Pineapple Chicken Salad

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A burst of tropical sweetness paired with savory creaminess makes this Pineapple Chicken Salad a standout dish for lunch, brunch, or a light dinner. Juicy chunks of pineapple bring a fresh twist to the classic chicken salad, while crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and a hint of green onion round out the flavor and texture. Nestled between buttery croissants or served atop crisp lettuce, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that balances vibrant, refreshing, and hearty all in one bite.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, packing a picnic, or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Pineapple Chicken Salad is the perfect solution. It comes together effortlessly and delivers flavor far beyond its simple prep. The combination of tangy fruit, tender shredded chicken, and creamy dressing will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken Salad

• Sweet and savory flavor with every bite
• Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Perfect for make-ahead lunches or gatherings
• Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins
• Great served on croissants, bread, or lettuce wraps

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Pineapple Chicken Salad with ease, start by gathering the essential tools:

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl is key for combining all ingredients evenly.
• Sharp knife & cutting board: Crucial for dicing celery, pineapple, and slicing grapes cleanly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate proportions for the dressing and add-ins.
• Rubber spatula or spoon: Ideal for mixing without crushing the ingredients.

Having everything prepped before you begin keeps the process smooth and ensures the best flavor distribution.

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Preparation Tips

For the best results, use cooked and cooled chicken—rotisserie works wonderfully for both flavor and convenience. If using canned pineapple, drain it thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Fresh pineapple adds extra zing, but either version works. Cut all mix-ins like celery and grapes into even, bite-sized pieces to make the salad cohesive in texture. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully. Lastly, toast the croissants lightly if you want a bit of contrast between soft filling and crispy bread.

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Ingredients for this Pineapple Chicken Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
• 1/3 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or slivered almonds for crunch
• Optional: Lettuce leaves, croissants, or sandwich bread for serving

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin with fully cooked chicken. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a depth of flavor, but you can also use poached or baked chicken breasts.

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Step 2: Dice the Fresh Ingredients

Finely chop the celery, green onions, and pineapple. Slice the red grapes in half for even distribution throughout the salad. If you’re adding nuts, give them a rough chop as well.

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Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the ratios to match your preference for creaminess.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, pineapple, grapes, celery, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and gently stir with a rubber spatula or spoon until all ingredients are coated evenly. Fold in nuts if using.

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Step 5: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up slightly, making it ideal for scooping or spreading.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Pineapple Chicken Salad cold, piled high on a freshly baked croissant, between slices of bread, or over a bed of crisp lettuce for a lighter option. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of nuts for presentation if desired.

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Notes

This Pineapple Chicken Salad tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator, as the flavors deepen and the texture improves. It’s highly adaptable, so feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have. Swap grapes for dried cranberries, or use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt if you prefer a tangier taste. Add-ins like diced apples, raisins, or herbs like dill or parsley can also elevate the profile.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using warm chicken: Always let your chicken cool completely before mixing, or the dressing will separate and become runny.
• Overmixing the salad: Stir gently to avoid mashing the grapes and pineapple; you want to keep the texture varied.
• Not draining pineapple: Canned pineapple holds excess juice that can make your salad watery if not drained properly.
• Skipping the chill time: The salad needs time in the fridge to let the flavors combine and balance out.
• Overloading with mayo: Start with less and add more as needed. Too much mayo can overpower the dish.

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Storage Instructions

Store Pineapple Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the freshest flavor, avoid freezing, as mayonnaise-based dressings can separate when thawed. If you’re making sandwiches ahead of time, assemble them right before serving to prevent sogginess, or store filling and bread separately.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugars: 8g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best?

Cooked rotisserie chicken is ideal because it’s moist and flavorful, but any cooked and shredded chicken will work.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after being chilled for a few hours or overnight.

How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Absolutely, just be sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a blend of both for a lighter version.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the salad itself is gluten-free. Just ensure the bread or croissant you use is gluten-free if needed.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Yes, chopped pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds add a nice crunch.

What’s the best way to serve this salad?

Stuffed in croissants, sandwich bread, pita pockets, or spooned over a bed of lettuce.

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Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the traditional chicken salad. With its balance of savory protein, juicy fruit, and creamy dressing, it hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting brunch, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is versatile, easy, and deliciously unique. Give it a try and make it your own with the tips and variations shared above.

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