If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, mouthwatering salad that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender shredded chicken and a delightful mix of colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers, all perfectly seasoned with classic Italian herbs and cheeses. It’s a quick, wholesome meal that’s as charming on a busy weeknight as it is impressive at a casual get-together. Once you try this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe, it might just become your go-to salad for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beauties of the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the final flavor profile. From crunchy vegetables to rich cheeses, every element adds something unique, creating a well-balanced dish that excites your palate and brightens your plate.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: The hearty protein base that keeps this salad satisfying.
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a gentle bite and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced: Provides refreshing crunch and moisture.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings sweetness and juiciness to every bite.
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced: Adds a smoky depth and tender texture.
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced: Offers a salty punch that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup provolone cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully into the mix, lending creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Sharp and nutty, it gives the salad an authentic Italian flair.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Provides the perfect acidic balance to the richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Makes the dressing silky and ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses herby, classic Italian notes throughout.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet and fragrant touch to the salad.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for highlighting the flavors of every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by tossing the shredded chicken, thinly sliced red onion, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced roasted red peppers, black olives, provolone cheese, and parmesan cheese in a large bowl. This vibrant mix provides a fantastic balance of textures and colors that make the salad feel fresh and exciting even before the dressing is added.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper until everything is emulsified and glossy. This tangy and herbaceous dressing brings all the individual ingredients together, enhancing their flavors without overpowering the delicate chicken.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, then toss gently but thoroughly. Make sure every bit of chicken and vegetable is lightly coated with the dressing so each bite reveals the perfect harmony of flavors you’re aiming for with this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like for an extra pop of green and freshness. You can enjoy this salad right away or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to meld the flavors even further. Either way, it’s delicious and ready to impress.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a wonderful garnish, adding both color and a gentle herbaceous note that complements the existing flavors. You could also add freshly cracked black pepper on top for a subtle spice kick or a few extra shreds of parmesan to elevate the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, serve this salad alongside a crusty baguette or a warm garlic bread for dipping up any extra dressing. A light soup or a simple bowl of marinated olives would also pair beautifully, keeping with the Italian theme without overwhelming the fresh and vibrant salad.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, consider serving this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe inside hollowed-out mini bell peppers or atop toasted Italian bread slices for an open-faced salad sandwich. Another fun way is to layer it in a mason jar for a portable, pretty presentation that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors actually deepen over time, but for the best texture, add any crunchy ingredients like cucumbers just before serving if you’re preparing it ahead.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and cheese, freezing is not recommended for this salad. The texture of the crunchy veggies and the delicate cheeses would suffer upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer your chicken warm, you can gently heat the shredded chicken separately, then combine it with the chilled salad just before serving to keep the textures intact.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut when making the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe, as it’s already cooked and flavorful, saving you time while maintaining deliciousness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it without bread or with gluten-free bread options if you want to keep the meal gluten-free.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Definitely. While provolone and parmesan provide classic Italian flavors, you can swap them for mozzarella, asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist on the salad.
How long can I keep the salad before serving?
It’s best consumed within 1–2 days if stored in the refrigerator. The freshness of the vegetables and the crispness are at their peak during this time.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to customize! Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some chopped carrots can add different textures and flavors, making this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe your own signature dish.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, simple yet packed with layers of flavor. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or feeding friends, it checks all the boxes for a delightful, easy-to-love meal. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A fresh and flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken breast mixed with vibrant veggies, olives, cheeses, and a zesty herb vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, thinly sliced red onion, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced roasted red peppers, black olives, shredded provolone, and grated parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk the red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper together until the dressing is well emulsified and flavorful.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is coated evenly with the vinaigrette.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the salad for added color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best freshness or refrigerate to enjoy later.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Shredded cooked chicken can be substituted with leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for optimal flavor.
- Make sure the vegetables are fresh and well-drained to avoid watery salad.
