Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad. It’s a delightful fusion of Italian herb flavors and the richness of grinder sandwiches, all in a healthy, crunchy salad bowl. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with protein and fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.
- Versatile enough to be a main dish or a side salad.
- Rich in Italian flavors that will transport your taste buds.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncinis
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and prepare them according to the list. Make sure your chicken is shredded, veggies are sliced, and cheese is grated.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncinis, black olives, and romaine lettuce.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lower-calorie version, use a light Italian dressing. Learn more about choosing healthy salad dressings.
- If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
- For extra crunch, you can add some nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Variations
- Vegetarian Italian Grinder Salad: Replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans.
- Spicy Italian Grinder Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free croutons or omit them altogether.
Required Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs for tossing
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it for longer.
Suggested Pairings
This salad pairs wonderfully with a warm garlic bread or alongside a hearty soup like minestrone.
Pro Tips
- For the freshest salad, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Learn how to store cheese properly.
- Toast your croutons for extra flavor by tossing them with a bit of olive oil and Italian seasoning before baking.
- Chill your serving bowls in the fridge to keep the salad fresh and crispy longer.
FAQ
Can I use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, grilled chicken adds a fantastic smoky flavor to this salad.
What can I use instead of pepperoncinis?
If pepperoncinis are not available, banana peppers are a great alternative.
How do I make this salad vegan?
Omit the chicken, use vegan cheese, and select a vegan Italian dressing.