Chicken and Pineapple Salad Recipe: A Refreshing, Flavorful Meal for Hot Days
When the weather heats up and you crave something cool, light, and refreshing, this Chicken and Pineapple Salad is the perfect dish. Bursting with flavor, this simple yet satisfying salad combines juicy chicken breast with the sweetness of pineapple and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Itโs an easy-to-make recipe that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Serve this salad with a side of crispy potato chips and a cold glass of grape or cran-raspberry juice for a complete, delightful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, cooked and chopped | 4 breasts (about 2 cups) |
| Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) | 2 cups |
| Celery, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Green onion, chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Low-fat mayonnaise | 4 tbsp |
| Major Grey chutney | 1 tbsp |
| Lime rind, finely grated | 4 tsp |
| Lime juice | 1/2 tbsp |
| Curry powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt (optional) | To taste |
| Crushed peanuts (optional) | For garnish |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg |
| Sodium | 149 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugars | 32.1 g |
| Protein | 36.5 g |
Preparation Instructions
-
Combine the main ingredients:
Start by tossing the cooked chicken breast, pineapple chunks, chopped celery, and green onions together in a large mixing bowl. This forms the base of your salad and brings together the savory chicken with the sweet fruit and crisp vegetables. -
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the finely grated lime rind, fresh lime juice, Major Grey chutney, and curry powder. The chutney adds a sweet and tangy flavor, while the curry powder provides a warm, aromatic spice that brings depth to the dish. -
Incorporate the mayonnaise:
Whisk in the low-fat mayonnaise into the lime and chutney mixture, creating a creamy dressing that will coat the chicken and vegetables beautifully. The mayonnaise helps balance the zesty flavors, making the salad smooth and rich without being overly heavy. -
Combine the salad and dressing:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and pineapple mixture. Gently toss to ensure that all ingredients are well-coated with the flavorful dressing. -
Chill before serving:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dish a nice, chilled freshness. -
Garnish and serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle a few crushed peanuts over the salad for a delightful crunch and additional flavor. If you prefer, you can also add a pinch of salt to taste for an extra boost of seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
-
Pair with beverages:
Serve this refreshing chicken and pineapple salad with a glass of grape or cran-raspberry juice for a slightly tart, sweet accompaniment that complements the dish perfectly. -
Side dish ideas:
This salad pairs wonderfully with crispy potato chips or a light, green side salad. For an extra crunch, you could add some toasted nuts or seeds on top.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes of prep time, this chicken and pineapple salad is perfect for a busy day or when you want a fuss-free, yet impressive dish.
- Healthy and Refreshing: The combination of lean chicken breast, fresh pineapple, and crunchy vegetables makes for a low-fat, protein-packed meal that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The sweet and tangy dressing, infused with curry powder and chutney, adds a unique and bold flavor profile thatโs sure to stand out at your next meal.
Enjoy this vibrant salad as a light lunch, a picnic dish, or a simple dinner option when youโre craving something fresh and flavorful!
