Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Salad

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

 

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