1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook the chicken breasts by boiling, grilling, or baking until fully cooked. Let cool and shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the pineapple, bell peppers, red onion, and celery. Slice the green onions and chop the cilantro or parsley, if using.
2. Make the Dressing:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice (or lemon juice), salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more honey. For more tang, add additional lime or lemon juice.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced pineapple, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, celery, almonds (or macadamia nuts), shredded coconut (if using), dried cranberries (if using), green onions, and cilantro (or parsley).
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated with the dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Garnish with additional green onions, cilantro, or nuts if desired.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a burst of sweetness and acidity. If using canned pineapple, ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for this recipe. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can include diced mango or avocado for an extra tropical twist.
- Dressing Variations: For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for added tropical flavor.
This Hawaiian chicken salad is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this tropical treat and bring a taste of the islands to your table!