Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines shredded rotisserie chicken with classic Italian deli meats, cheeses, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic, it offers a delightful mix of textures and robust flavors reminiscent of an Italian sandwich, but in salad form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- 1/4 lb. salami or soppressata (diced)
- 1/4 lb. pepperoni (diced)
- 1/4 cup provolone, thick-sliced (diced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta
- 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes
- 1/3 cup banana peppers (mild)
- 1/2 red onion (sliced thin or diced)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1–2 tablespoons banana pepper juice from the jar (to taste)
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Freshly cracked pepper
- Salt to taste (about 1/4 tsp)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and salt in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Mix thoroughly, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve a balanced, tangy flavor.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, diced provolone, crumbled feta, diced grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and thinly sliced or diced red onion. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss well to ensure all components are coated thoroughly. Add the remaining dressing gradually if the salad needs more moisture or flavor.
- Store Properly: Transfer the prepared salad into an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad chilled, paired with fresh vegetables, crackers, tortilla chips, or enjoyed as a sandwich filling. If you have leftover dressing, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge and add it to the salad before serving again to rehydrate any absorbed moisture.
Notes
- The salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.
- You can adjust the level of heat by using more or less banana pepper juice.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor in the dressing.
- Feel free to substitute or add other Italian deli meats based on your preference.
- The salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy breads, crackers, or as a hearty sandwich filling.
Keywords: Italian chicken salad, rotisserie chicken salad, deli meat salad, Italian dressing, easy lunch recipe, no-cook salad
