Chicken Hawaiian
A tropical-inspired chicken salad combining tender white chicken, crisp celery, sweet apple, juicy pineapple, and plump raisins, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise and toasted sesame seeds. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing addition to any summer gathering, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the drained chicken, diced celery, chopped apple, pineapple chunks, and raisins in a bowl.
- Add two-thirds of the toasted sesame seeds to the mixture and toss to combine.
- Mix mayonnaise with curry powder and add to the bowl; toss until well coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining toasted sesame seeds on top.
- Serve on a lettuce leaf if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt to the mayonnaise mix. You can substitute the apple with grapes for a sweeter twist or use canned chicken in a pinch. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of curry powder can elevate the flavor. This dish is a great option among American recipes, offering a refreshing take on classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Hawaiian salad is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crispy tortilla chips or a light green salad. For a more substantial meal, serve it with steamed rice or over a bed of quinoa. It also makes a great filling for a sandwich or wrap.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, give it a good stir and consider serving it chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the freshness of the ingredients, especially the apple and pineapple.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Hawaiian contains roughly 362 calories, with 7g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken if you prefer fresh over canned. Just ensure it's well-seasoned and cooked through before mixing it in with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the mayonnaise amount or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Additionally, using a low-sodium canned chicken can help lower the sodium content without sacrificing flavor.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For added crunch, consider including diced bell peppers or chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. These will enhance the texture and provide a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
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).