Introduction: Chicken Salad Recipe With Pineapple
This pineapple chicken salad recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The addition of crushed pineapple or pineapple chunks brings a slightly tropical twist to the classic chicken salad, while ingredients like shredded chicken, sliced almonds, and chopped pecans add delightful texture. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breast, or even grilled chicken, the result is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with lettuce leaves, croissant sandwiches, or even toast.
The creamy dressing—a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors—ties everything together seamlessly. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With a quick prep time and the ability to make it ahead, this pineapple chicken salad is ideal for summer picnics, busy weeknight dinners, or as a salad with fresh pineapple for lunch.
You’ll love how adaptable this recipe is. You can include extras like red grapes, celery, or green onion for added crunch and flavor. It’s perfect straight out of the bowl or as a filling for chicken salad sandwiches. The balance of sweet pineapple, savory chicken mixture, and a hint of salt and pepper to taste creates a harmony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
Whether you’re looking for a wonderful recipe to prepare at the beginning of the week or something to enjoy for a special occasion, this dish is a must-try. It’s no surprise that readers who love this recipe often come back to make it again and again. With its unique pineapple recipe twist and salad ingredients you already have at home, it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to delicious recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best pineapple chicken salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh and flavorful salad ingredients that come together effortlessly. Here’s everything required for this delightful chicken salad recipe:
Key Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken: Start with shredded chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken for extra flavor. If you prefer homemade, you can bake chicken breast or grill the chicken—just make sure the chicken is done before shredding or chopping.
- Pineapple: For a sweet tropical twist, use crushed pineapple, pineapple tidbits, or pineapple chunks. If you’re using canned pineapple, be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid extra liquid. For a fresher flavor, you can also opt for fresh pineapple and include a splash of pineapple juice to brighten the dish.
- Mayonnaise: This forms the base of the creamy dressing. You can use full-fat mayo for richness or lighten it up with a mix of sour cream.
- Celery: Finely chopped celery adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.
- Green Onion or Red Onion: Both work well to add a savory, slightly tangy note to the mix.
Optional Add-Ins for Texture and Flavor
- Sliced Almonds, Slivered Almonds, or Chopped Pecans: These add a nutty crunch and pair beautifully with the sweet pineapple.
- Red Grapes: For a pop of sweetness, add halved red grapes.
- Lettuce Leaves: Use lettuce leaves as a fresh base for serving or wrap the salad in croissant sandwiches.
Seasoning and Finishing Touches
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Add a pinch of both to balance the flavors.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the overall dish.
Optional Variations
- Macadamia Nuts or Broccoli Salad: For a unique twist, toss in some macadamia nuts or mix it with a pasta salad for a heartier option.
- Cream Cheese: If you want an extra creamy version, fold in softened cream cheese into the dressing.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Bowl: To combine the ingredients seamlessly.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the dressing.
- Airtight Container: For storing leftovers in the fridge for at least a couple of days.
This list ensures you have everything needed to make this recipe with ease. Whether you’re assembling a dish for a picnic, making chicken salad sandwiches, or enjoying it straight out of the bowl, these ingredients guarantee a slightly tropical chicken salad experience every time!
Preparing the Chicken and Pineapple
The key to a great pineapple chicken salad lies in how you prepare the chicken and pineapple. These two ingredients are the stars of the dish, and taking a little time to cook the chicken and prepare the pineapple will ensure your salad is both flavorful and fresh. Here’s how to do it:
Preparing the Chicken
You have several options for the chicken in this pineapple chicken salad recipe. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken breast, or cooked chicken, it’s important to ensure that the chicken is tender, flavorful, and properly shredded or chopped.
- Rotisserie Chicken: This is a convenient option that adds extra flavor. Simply use a rotisserie chicken, shred the meat, and discard the skin and bones. This saves you time and gives your salad a savory depth.
- Grilled Chicken: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the chicken before shredding it. Make sure to season with salt and pepper, and cook the chicken thoroughly until chicken is done.
- Baked Chicken Breast: For a leaner option, bake chicken breast in the oven with a little salt, pepper, and olive oil until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred the chicken or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Shredded Chicken: If you want a quicker option, cooked chicken from a previous meal or leftover chicken meat works just as well.
Once the chicken is cooked, allow the chicken to cool before shredding it. This prevents the salad from becoming too warm. After cooling, shred the chicken with a fork or chop it into small pieces, depending on your texture preference.
Preparing the Pineapple
Next up is the pineapple. Whether you opt for fresh pineapple, canned pineapple, or crushed pineapple, it’s essential to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Fresh Pineapple: If you’re using fresh pineapple, peel and core it, then chop it into bite-sized pineapple chunks. You can also use a mix of pineapple tidbits for a smaller texture.
