SPREAD LOVE

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Name: Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1/4 lb diced salami or soppressata; 1/4 lb diced pepperoni; 1/4 cup thick-sliced, diced provolone cheese; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes; 1/3 cup mild banana peppers; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp banana pepper juice; 1 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Freshly cracked pepper and salt to taste

If you’re on the lookout for a truly delightful dish that offers a burst of flavor and will tantalize your taste buds, the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is where it’s at. This zesty salad brings together a medley of savory ingredients that promotes vibrant conversations around the dinner table or at picnics in the park. With its delightful textures and a creamy dressing that hugs every ingredient, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds — or thirds.

Why Make This Recipe

Elevates the classic chicken salad by combining rich Italian flavors.
Perfect for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge for days.
Versatile enough to serve on its own, in wraps, or as a party appetizer.

What sets this recipe apart is its ability to fuse the comforting attributes of classic chicken salad with bold Italian ingredients that keep your palate energized.

How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Get ready for a culinary adventure as we dive into the steps for crafting this delightful chicken salad. Assemble your ingredients and let’s get started!

Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing

First up, grab your mixing bowl or liquid measuring cup and combine all the dressing ingredients. You’ll need mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and salt.

Mix everything until well incorporated, and take a quick taste to check the seasoning. Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or even the amount of banana pepper juice to tailor the dressing to your palate.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

Now, let’s put together the star ingredients that will make this salad shine. In a large bowl, combine the following:

2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
1/4 lb. diced salami or soppressata
1/4 lb. diced pepperoni
1/4 cup thick-sliced, diced provolone cheese
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes
1/3 cup mild banana peppers
1/2 red onion (thinly sliced or diced)

Mix all these wonderful ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed. Each bite will be a harmony of flavors and textures.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Once you’ve combined everything, pour most of the dressing over the bowl of toppings. Toss delicately to ensure every piece is coated with that scrumptious dressing. If it seems like it could use a little more moisture, add a bit more dressing until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Store and Serve

Transfer the finished salad into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to four days. This delightful mix doesn’t just taste amazing right away; it gets even better as it sits and the flavors meld. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside an array of sides or atop your favorite sandwich bread.

Storage Tips for Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Keep your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad fresh and delicious with these storage recommendations:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container at 40°F for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the salad for up to 2 months, though some ingredients may not retain their best texture.
Dress Separately: If possible, store the dressing separately to keep the chicken salad from becoming too moist when stored for extended periods.

Serving Suggestions for Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is versatile and can shine in multiple contexts. Here are a few serving ideas to make the most out of this delicious dish:

On a Sandwich: Layer the salad between two slices of crusty Italian bread for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.
With Crackers: Serve the salad with a variety of crackers for a fun appetizer that is sure to impress at any gathering.
In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, scoop the chicken salad into large lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap.
On a Bed of Greens: Create a fabulous salad by placing a scoop of the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with some extra dressing for flair.
Alongside Veggies: Pair the salad with an array of crudités for a colorful and healthy snack platter.

Tips to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Use Quality Meats: Opt for fresh deli meats for better flavor and texture. Explore local delis to find artisanal options.
Experiment with Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, swap it out for mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar.
Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or some spicy pepperoncini for an extra kick.
Think Prepping Ahead: Consider prepping ingredients the night before for a quick assembly in the morning.

Variations or Substitutions

The beauty of the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad lies in its flexibility. If you’re looking to make a few adjustments, consider:

Going Veggie: For a vegetarian delight, swap the meats for chickpeas or marinated artichokes. This will retain the satisfying textures while adding a plant-based twist.
Cheese Options: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try Swiss cheese instead of provolone, which can also add a nutty taste to the mix.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store the dressing separately and mix it in shortly before serving.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs tend to have a richer flavor and can keep the salad moist. Just cook and shred them as you would with the chicken breasts.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini.
Use spicy deli meats.
Drizzle in your favorite hot sauce.

Q: Can I customize the dressing?
A: Certainly! Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version or play with herbs to create a unique taste.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it for parties?
A: Serve in a large bowl surrounded by an assortment of colorful dippers like veggies, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices for an appealing and shareable spread.

Nutritional Information

It’s always important to keep track of what we’re eating. With the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad, you’re not just choosing flavor; you’re incorporating various nutrients. While specific values may vary based on ingredient choices and portions, here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 1g

As a guide, remember to adjust according to your exact ingredients and serving sizes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-dressing: It’s easy to pour too much dressing on before mixing. Start with a little and add more as you go to prevent sogginess.
Skipping Seasoning: Taste the dressing, and adjust seasons to your preference. Believe us, a little extra salt can transform the entire flavor.
Letting It Sit Too Long: While the salad tastes great the next day, prolonged storage can result in mushy ingredients. Consume it within the recommended time frame for the best experience.

Crafting this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is not just easy but enjoyable. The marriage of flavors and textures will bring a lovely twist to your mealtime, making it a hit whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Not only does it invite creativity and customization, but it also guarantees a satisfying meal packed with a taste of Italy that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bring this dish to life — your taste buds will thank you!