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Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe

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4 from 14 reviews

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish combining tender cooked chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy, herby dressing. Perfect as a light meal or picnic option, this salad can also be served on sub rolls to recreate the classic Italian grinder sandwich experience with a healthy twist.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup Black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
  • Sub or hoagie rolls, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, cubed provolone cheese, and sliced black olives. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined to create a flavorful dressing.
  3. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned.
  4. Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt and pepper if needed to suit your personal preference.
  5. Serve: Enjoy the salad chilled or at room temperature. For a sandwich twist, serve the salad inside sub or hoagie rolls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for added freshness and presentation.

Notes

  • This salad can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.
  • For a lighter, healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
  • Using fresh basil as garnish adds a lovely aroma and subtle flavor to complement the salad.
  • To keep the salad crisp, add the dressing just before serving if storing prepared ingredients separately.