Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt/mayo blend)
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts, lightly toasted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Ensure all ingredients are properly prepared; the chicken should be shredded or diced, the pineapple must be completely drained of excess juice, and the macadamia nuts should be roughly chopped.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, and kosher salt until smooth and well-combined, creating the dressing base.
- Step 3: Add the shredded chicken, drained crushed pineapple, chopped celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Stir in the toasted macadamia nuts, mixing gently just until they are dispersed throughout the salad to maintain their crunch. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Hawaiian chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld before serving on croissants, lettuce cups, or crackers.
Notes
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; note that the macadamia nuts may lose some of their initial crunch after the first 24 hours.
- Do not attempt to reheat this salad, as it is designed to be served chilled; for the best flavor, allow the finished salad to rest in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- For a fun, tropical presentation, serve generous scoops inside hollowed-out miniature pineapple halves or atop crispy fried plantain chips.
- To prevent a watery salad, ensure you press the crushed pineapple very firmly through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth until absolutely no excess liquid remains before mixing it into the dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American