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Hawaiian Chicken Salad

Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Salad for a Refreshing Meal

This Hawaiian Chicken Salad combines vibrant tropical flavors for a nutritious, gluten-free meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1 cup Light Coconut Milk Can substitute with unsweetened almond milk.
  • 1 tablespoon Gluten-Free Tamari Sauce Use soy sauce if not strictly gluten-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Lemon can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Jarred minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Avocado oil is a substitute.
Salad
  • 1 large Chicken Breast Choose organic if possible.
  • 1 cup Fresh Pineapple Pieces Canned pineapple can work in a pinch.
  • 4 cups Chopped Romaine Lettuce Any leafy greens can be used.
  • 1 medium Avocado Substitute with tahini for nut-free.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Sweet onion can soften the flavor.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes are a good alternative.
  • 1 cup Cooked Quinoa Substitute with brown rice for a lower carb option.
  • 1/4 cup Finely Chopped Cilantro Mint can be used for an alternative flavor.
Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup is a vegan substitute.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Jar

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a bowl, whisk together light coconut milk, gluten-free tamari sauce, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, onion powder, cumin, paprika, ginger powder, and salt to create a flavorful marinade. Add the large chicken breast to the bowl, making sure it’s well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dressing for your Hawaiian Chicken Salad. In a jar, mix together honey, lime juice, olive oil, and cumin, sealing the jar tightly. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are well combined. Allow the dressing to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
  3. After marinating, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken breast into the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. In the same skillet, add fresh pineapple pieces and sear on medium heat until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
  5. On a large platter, layer chopped romaine lettuce, diced avocado, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and cooked quinoa. Artfully arrange the sliced chicken and seared pineapple on top.
  6. Drizzle the dressing generously over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1saladCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and avoid overcooking. Use fresh ingredients for the best results.

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