Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Salad with Pineapple & Avocado
Description
This refreshing Hawaiian-inspired chicken salad combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables in a light lime dressing. It’s high in protein, packed with nutrients, and perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pineapple, avocado, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Arrange the mixed greens on serving plates or in a large serving bowl.
- Spoon the chicken mixture over the greens.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Prep Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Total: 15 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Nutrition Highlights (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Healthy Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
Q&A
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Yes, but drain it well and choose pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup.
Q: What type of chicken works best?
A: Grilled, baked, rotisserie, or poached chicken breast all work well.
Q: How can I make it dairy-free and gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Q: What can I add for extra crunch?
A: Try chopped macadamia nuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or toasted coconut flakes.