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Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Salad That Dances with Flavor

Enjoy the vibrant Hawaiian Chicken Salad, a delightful fusion of grilled chicken, juicy pineapple, and fresh veggies.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup light coconut milk Substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.
  • 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice Orange juice works as a delightful alternative.
  • 1 tbsp gluten-free tamari sauce Use regular soy sauce if you're not strict about gluten.
  • 1 unit lime zest Lemon zest can create a similar brightness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Garlic powder can be a quick alternative.
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder Substitute with finely chopped fresh onion if desired.
  • 1/4 tsp cumin Coriander can substitute for a slightly different profile.
  • 1/4 tsp paprika Opt for smoked paprika for added depth.
  • 1/4 tsp ginger powder Freshly grated ginger brings more intensity.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Adjust to your dietary needs.
  • 1/2 tbsp olive oil Avocado oil is a great substitute.
For the Salad
  • 1 large chicken breast Turkey breast is a healthy alternative.
  • 3/4 cup fresh pineapple pieces Mango makes an exciting substitute.
  • 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce Spinach can bring extra nutrients to the mix.
  • 1/2 unit avocado Tahini can be a delicious alternative.
  • 1/2 unit red onion Use green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes Any small tomatoes can work well.
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa Swap for brown rice if you prefer.
  • 1 1/2 tbsp lime juice Substitute with lemon juice if you like.
For the Dressing Enhancement
  • 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil Similar substitutions apply as before.
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro Parsley can be used for a different herb flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp honey Agave or maple syrup are great vegan options.
  • 1/4 tsp salt & black pepper Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Jar
  • Non-stick skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the light coconut milk, pineapple juice, gluten-free tamari, lime zest, minced garlic, onion powder, cumin, paprika, ginger powder, and salt. Whisk until well blended. Add the large chicken breast, ensuring it's coated in the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad
  2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the dressing. In a jar, combine the remaining olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, honey, and an additional pinch of salt and black pepper. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well mixed. Let the dressing set aside for at least 15 minutes.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad
  3. Heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the skillet. Cook for about 6 minutes, flipping once until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad
  4. In the same skillet, add the fresh pineapple pieces and sear them on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly charred and caramelized.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad
  5. On a large platter, create a bed of chopped romaine lettuce. Layer on the sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and cooked quinoa. Top with the sliced chicken and seared pineapple.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad
  6. Drizzle the zesty dressing over the salad, then gently toss everything together to combine the flavors. Serve immediately.
    Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

A longer marination time allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply. Let the chicken rest after cooking to maintain its juices. Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

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