Introduction
Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a refreshing, tropical twist on a classic chicken salad, combining tender chicken with pineapple, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing. It balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it a quick yet satisfying meal option. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, light lunches, or summer gatherings.
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Origin
While chicken salad has roots in European and American cuisine, the Hawaiian-inspired version emerged in the mid-20th century when tropical ingredients like pineapple and coconut became popular in American kitchens. By blending traditional chicken salad with tropical fruits, cooks created a dish that evokes island vibes and summertime freshness.
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Cultural Significance
Hawaiian Chicken Salad represents fusion cooking at its best. It symbolizes the blending of mainland American comfort food with Polynesian-inspired flavors, often enjoyed at potlucks, barbecues, and beach gatherings. Its use of pineapple highlights the fruit’s cultural importance in Hawaii, where it has become an iconic ingredient linked to hospitality and sunshine.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
½ cup celery, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
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Optional Additions
2 tbsp shredded coconut (for extra tropical flavor)
¼ cup macadamia nuts or cashews (for crunch)
½ cup grapes or mango chunks (for sweetness)
Dash of chili flakes or sriracha (for a spicy kick)
Romaine or butter lettuce leaves (to serve as wraps)
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Tips for Success
1. Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and keep it juicy.
2. Drain pineapple well to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
3. Chill ingredients for 5–10 minutes before serving for a crisp, refreshing bite.
4. Adjust dressing thickness by adding more mayo/yogurt or a splash of pineapple juice.
5. Serve immediately for best texture, but it can also be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
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Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pineapple chunks, celery, bell pepper, and onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Stir in fresh cilantro or parsley.
5. Serve immediately in lettuce cups, on toasted bread, or with crackers.
Ready in just 15 minutes!
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Description
This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, with bursts of juicy pineapple balancing savory chicken. Crunchy vegetables add freshness, while the creamy dressing ties it all together. Each bite feels like sunshine on a plate, making it a delightful quick meal.
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Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx.)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: ~360 mg
(Varies based on mayo/yogurt choice and added ingredients)
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Conclusion
Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a vibrant, quick-to-make dish that blends classic comfort food with tropical flair. In just 15 minutes, you have a refreshing meal that works equally well as a light lunch, picnic food, or party favorite.
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Recommendation
Pair this salad with whole-grain crackers, serve it inside a croissant for a hearty sandwich, or present it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It also pairs beautifully with iced tea, tropical fruit smoothies, or a light white wine.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this salad lighter, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, use fresh pineapple instead of canned, and add extra vegetables like cucumber or spinach. For added protein, toss in chickpeas or quinoa. This way, you keep the tropical indulgence while nourishing your body.
