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Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Salad with pineapple, chicken, celery, and macadamia nuts

Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Salad

A refreshing chilled chicken salad with tropical flavors, featuring chicken, pineapple, and crunchy add-ins, perfect for hot days.
Servings 4 servings
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works best.
  • 1 cup pineapple, diced Use canned, fresh, or avoid heavy syrup.
  • 1 cup celery, diced Can substitute with cucumber or snap peas.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped Soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow flavor.
  • 1/2 cup macadamia nuts or cashews, chopped Toasted is preferred for better flavor.
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional) Use unsweetened if possible.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Can replace part with Greek yogurt.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice Fresh lime juice is best.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pineapple, celery, red onion, macadamia nuts or cashews, and shredded coconut (if using).
  • In a separate small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add a little honey if the pineapple isn't sweet enough.
  • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined.
  • Chill the salad for at least 20-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
  • Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

For a more savory version, add diced bell pepper, garlic powder, or green onions. This salad is delightful served on croissants, in lettuce cups, or stuffed in pita.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g
Author: Jano Ferrel
Calories: 330kcal
Course: dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Keyword: chicken salad, easy salad, Hawaiian Chicken Salad, Summertime Recipe, Tropical Salad