Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Salad Recipe – Tangy Summer Delight
When the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, a refreshing, vibrant salad can elevate any meal. The Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of tropical sweetness, savory grilled chicken, and the sharp bite of Thai red chilies, all brought together with a tangy dressing. Whether you’re preparing a dish for a family gathering or impressing guests at a summer BBQ, this easy-to-make salad is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts, chopped | 1 cup |
| Pineapple, cut into 1-inch strips | 2 cups |
| Arugula leaves | 1 cup |
| Thai Red chilli (Bird’s Eye Chilli) | 2, finely chopped |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons (for roasting) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for dressing) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, crushed | 2 cloves |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Tabasco Original – Hot Sauce | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients and chopping them as required. Make sure the chicken is chopped into bite-sized pieces, the pineapple is sliced into 1-inch strips, and the Thai red chilies are finely chopped.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil and place the chopped chicken breasts on the pan. Season with salt to taste. Cook the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside. If you don’t have a grill pan, you can also use a skillet to pan-roast the chicken.
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Grill Pineapple: In the same grill pan, heat the second teaspoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the pineapple strips and grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the pieces are slightly charred and have grill marks. This caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple and enhances its sweetness. Once done, remove the pineapple from the grill pan and add it to the bowl with the cooked chicken.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the crushed garlic, honey, Tabasco sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil to the mixture and combine well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Combine and Serve: Into the bowl with the grilled chicken and pineapple, add the finely chopped Thai red chilies. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently. Finally, add the fresh arugula leaves and mix once more until well combined.
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Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a large serving bowl or individual plates and serve immediately. This Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Salad makes an excellent appetizer or a light main dish for warm weather dining.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet, caramelized pineapple. The spicy Thai red chilies add a subtle heat, balanced by the smooth honey and tangy Tabasco dressing. With the fresh crunch of arugula, this salad not only bursts with flavor but is also a healthy and vibrant dish perfect for any season.
The addition of protein from the chicken and the zesty dressing makes this a filling salad while keeping things light and refreshing. It’s the perfect choice for a summer gathering or a nourishing weeknight meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~450mg |
This Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Salad is simple, nutritious, and full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements makes this dish one you’ll want to revisit often, whether for a casual lunch or as part of a more festive spread. Try it today and bring the bright, sunny flavors of summer to your table!
