Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Avocado, Tomatoes, and Cucumber
Ah, the luscious flavors of the Hawaiian islands in a refreshing and satisfying chicken salad – this is a dish that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumber creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will have you craving more.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is not just a delicious meal, but a true culinary delight. The unique blend of ingredients, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Hawaii, sets it apart from traditional chicken salads. The avocado adds a luxurious creaminess, the tomatoes provide a juicy burst of sweetness, and the cucumber offers a refreshing crunch – together, they create a harmony that will have you coming back for seconds.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main dish, a side salad, or even as a sandwich filling – it’s the perfect option for any occasion, from a light lunch to a backyard barbecue. Plus, with the option to prepare it in advance, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad becomes a true time-saver, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort.
🥄 Recipe Essentials
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh vegetables creates the tropical-inspired flavor profile that has made chicken salad recipes perennially popular.
👨🍳 Cooking Instructions
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
• Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Step 5: Serve the Hawaiian Chicken Salad chilled, either on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or on its own as a refreshing main or side dish.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Chilling time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken salad which can take up to 30 minutes to prepare, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 453mg
These Hawaiian Chicken Salad recipes provide approximately 40% of your daily protein requirements and 15% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the cherry tomatoes or replace them with sliced cucumber for a lower-carb option.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free mayonnaise or vegan yogurt to make the recipe dairy-free.
• Added protein: Mix in cooked quinoa or chickpeas to boost the protein content.
• Boost vegetables: Add more diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or diced celery for an extra vegetable boost.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Hawaiian Chicken Salad.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair it with whole-grain crackers or slices of toasted bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Complement the salad with a side of fresh pineapple or a tropical fruit salad for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal.
• For a backyard barbecue or picnic, serve the salad in lettuce cups or on small slider buns for a portable and handheld option.
❓ FAQs
How long can I store the Hawaiian Chicken Salad in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The avocado may start to brown a bit, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use cooked and shredded turkey, tuna, or even grilled shrimp in place of the chicken. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but the overall dish will still be delicious.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Hawaiian Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers, bread, or in lettuce cups if you have a gluten sensitivity or allergy.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Hawaiian Chicken Salad a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, except the avocado, and refrigerate. Add the diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
How can I add more flavor to the salad?
Try adding a teaspoon of finely grated ginger, a sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts, or a dash of pineapple juice to the dressing for an extra burst of Hawaiian-inspired flavor.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Hawaiian Chicken Salad recipes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a light and refreshing main dish or a flavorful side salad, they’re sure to impress with their creamy, crunchy, and tropical-inspired profile. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Hawaiian Chicken Salad recipes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why not transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise and give this delightful dish a try today?
