Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

Nothing says summer cooking like a big delicious and filling salad. This Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad is the perfect crowd pleaser or easy weeknight meal. Made with perfectly grilled chicken breasts, caramelized pineapples, fresh and crisp romaine, cucumbers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado, it’s tossed with a sweet and zesty honey-lime dressing. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next barbecue or as a quick dinner option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of grilled chicken and pineapple creates a delightful flavor that’s both sweet and savory.
• Quick Preparation: With just 17 minutes from prep to plate, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal: It works great as a main course or a side dish for gatherings, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh vegetables, this salad balances taste with health.
• Easy Cleanup: One grill and one bowl are all you need, making it simple to prepare without the hassle of many dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides an excellent smoky flavor to the chicken and pineapple that enhances the overall taste.
• Mixing Bowls: Great for combining ingredients and ensuring even mixing of the dressing.
• Whisk: Perfect for creating a smooth dressing without clumps, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp pink sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Pineapple

• 1 Pineapple
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Salad

• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 red onion
• 1/2 cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 avocado

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp pink sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple and Chicken

Start by cutting off the skin of your pineapple. Remove the core and slice into circles. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over pineapple rings and rub on both sides. Pat dry chicken breasts and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle chicken with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to ensure it’s evenly coated.

Step 2: Grill the Ingredients

Turn on your grill to medium-high heat and preheat for about 10 minutes. Place chicken breasts and pineapple slices on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Grill pineapple rings for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

While the chicken and pineapple are grilling, chop your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the onion and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and peel and slice the avocado. Set these prepped veggies aside.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine all dressing ingredients (olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, pink sea salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes). Whisk together until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Once your chicken is done grilling, slice it into strips. In a large serving bowl, layer all salad ingredients starting with chopped romaine followed by cucumber slices, onions, tomatoes, avocado slices, then top with sliced grilled chicken and grilled pineapple.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

When ready to serve, pour dressing over salad components in the bowl. Give it a good toss to coat all ingredients in that delicious honey-lime dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each portion in a bowl for an easy and personal dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy their salad at their own pace.

Family-Style Platter

• Present the salad on a large platter, encouraging guests to help themselves. This communal style adds a fun element to any meal.

With Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Pair with grilled corn for a classic summer taste. The sweetness of the corn complements the tropical flavors of the salad.

As a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with the salad for a low-carb option. This makes for a fun and interactive way to eat.

On Toasted Bread

• Serve the salad atop toasted whole-grain bread for an open-faced sandwich. This adds texture and makes it heartier.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

To ensure your Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pineapple: A sweet, ripe pineapple will enhance the flavor of your salad. Look for one with a sweet aroma and slightly soft skin.
• Marinate chicken: For extra flavor, marinate your chicken breasts in olive oil, lime juice, and seasonings for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding chicken and pineapple; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
• Let it rest: Allow grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and keeps it tender.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs where possible for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey as needed to fit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options to complement this dish.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the tropical flavors.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds an enjoyable crunch that complements the softness of the salad.
3. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers make for a refreshing side that echoes the fruity notes in the salad.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast and are an excellent crunchy companion.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made from cucumbers and yogurt offers a refreshing balance alongside the warm grilled elements.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and variety while being simple to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Always season your chicken and pineapple generously with salt and spices before grilling.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting prep work: Not prepping your veggies in advance can slow you down. Chop all vegetables before grilling so everything is ready when the chicken and pineapple are done.
• Ignoring dressing proportions: Using too much or too little dressing can affect flavor balance. Follow the recipe measurements closely for the perfect blend of sweet and zesty.
• Skipping marination: Failing to let your chicken marinate can reduce flavor. If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling.
• Rushing assembly: Tossing salad ingredients too quickly can lead to uneven distribution. Take your time layering ingredients for a well-balanced salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
• If needed, you can freeze grilled chicken separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and warm chicken until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

You can definitely substitute beef or turkey if you prefer! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What if I don’t have fresh pineapples?

Canned pineapple works as a great alternative! Just ensure it’s packed in juice or water without added sugar.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To create a vegan version, swap chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep individual components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

What should I serve with Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad is truly versatile and bursting with flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences. Experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. This salad features juicy grilled chicken breasts paired with sweet caramelized pineapple, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh cucumbers, red onions, and ripe avocado. Tossed together with a zesty honey-lime dressing, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether served as a main course or a side dish at your next barbecue, this salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
• 1 tsp pink sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 whole pineapple
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for pineapple)
• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 red onion
• 1/2 cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for dressing)
• 1 tsp pink sea salt (for dressing)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (for dressing)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for dressing)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pineapple by slicing into rings and brushing with olive oil. Season chicken breasts with olive oil and spices.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 7 minutes on each side and grill the pineapple for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized.
3. Chop the romaine lettuce, slice the cucumber, onion, and cherry tomatoes, then prepare the avocado.
4. In a bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, pepper.
5. Slice grilled chicken and combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg