut milk.

Can I make this Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. It tastes even better after chilling overnight, as flavors meld beautifully over time.

How long does Hawaiian Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

Your Hawaiian Chicken Salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite fruits or nuts such as mangoes or cashews. You can also adjust seasonings based on your preferences.

Is this chicken salad healthy?

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is relatively healthy, packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables. The use of coconut milk adds healthy fats too!

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch or packing lunch, it’s versatile enough for various settings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hawaiian Chicken Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Hawaiian Chicken Salad Recipe, a delightful twist on the classic salad that brings the tropics to your table. Packed with tender chicken, juicy pineapple, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing, this dish is perfect for potlucks, brunches, or as a quick lunch option. The combination of sweet and savory elements will excite your taste buds and elevate any gathering. Easily prepared in just 20 minutes and best when chilled overnight, this salad is not only delicious but also convenient. Try it today for a refreshing meal that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast (cubed)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 3 ounces water chestnuts (sliced and chopped)
• 1½ cups seedless grapes
• 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts or slivered almonds
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks (drained)
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes (toasted)
• 1½ cups mayonnaise
• ½ cup coconut milk
• ½ tablespoon curry powder
• ½ tablespoon soy sauce
• juice of half a lemon

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, water chestnuts, grapes, nuts, pineapple, and coconut flakes (reserve some for garnish).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, coconut milk, curry powder, soy sauce, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, garnish with reserved nuts and coconut flakes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 28g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 55mg