Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Salad
This fresh and satisfying salad features marinated grilled chicken with tropical flavors, caramelized pineapple slices, crunchy greens, and a zesty honey-lime dressing. It’s healthy, protein-packed, and perfect for summer lunches or light dinners.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 15 mins
Servings: 2 large salads
Ingredients
For the Hawaiian Chicken Marinade:
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp pineapple juice
1 tbsp honey
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp ginger (fresh grated or ground)
Juice of ½ lime
Pinch of black pepper
For the Salad:
4–5 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, or spring mix)
1 cup fresh pineapple rings or chunks (grilled)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ avocado, sliced
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Optional: toasted coconut flakes or macadamia nuts
For the Honey-Lime Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Whisk all marinade ingredients together.
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour marinade over and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken 5–6 mins per side until nicely charred and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Let rest, then slice.
Grill pineapple rings for 1–2 mins per side until lightly caramelized.
3. Make the Dressing:
Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl or shake in a jar.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or platter, arrange salad greens.
Top with sliced grilled chicken, grilled pineapple, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, avocado, and cilantro.
Drizzle with honey-lime dressing and garnish with optional coconut flakes or macadamias.
Serving Tips:
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm.
Great with a side of whole grain bread or brown rice for a more filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, grill the chicken and pineapple in advance, store separately, and assemble just before serving.
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Fresh is best for grilling, but canned rings (in juice, not syrup) work well too—just pat them dry first.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 14g