- Canned Pineapple: If you’re using canned pineapple, make sure to drain the pineapple completely before adding it to the salad to avoid making the dressing too watery.
- Crushed Pineapple: If you’re using crushed pineapple, ensure that you squeeze out any excess juice before mixing it into your salad.
The natural sweetness of the pineapple pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken mixture, and together they create a balance of sweet and savory flavors. To make this pineapple chicken salad recipe even better, you can toss the pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple into a mixing bowl along with your chicken and other salad ingredients.
Once the chicken and pineapple are prepared, you’re ready to move on to combining the ingredients and making your chicken salad with pineapple. The preparation of these ingredients is the first step toward making a delicious, refreshing salad that you can enjoy on its own or as a filling for chicken salad sandwiches or on a bed of lettuce leaves.
These simple preparations of cooked chicken and fresh pineapple are the foundation of this wonderful recipe, setting the stage for the sweet and savory flavors that make this dish a standout.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Pineapple
Making a delicious pineapple chicken salad is quick and easy! Follow these steps to create a creamy, sweet, and savory dish that you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken if you haven’t done so already. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken breast, or shredded chicken. If you’re starting from scratch, grill the chicken or bake chicken breast until chicken is done. Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. This step can also be done in advance to save time.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple
While the chicken is cooling, it’s time to prep the pineapple. Whether you’re using fresh pineapple, canned pineapple, or crushed pineapple, make sure to drain the pineapple (if using canned) and squeeze out any excess juice to avoid making the salad too watery. Chop fresh pineapple into bite-sized pineapple chunks, or use pineapple tidbits for a more delicate texture. If you’re using crushed pineapple, just be sure to remove any excess moisture by pressing it gently with a spoon or paper towel.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, pineapple chunks, and other salad ingredients like celery, green onion, and optional additions like sliced almonds or chopped pecans. These will add a nice crunch and complement the sweet pineapple with a savory bite. Add a handful of red grapes for a burst of sweetness if you’d like!
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the creamy dressing by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, and a dash of fresh lemon juice. This combination creates a tangy, creamy base for your pineapple chicken salad recipe. If you want a lighter version, you can use full-fat or reduced-fat sour cream or adjust the ratio based on your preference. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix well. For a unique twist, you can also incorporate a small amount of pineapple juice or a touch of honey mustard for extra flavor.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the chicken and pineapple mixture. Combine the chicken and salad ingredients gently, tossing everything together until evenly coated. The dressing should coat the chicken mixture without being too thick or too runny. If you want a bit of extra creaminess, you can fold in some cream cheese at this stage.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs more tang, add a bit more lemon juice to brighten it up. For more sweetness, add a little extra pineapple or even a drizzle of pineapple juice. Don’t forget to season with a bit of salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
After mixing, sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This step enhances the overall taste and allows the creamy dressing to soak into the chicken and pineapple. You can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge if you’re making it in advance. It will keep well for a few days, and the flavors continue to develop.
When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy your pineapple chicken salad on lettuce leaves, croissants, or simply as a side to toast or a pasta salad. It’s also perfect on its own, straight out of the bowl!
This chicken salad with pineapple is a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, chicken salad sandwiches, or just for yourself, it’s sure to be a hit. Love this recipe and the ease of creating such a satisfying dish that’s both sweet and savory!
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken Salad Recipe
This pineapple chicken salad is a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, preparing a quick lunch, or serving it as a light dinner, this chicken salad recipe is sure to impress. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making and enjoying this dish:
A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory
The natural sweetness of pineapple—whether you’re using fresh pineapple, crushed pineapple, or pineapple chunks—pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken. Adding a touch of fresh lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, creating a satisfying combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken. The salad ingredients like green onion, celery, and red onion enhance the salad’s taste and texture, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile and Customizable
This pineapple chicken salad recipe is easily adaptable. You can use a variety of chicken options, such as rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or baked chicken breast, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference. If you’re looking to add extra crunch or flavor, you can include sliced almonds, slivered almonds, or chopped pecans. For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, red grapes or macadamia nuts make a great addition. Want to make it creamier? Just fold in some cream cheese or use a bit more mayonnaise.
Simple and Quick to Make
One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. After cooking the chicken, all you need to do is combine your ingredients, prepare the creamy dressing, and mix it all together in a large bowl. This is a great summer recipe that can be prepared quickly for any occasion. Whether you’re making chicken salad sandwiches with croissant bread or serving it over lettuce leaves, this pineapple chicken salad is a dish that requires little effort but yields a big impact.
