This Hawaiian-inspired chicken salad offers a delightful tropical twist on the classic dish. Combining tender chicken with flavors like coconut, pineapple, and macadamia nuts, all enveloped in a creamy coconut curry dressing, it brings a taste of the islands to your table. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1. For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup water chestnuts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (no added sugar), drained
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes, toasted (reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish)

2. For the Coconut Curry Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup coconut milk (canned variety for richer flavor)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the chicken breasts, allow them to cool, and dice into ½-inch pieces. Wash and chop the celery. Wash and halve the grapes. Drain the pineapple chunks and water chestnuts.
2. Toast the Coconut Flakes: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the coconut flakes until golden brown. Be attentive to prevent burning. Once toasted, let them cool.
3. Combine Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, chopped celery, drained pineapple chunks, halved grapes, chopped water chestnuts, and chopped macadamia nuts.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, curry powder, soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, and coconut milk until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Salad: Pour the coconut curry dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Gently mix until all components are evenly coated.
6. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the reserved toasted coconut flakes.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 29 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 6 grams
• Cholesterol: 45 milligrams
• Sodium: 190 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 14 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugars: 14 grams
• Protein: 15 grams

The Inspiration Behind Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Hawaiian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, often incorporating fruits, nuts, and bold seasonings that reflect the island’s diverse culinary influences. The Hawaiian Chicken Salad takes inspiration from these flavors, blending tender chicken with juicy pineapple, crunchy nuts, and a creamy coconut curry dressing. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet remains light and refreshing. One of the main highlights of this dish is the use of pineapple, which adds a natural sweetness and a slight tang that perfectly balances the creamy texture of the dressing. Macadamia nuts, another signature ingredient, provide a satisfying crunch and a subtle buttery flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love Hawaiian Chicken Salad, and one of the biggest ones is its versatility. It can be served in various ways, from a traditional salad bowl to a sandwich filling, or even as a topping for fresh greens. Because it’s easy to make ahead, it’s a fantastic option for meal prepping or preparing for a gathering. Another great feature of this dish is that it caters to different dietary preferences. It is naturally gluten-free and can be modified to be dairy-free by choosing the right type of mayonnaise or substituting it with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

Health Benefits of Hawaiian Chicken Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great choice for those who want to maintain muscle mass and stay full for longer periods. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health and aids in digestion due to its natural enzymes. Macadamia nuts provide healthy fats that contribute to heart health and help keep you satiated. The coconut in the dish is another source of good fats, and its unique flavor adds an extra layer of tropical taste. The curry powder used in the dressing not only enhances flavor but also contains anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of turmeric.

Ways to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Salad

One of the best things about this dish is that it can be enjoyed in multiple ways. The most common way to serve it is as a classic salad, simply placed in a bowl and garnished with additional toasted coconut or nuts for extra crunch. However, it can also be used as a sandwich filling between two slices of fresh bread or inside a croissant for a slightly richer experience. For a low-carb option, Hawaiian Chicken Salad can be served in lettuce wraps, providing a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy the dish.

Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Chicken Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in Hawaiian Chicken Salad, it’s important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. If possible, opt for fresh pineapple instead of canned to enhance the natural sweetness and reduce added sugars. Toasting the coconut and macadamia nuts before adding them to the salad will deepen their flavors and provide a better crunch. When it comes to the dressing, adjusting the amount of curry powder can help tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Some people enjoy a more pronounced curry flavor, while others prefer it to be milder.

Storing and Making Ahead

Hawaiian Chicken Salad is an excellent make-ahead dish that stores well in the refrigerator. It can be kept in an airtight container for up to three days. However, if you plan on making it in advance, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to maintain the salad’s texture. If you’re planning to serve this salad for a gathering, you can easily double or triple the recipe to accommodate a larger crowd. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to ensure all the flavors are well combined.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Its tropical ingredients bring a refreshing twist to traditional chicken salad, while its versatility allows it to be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether served in a salad bowl, as a sandwich, or in lettuce wraps, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.