Description
This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple, crunchy macadamia nuts, and crisp veggies with a light, creamy dressing. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with protein and healthy fats, and perfect for a balanced, whole-health lifestyle. Enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or as a topping for a fresh green salad!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple (diced)
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup macadamia nuts (chopped)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for extra tropical flavor)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or use mayo for a richer version)
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pineapple, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, macadamia nuts, and shredded coconut (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 3: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve on its own, in lettuce wraps, on gluten-free toast, or over a bed of greens. Enjoy!
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
Tips & Variations
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or avocado-based mayo.
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped almonds or sunflower seeds.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Saving & Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serving After Chilling: Give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
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