Sweet, tangy, and refreshing — this Hawaiian chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch or a summer picnic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy — ready in under an hour.

• Tropical twist with pineapple for natural sweetness.

• Perfect for meal prep or picnic-ready servings.

• Light and refreshing for warm weather lunches.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1 cup pineapple chunks

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together shredded chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Toss and Chill

Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.

• Add cashews or sliced almonds for extra crunch.

• Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

• Swap pineapple for mango for a different tropical twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s best served fresh; freezing can change the texture of the pineapple and mayonnaise.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves prep time.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a sweet, tangy, and refreshing dish that’s ideal for quick lunches, picnics, or summer gatherings. The combination of chicken, pineapple, and a zesty lime dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.