Perfect for Leftovers
If you’re preparing this pineapple chicken salad in advance, you’ll love how well it stores. After preparing, just place it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep well for at least a few days. You can enjoy it as a healthy snack or serve it on toast or in a pasta salad for a quick meal during the week. It’s the perfect dish to make at the beginning of the week and enjoy throughout!
A Light and Refreshing Meal
With ingredients like lettuce, celery, and fresh pineapple, this chicken salad with pineapple is light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. It’s perfect for warmer days or any time you want something that’s filling but not too heavy. Whether served in a bowl or as a filling for a sandwich, it’s a dish that won’t leave you feeling overly stuffed.
Great for Special Occasions or Casual Meals
This pineapple chicken salad is a flexible dish that fits any occasion. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue, enjoy it for a simple lunch with sandwich bread or croissant, or even serve it on lettuce leaves for a light appetizer. It’s a dish that is both festive and practical, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Sweet and Savory Combinations for Every Taste
The combination of pineapple and chicken is a proven winner. The sweetness of the pineapple chunks or pineapple tidbits adds a tropical flair to the savory chicken, making every bite a perfect balance. Pineapple juice in the dressing also enhances this sweet-savory combination, creating an unforgettable taste.
This pineapple chicken salad recipe is truly versatile, offering endless opportunities for customization while staying true to the best chicken salad flavors you know and love. It’s a delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, and you’ll love how easy it is to make and enjoy!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Salad
Once you’ve made this pineapple chicken salad, there are many ways you can serve it to enjoy its fresh, sweet, and savory flavors. This versatile chicken salad recipe can be presented in various forms, whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or in a creative way to impress your guests. Here are some serving ideas that will elevate your pineapple chicken salad experience.
Serve on Croissants or Sandwich Bread
For a quick and easy meal, use this pineapple chicken salad as a filling for chicken salad sandwiches. Place the salad in a croissant or sandwich bread for a satisfying and portable option. The buttery croissant adds a deliciously flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy mayonnaise and pineapple chunks in the chicken salad. If you prefer something a bit heartier, toasted bread works just as well and brings a nice crunch to each bite.
On Lettuce Leaves for a Light Meal
For a lighter option, serve your chicken salad with pineapple on a bed of lettuce leaves. Whether you use romaine, butter lettuce, or any type of leafy greens, the fresh lettuce provides a crisp contrast to the creamy chicken salad mixture. It’s a great way to keep your meal low-carb or simply add a refreshing touch to the salad.
As a Salad Over Mixed Greens
For a more substantial meal, toss your pineapple chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or even broccoli salad for added crunch and nutrition. The combination of lettuce, celery, and other salad ingredients with the sweet and savory chicken salad creates a vibrant and satisfying dish. You can also add extras like red grapes, green onion, or sliced almonds for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
In a Wrap or Tortilla
If you’re looking for something easy to eat on the go, scoop the pineapple chicken salad into a tortilla wrap. You can use a whole-wheat wrap or a spinach tortilla to add more flavor and make it even healthier. Wrap it up tightly for a meal you can take with you to work or on a picnic.
With Toast or Crackers
For a more casual approach, serve your pineapple chicken salad with toast or crackers on the side. This is an ideal way to enjoy the salad as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. You can also use the toast as a base and spoon the chicken salad on top for an open-faced sandwich that is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Make Pineapple Chicken Salad Sandwiches for Parties
This recipe makes an excellent choice for serving at parties or gatherings. Pineapple chicken salad sandwiches are always a crowd-pleaser, and you can make them on croissants, mini sandwich bread, or even rolls for easy, bite-sized servings. Pair the sandwiches with some crunchy sides like celery sticks or cucumber tomato salad to balance out the richness of the chicken salad.
As a Side for Grilled Chicken or BBQ
If you’re serving this pineapple chicken salad alongside a main dish, it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or BBQ. The sweetness of the pineapple in the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats. A pasta salad or a side of broccoli salad would also make excellent companions for a complete meal.
As a Light Snack or Appetizer
If you’re entertaining guests or just want a lighter bite, pineapple chicken salad is perfect for serving as a starter or snack. You can scoop small portions of the salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or serve it in small bowls with crackers on the side. This can be an elegant and healthy addition to any gathering.
Pair with Fresh Fruit or Fruit Salad
To make your pineapple chicken salad even more refreshing, serve it with a side of fruit salad or sliced pineapple. The sweetness of the fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken mixture, making it a great choice for a light summer meal.
Serve it in a Large Bowl for Family Meals
For a more casual and family-friendly approach, serve your pineapple chicken salad in a large bowl. This allows everyone to help themselves, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. You can also keep the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for later, making it easy to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
No matter how you serve it, pineapple chicken salad is a delightful dish that’s versatile, fresh, and packed with flavor. The creamy dressing, crunchy almonds, and juicy pineapple will have you falling in love with this delicious recipe time and time again!
