Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad

The Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad is a perfect marriage of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. With juicy pineapple chunks, crisp veggies, and tender shredded chicken all tossed in a creamy honey-mustard dressing, every bite brings you closer to tropical paradise. This salad is quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights, picnics, or meal prep. What makes this salad stand out is its versatility and refreshing taste. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken and packs in colorful nutrients and textures with a satisfying crunch. Whether you serve it as a main dish, a side at a BBQ, or part of a buffet, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and tropical flair.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (rotisserie works great)

• 1 (14-ounce) bag of coleslaw mix

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, red bell pepper, pineapple chunks, green onions, cilantro, and almonds.

3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

4. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve cold, garnished with extra cilantro or sliced almonds if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad

When it comes to flavor-packed meals that are quick, healthy, and undeniably delicious, the Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad stands out as a vibrant crowd-pleaser. This dish combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the savory richness of shredded chicken and the crunchy freshness of slaw, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners, it’s a recipe that brings a bit of island sunshine to your plate no matter the season.

A Taste of the Tropics at Your Table

The Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad is inspired by the bright and refreshing flavors associated with the Hawaiian Islands. Think sun-ripened pineapples, colorful vegetables, and that signature blend of sweet and savory that defines island cuisine. With every bite, you’re transported to a beachside barbecue where fresh produce, zesty marinades, and relaxed, feel-good meals reign supreme.

What makes this dish special is the balance of textures and flavors. Juicy chunks of pineapple add a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken and crisp slaw. Meanwhile, the creamy dressing brings everything together with just the right amount of tang and spice, making it both comforting and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

1. Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the biggest draws of this salad is how fast it comes together. Using cooked or rotisserie chicken drastically cuts down prep time, making this a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy summer afternoons. There’s no stove or oven required, which also makes it a perfect no-cook meal when temperatures soar.

2. Healthy Yet Satisfying
Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a light homemade dressing, this salad is both nutritious and filling. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be modified to suit various dietary needs, such as low-carb, paleo, or even Whole30 with a few simple swaps.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad holds up beautifully in the fridge, especially when the dressing is stored separately and tossed just before serving. It’s an excellent choice for meal preppers looking to stock their fridge with fresh, healthy meals that stay crisp and flavorful over several days.

4. Crowd-Friendly
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, contributing to a potluck, or planning a picnic, this dish is easy to scale up and is always a hit. Its vibrant colors and tropical aroma are instantly appealing, and the flavor profile is universally loved.

Customization Tips for Hawaiian Chicken Slaw

One of the best things about the Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to help you tailor it to your taste:

• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of sriracha to the dressing, or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

• Add more crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like macadamia or almonds, or add seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

• Go low-carb: Use a low-carb coleslaw mix or spiralized vegetables to reduce the carb content without sacrificing crunch.

• Add more greens: Bulk up the salad with fresh greens like baby spinach, arugula, or kale for added nutrients and volume.

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of chicken? This salad works beautifully with shredded pork, shrimp, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.

The Dressing A Tangy Tropical Dream

The dressing is where the magic really happens. It blends creamy mayonnaise with the natural sweetness of honey and the zing of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. This combination gives the salad a flavor profile that’s rich but not heavy, tangy but still sweet the perfect match for the tropical ingredients.

For those looking for healthier alternatives, you can easily use Greek yogurt in place of mayo or swap in a light vinaigrette. The flavor will shift slightly, but the result will still be deliciously refreshing.

When to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad

This salad is ideal for a variety of occasions and seasons. Here are just a few scenarios where it truly shines:

• Summer BBQs and Picnics: This dish is a quintessential warm-weather salad, ideal for outdoor dining.

• Potluck Gatherings: It travels well and can be made in advance, making it a fantastic choice for sharing.

• Weeknight Dinners: Light, filling, and quick to make everything you need after a long day.

• Lunch Meal Prep: Store in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Because it’s so colorful and vibrant, it also makes a great addition to any buffet table, where visual appeal matters just as much as taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Let’s break down why this salad is more than just tasty it’s also a smart choice nutritionally:

• Lean protein: Chicken breast is high in protein and low in fat, helping with satiety and muscle maintenance.

• Vitamins and antioxidants: Bell peppers, cabbage, and pineapple are all loaded with immune-boosting vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

• Healthy fats: If you choose to include almonds or swap to an olive oil-based dressing, you’re also getting heart-healthy fats.

• Low in processed ingredients: Unlike many store-bought salads or fast-food options, this homemade dish keeps it fresh and wholesome.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a meal in itself, but you can also round it out with a few simple additions:

• Serve with crusty bread or Hawaiian rolls for a more filling meal.

• Pair with grilled corn or a fruit platter for a colorful summer spread.

• Serve in lettuce cups for a fun and low-carb presentation idea at parties or potlucks.

• Add a tropical smoothie or iced tea to complete the island-inspired vibe.

How to Store It

To maintain freshness, it’s best to store the components separately if preparing in advance. Keep the slaw and chicken mixture in one container, and the dressing in another. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together. The salad will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days, but if pre-mixed, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to retain that perfect crunch.

Conclusion:

The Hawaiian Chicken Slaw Salad is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be heavy or time-consuming. It delivers the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty meal with the lightness and zest of a tropical vacation. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight staple, a healthy lunch option, or a standout party dish, this recipe checks every box. With customizable ingredients, easy prep, and an explosion of flavor in every bite, it’s no wonder this salad is becoming a favorite for food lovers everywhere.