Aloha Chicken Salad
A vibrant and tropical chicken salad combining sweet pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, and crunchy pecans, perfect for a light, refreshing meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except lettuce leaves in a large bowl; toss until well mixed.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator.
- Serve on lettuce leaves if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred. To add some heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. Make sure to drain the canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid in the salad. This Aloha Chicken Salad is not only refreshing but also pairs beautifully with Barbecue Chicken With A Twist for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner option. Pair it with crusty bread or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving it alongside Gramma Martin'S Casserole(Pastor Martin'S Favorite) for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can lose its crunch over time, so consider adding fresh grapes or nuts just before serving for added texture. Avoid freezing, as the ingredients may change in texture once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aloha Chicken Salad contains roughly 1056 calories, with 8g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Aloha Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best flavor and texture, add the grapes and nuts right before serving.
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative. This will provide a similar texture while keeping the salad delicious and filling.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Aloha Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free as all the ingredients listed are free from gluten. Always check the labels of your mayonnaise and any canned products to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).