How to Store Leftovers of Pineapple Chicken Salad
When you make a large batch of pineapple chicken salad, it’s always great to know how to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh for the next meal. This chicken salad recipe can last in the fridge for several days if stored correctly, so you don’t have to worry about wasting any of the savory and sweet flavors.
Here’s a guide on how to store your pineapple chicken salad so you can enjoy it later:
Store in an Airtight Container
To ensure your pineapple chicken salad stays fresh, transfer the leftover chicken salad with pineapple into an airtight container. This will prevent air from getting inside, which can cause the salad to spoil quicker. The container will also help maintain the creamy texture of the mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, keeping the salad as delicious as when you first made it.
Keep It in the Fridge
Once stored in an airtight container, place your pineapple chicken salad in the fridge. The cool temperature will help preserve the freshness of the chicken mixture and pineapple chunks. It’s best to refrigerate the salad for no longer than 3 to 4 days. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, be mindful that it may not last quite as long as freshly cooked chicken, so try to finish the salad within a couple of days.
Separate the Pineapple Juice
If you used canned pineapple or crushed pineapple in your recipe, be sure to drain the pineapple well before mixing it with the chicken. Excess pineapple juice can make the chicken salad watery over time. When storing the leftovers, it’s a good idea to store the juice separately if you plan to add it back for extra flavor when you serve the salad later. Fresh pineapple can be a bit juicier, so be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to keep the salad ingredients intact.
Avoid Storing on Lettuce Leaves
While lettuce leaves are a great option for serving pineapple chicken salad, it’s not ideal to store the salad on them. The leaves will wilt and lose their crispness after sitting in the fridge. Instead, store the chicken salad with pineapple in a separate mixing bowl or large bowl to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, place the salad on fresh lettuce or your favorite greens for an easy meal.
Use Within 3 to 4 Days
For the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to enjoy your leftover pineapple chicken salad within 3 to 4 days. After this period, the salad may start to lose its flavor, and the mayonnaise or sour cream dressing could separate, making it less appetizing. If you’re unsure about the freshness, always check for any off smells or changes in texture before serving.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If you made a big batch of pineapple chicken salad and want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it. However, keep in mind that freezing the salad might alter the texture of the mayonnaise and cream cheese, so it may not have the same creamy consistency once thawed. If you decide to freeze it, divide the salad into smaller portions and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost the salad in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving. However, it’s always better to enjoy the pineapple chicken salad fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy with a Fresh Twist
When you’re ready to serve the leftover pineapple chicken salad, you can always freshen it up by adding a little extra lemon juice to brighten the flavors. If the salad looks a bit dry, feel free to mix in a little more mayonnaise or sour cream. You can also add extra nuts like pecans, slivered almonds, or macadamia nuts to bring back some crunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pineapple chicken salad is a wonderfully versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making this chicken salad recipe with rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or baked chicken breast, the combination of fresh pineapple, mayonnaise, and a touch of lemon juice creates a savory and sweet balance that will leave everyone craving more. This slightly tropical chicken salad can be served in a variety of ways—on sandwich bread, croissant, or lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap. With options to add sliced almonds, pecans, or even macadamia nuts for a bit of crunch, it’s easy to customize this dish to suit your tastes. Make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy the flavors melding together over time. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or as part of a summer gathering with pasta salad, fruit salad, or cucumber tomato salad, this dish will definitely stand out as a crowd-pleasing favorite. So grab your large bowl, mix your salad ingredients together, and savor the sweet and savory goodness of this delightful pineapple chicken salad—a truly delicious recipe for any time of the year.
FAQS
Chicken Salad Recipe With Pineapple
Ingredients
- 2 cups prepared rotisserie chicken chopped into small pieces
- ▢1/2 cup crushed pineapple canned in juice not syrup, thoroughly drained/dried
- 1/3 cup honey-roasted almonds see note 1
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery 2 stalks
- 2 tablespoons red onion finely diced
- 1/4 cup mayo full-fat
- 2 tablespoons sour cream fat-free or light is great!
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Croissants or other sandwich bread/rolls; add some lettuce for a sandwich; for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped rotisserie chicken, thoroughly drained crushed pineapple, honey roasted almonds, sliced celery, and red onion. Stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, honey, mustard, lemon juice, and a generous (or to taste) sprinkle of salt and pepper. I add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Pour dressing over salad.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together until combined. Taste and adjust for seasonings (salt, pepper, additional lemon, etc.)
- Layer the chicken salad on a croissant or sandwich bread and add some lettuce. Enjoy immediately.