Hawaiian Chicken Salad

A vibrant and refreshing tropical-inspired salad that brings together juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing over a bed of crisp romaine and fluffy quinoa. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner that satisfies without weighing you down.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 large chicken breast
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3/4 cup fresh pineapple pieces
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup light coconut milk
• 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1 1/2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Seasoning the Chicken:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• Extra pineapple juice for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Pat the chicken breast dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, avocado, pineapple pieces, red onion, cilantro, garlic, lime zest, ginger powder, and onion powder.
3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together coconut milk, pineapple juice, lime juice, tamari, honey, and olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity as preferred.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   Add the cooked quinoa to the salad base. Toss gently to combine.
5. Add the Chicken & Toss:
   Add the sliced chicken on top, then pour the dressing over the entire salad. Toss everything until evenly coated.
6. Garnish & Serve:
   Sprinkle ground cumin over the top for a flavor boost. Drizzle a little extra pineapple juice for a tropical finish if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!