Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a delicious and vibrant dish that combines shredded chicken with flavorful ingredients. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and brings a taste of Italy right to your table. This salad is easy to make and offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great way to use leftover cooked chicken, and it’s packed with protein and fresh vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Plus, it’s versatile— you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This salad is sure to please everyone!
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup sliced deli meats (salami, ham, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or provolone)
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce or greens for serving
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, deli meats, tomatoes, cheese, red onion, and olives.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Italian dressing until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over a bed of lettuce or greens.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great lunch on its own, or you can pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy it at a picnic, a potluck, or simply at home with family and friends.
How to Store Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it crisp, consider storing the dressing separately until you are ready to serve.
Tips to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad! Try adding different types of meats or cheese, and switch up the dressing for a unique twist. For a lighter version, you can use spinach or arugula instead of lettuce.
FAQs
1. How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad a day in advance without dressing it. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
2. Can I use other types of dressing?
Yes! You can use any dressing you like, but Italian dressing adds a nice flavor to the salad.
3. What are some good sides to serve with this salad?
You can pair it with a simple soup, breadsticks, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
