Hawaiian Chicken Salad (Gluten-Free & Whole Health Flexi-Plan)
Description
This Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and nutrient-packed meal combining juicy grilled chicken with sweet pineapple, crisp vegetables, and a light, tangy dressing. It’s naturally gluten-free and perfect for a balanced, whole-health lifestyle—light yet filling, colourful, and bursting with tropical flavour.
Servings
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (grilled or pan-seared, cubed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salad Base
- 3 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks 🍍
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) 🍅
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice 🍋
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Cook chicken:
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until golden and fully done, then cube. - Prepare salad:
In a large bowl, combine greens, pineapple, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and cabbage. - Make dressing:
Whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper. - Assemble:
Add chicken on top of salad and drizzle with dressing. - Serve:
Toss lightly or serve layered. Garnish with herbs and toppings.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for best flavour
- Keep dressing light to maintain freshness
- Add dressing just before serving
Tips
- Add avocado for creaminess 🥑
- Use grilled chicken for smoky flavour 🔥
- Chill ingredients for a refreshing taste
Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 18g
Benefits
- High in protein 💪
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
- Gluten-free and clean eating friendly
- Light yet satisfying meal
Q&A
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Q: Can I meal prep it?
A: Yes, store dressing separately for freshness.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Rice, quinoa, or tortilla wraps.
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Yes, but fresh is more flavorful.