Description
Hawaiian Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the tropics to your table. Ideal for sunny picnics or casual dinners, this gluten-free salad features tender marinated chicken, juicy pineapple, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. With a zesty dressing that enhances every bite, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns with your health goals. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, it’s a versatile meal option that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to other dishes. Elevate your dining experience with this nutritious choice packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup light coconut milk
- 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp gluten-free tamari sauce
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ginger powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large chicken breast
- 3/4 cup fresh pineapple pieces
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/2 red onion
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 1/2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
- 1/2 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl, coat the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (preferably overnight).
- Prepare the dressing: Combine dressing ingredients in a jar with a lid and shake well. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat. Cook marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Let it rest before slicing.
- Sear pineapple: In the same skillet, sear pineapple pieces until golden brown.
- Assemble salad: On a serving platter, layer romaine lettuce, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, quinoa, sliced chicken, and seared pineapple.
- Serve: Drizzle with dressing and toss gently if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added crunch, include nuts or seeds on top. Customize with other fruits like mango or swap quinoa for brown rice. Ensure to use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor.