If you’re craving a bold, savory salad that bursts with Italian flavors and hearty textures, you have to try this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s a lively medley of tender rotisserie chicken, cured Italian meats, and vibrant vegetables all tossed in a zesty, tangy dressing that makes every bite sing. This salad feels like a fresh-from-the-deli experience in your own kitchen, perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or an easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Once you make it, it becomes one of those dishes you’re eager to share with friends—trust me, it’s that good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe. Each component is simple but plays an essential role, bringing just the right balance of creaminess, tang, and savory punch. With easy-to-find deli meats, sharp cheeses, and fresh veggies, you’re all set to build complex layers of flavor effortlessly.
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: This tender chicken forms the hearty base, adding protein and a juicy texture.
- 1/4 lb. salami or soppressata, diced: Choose your favorite for that signature Italian deli spice and chew.
- 1/4 lb. pepperoni, diced: Adds a slightly smoky, peppery kick to the mix.
- 1/4 cup provolone, thick-sliced, diced: Provides melty, mild creaminess to balance the meats.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta: A tangy contrast that brightens every forkful.
- 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, these bring a burst of color and acidity.
- 1/3 cup mild banana peppers: Adds a gentle heat and delightful crunch.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or diced: Sharp and slightly sweet, rounding out the veggie profile.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing, giving the salad its luscious texture.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan: For that unmistakable savory umami pop.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Brings tangy brightness and balance.
- 1-2 tablespoons banana pepper juice (from the jar, to taste): Adds subtle heat and vinegar zing, elevating the dressing.
- 1 tsp oregano: A classic herb that ties all the Italian flavors together.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste: Enhances flavor complexity and adds a fresh bite.
- Salt, to taste (about 1/4 tsp): Balances all the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
This dressing is the magic that brings the entire salad together. Simply combine the mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk everything thoroughly until smooth. Don’t be shy to taste as you go—adjust salt, pepper, or banana pepper juice according to your preferred tang and heat levels. This creamy yet tangy dressing perfectly complements the protein and vegetables, making it irresistible.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, pepperoni, provolone, feta, diced grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and thinly sliced red onion. Each ingredient adds layers of texture and flavor, from the chewy meats to the crunchy vegetables and creamy cheeses. This mixture is what gives the salad its vibrant and satisfying character.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing
Pour most of your freshly made dressing over the combined ingredients. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that every bite is coated with that zesty, creamy goodness. You can add more dressing if you prefer it saucier or keep it lighter depending on your taste. Letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving will help the flavors mingle beautifully.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe with fresh garnishes like chopped basil or parsley for a burst of herbal freshness and a pop of green. A sprinkle of extra grated parmesan on top adds an inviting, salty finish. Thin slices of fresh red chili or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also enhance the dish if you want a touch more heat or silkiness.
Side Dishes
Serve this salad alongside crunchy breadsticks, crispy crackers, or even warm ciabatta to balance the creaminess and tang. A simple side of marinated olives or roasted vegetables pairs incredibly well too, turning your meal into a colorful Italian-inspired feast. For a lighter touch, fresh cucumber or carrot sticks provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe in clear glass jars for an adorable grab-and-go lunch or party appetizer. It also makes an excellent filling for pita pockets or wraps when you want a handheld meal. For dinner parties, serve it atop a bed of mixed greens or arugula with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Its robust flavors often intensify after a day, making your leftovers even more delicious. Stir gently before serving again as the dressing may settle.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and mayonnaise-based dressing, freezing the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is not recommended. The texture of the salad ingredients, especially the cheeses and banana peppers, may deteriorate once thawed, losing that perfect balance you love.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer, you can bring it out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and to let the flavors open up.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken breast will work just fine. Just shred or dice it finely to mimic the texture of rotisserie chicken, and make sure it’s seasoned well to maintain that rich flavor in the salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by omitting the deli meats and substituting with hearty veggies like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or marinated mushrooms. Adding more cheese like mozzarella or extra feta can also help keep the salad satisfying.
How spicy is the salad with banana peppers and pepperoni?
The heat level is quite mild due to the use of mild banana peppers and pepperoni, which typically aren’t very spicy. However, you can adjust the spice by increasing the banana pepper juice or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you crave more kick.
Can I prepare the salad a day in advance?
Yes! Preparations made a day ahead allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep the salad covered in the fridge and give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshness.
What are some good substitutes for provolone cheese?
If you don’t have provolone on hand, mild mozzarella or fontina are excellent cheese alternatives that provide similar texture and flavor, keeping the salad creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is truly a game-changer when you want a quick, flavorful meal packed with classic Italian deli vibes. It blends hearty proteins, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Once you try it, I promise it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation—whether for a casual lunch, a picnic, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Dive in and enjoy all the vibrant flavors and textures this salad has to offer!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish combining shredded rotisserie chicken with a mix of Italian deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it offers the savory taste of an Italian sandwich in salad form, ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
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 mild banana peppers
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 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, to taste
- Salt, to taste (about 1/4 tsp)
Instructions
- Make the dressing: Combine all the dressing ingredients — mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and salt — in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk thoroughly until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary to achieve your preferred balance of tanginess and spice.
- Prepare the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, diced provolone, crumbled feta, diced grape tomatoes, mild banana peppers, and thinly sliced or diced red onion. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Toss with dressing: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss well to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing. Add more dressing if needed to ensure every bite is flavorful but not soggy.
- Storage: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This chicken salad pairs well with fresh veggies, crackers, tortilla chips, or can be used as a hearty sandwich filling.
- Leftover dressing: Store any leftover dressing in a sealed container in the fridge. It can be added back to the chicken salad on subsequent days to refresh the flavors and moisture.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Adjust banana pepper juice amount depending on your heat preference.
- Can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Perfect for meal prep and sandwiches.
- Store salad and dressing separately if planning to keep longer for freshness.
