I recently whipped up this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe, and I have to say, it was an instant hit at my lunch table! I love how it captures all the flavors of a classic grinder sandwich in a creamy, tangy chicken salad form.
Making it was easier than I expected, and it’s perfect for serving with crackers, fresh veggies, or even on a toasted croissant. If you enjoy fruity desserts afterward, I sometimes pair it with a Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe for a sweet contrast.
The combination of tangy dressing, savory deli meats, and fresh veggies makes it irresistible. I couldn’t stop sneaking bites while I was putting it together!
Ingredients
Here’s what I used to create this flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad:
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded – using pre-cooked chicken saves time and keeps it juicy.
- ½ cup pepperoni, chopped – adds a spicy, savory punch.
- ½ cup genoa salami or soppressata, chopped – provides authentic Italian flavors.
- ½ cup provolone cheese, diced – fresh-diced cheese melts better if serving as a sandwich.
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled – adds a tangy, creamy texture.
- ¼ cup banana peppers, chopped – balance the richness with a bit of acidity.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced – for a mild crunch and bite.
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered – juicy sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
Grinder Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise – creamy base that binds everything together.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – fresh is best for maximum flavor.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – gives the salad its signature tang.
- 2 tablespoons banana pepper juice – adds subtle zing.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – gentle garlic flavor without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon oregano – enhances the Italian notes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – balances all flavors.
Note: Several servings as a note of full line under the ingredients quantity.
Variations
You can tweak this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free: Swap mayo with avocado mayo and omit cheeses or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Low-Sugar: Ensure banana pepper juice and mayo are sugar-free.
- Extra Flavor: Add chopped green olives, roasted red peppers, or fresh basil for more depth.
- Protein Boost: Mix in hard-boiled eggs or extra chicken for a heartier salad.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking needed if using rotisserie chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate flavor balance.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to chop veggies, meats, and cheeses.
- Whisk or spoon – for blending the dressing smoothly.
- Airtight container – for storing leftovers or chilling.
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Make the Dressing
I started by mixing the mayonnaise, parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. I tasted it and added a splash more vinegar to get the tang I love. The dressing is key—it brings all the flavors together.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, I tossed together the shredded chicken, diced pepperoni, salami, provolone, feta, banana peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. It looked colorful and fresh—perfect for presentation.
Add the Dressing
Next, I poured most of the dressing over the salad and gently tossed everything to coat. I reserved a little dressing in case it needed extra moisture after chilling. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.
Chill and Serve
I let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. The dressing softens the cheeses and brings all the spices together beautifully. Then I served it with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
I’ve made this salad several times, and here’s what I’ve learned:
- I always shred the chicken finely so it mixes evenly with the dressing.
- I add the banana peppers last if I want extra crunch.
- I taste the dressing before adding it all—sometimes a little more vinegar or pepper makes a big difference.
- I refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container to let the flavors develop overnight.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
This salad is versatile, and presentation matters! I love to serve it in a bowl with a drizzle of leftover dressing on top. For a sandwich twist, pile it on a toasted croissant or baguette. Garnish with extra provolone shreds, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of black pepper for a restaurant-worthy look.
It’s also fantastic with colorful dippers like carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, or club crackers. After a savory meal, it pairs nicely with desserts like the Heart-Shaped Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe for a delightful finish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 320 – perfect for a hearty lunch.
- Protein: 25g – thanks to the chicken and cheeses.
- Carbohydrates: 6g – mostly from veggies, keeping it light.
- Fat: 22g – rich and creamy from cheeses and mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerating
I found this salad tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Flavors meld, making it richer and more vibrant.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this salad because the cheeses and veggies can become watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
No reheating is needed—it’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If using in a sandwich, you can warm the bread or croissant lightly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why I keep coming back to this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad:
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, no cooking required if using rotisserie chicken.
- Flavor-Packed: Tangy, creamy, and savory all in one bite.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a salad, sandwich, or with crackers and veggies.
- Customizable: Swap meats, cheeses, or add-ins to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for grab-and-go lunches.
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is my go-to recipe when I want something flavorful, easy, and satisfying. Each bite reminds me of a classic Italian sandwich but with a refreshing, creamy twist. Whether for a quick lunch, family gathering, or meal prep, it’s always a winner!
