This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of shredded chicken, crunchy veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s colorful, refreshing, and perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
I love how easy it is to toss together and enjoy. You can even serve it in a sandwich or with crackers. Plus, who can resist that fabulous Italian flavor? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have – shredded rotisserie chicken works great for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost!
Bell Peppers: I love the colorful mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for flavor and crunch. If you’re missing one type, feel free to use what’s available or substitute with other veggies like diced carrots or celery.
Cucumber: This adds a nice crunch. If you want a different flavor, try diced zucchini or instead use radishes for a peppery punch.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy taste, but you can swap it out with goat cheese for a creamier option or omit it for a dairy-free version.
Mayonnaise/Dressing: Mix mayonnaise with Italian dressing for extra flavor. To make it healthier, use Greek yogurt instead or a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
How Do I Make the Chicken Salad Super Flavorful?
The key to a great chicken salad is in the seasoning and dressing. Here’s how to amp up the flavor:
- Mix your dressing ingredients well. Combine them in a bowl, adding plenty of Italian seasoning and garlic powder for depth.
- Make sure to taste the salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
For added freshness, consider topping the salad with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill right before serving. Enjoy your homemade salad!
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Italian dressing (or a mix of both)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh basil or romaine lettuce leaves (to serve or add in salad)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad can be whipped up in just about 15-20 minutes. It’s quick to prep, so you can enjoy it for a satisfying lunch or dinner without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, add the diced or shredded cooked chicken along with the chopped red, green, and yellow bell peppers, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and the quartered grape or cherry tomatoes. This colorful mix will make your salad visually appealing!
2. Add Cheese for Flavor:
Next, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese. This adds a delicious tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh veggies.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or Italian dressing) with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This step is key for making a flavorful dressing!
4. Bring It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your salad! Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad chilled over a bed of fresh basil or romaine lettuce leaves. You can also use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a delicious meal on the go!
Enjoy your fresh, colorful, and flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just ensure it’s shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the veggies may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella for a milder taste. You can also omit cheese entirely if you prefer a dairy-free option!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for added protein and swap the mayo with a vegan mayonnaise or a tahini-based dressing to keep it vegan-friendly.