If you’ve ever craved the bold, zesty flavors of an Italian sandwich transformed into a fresh, vibrant salad, then you are in for a treat with this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe. It masterfully combines shredded rotisserie chicken, classic Italian deli meats, tangy cheeses, and a punchy homemade dressing that brings it all together like a flavor party in your mouth. This dish is perfect for those days when you want something hearty yet refreshing, combining convenience with authentic Italian-inspired taste that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Simply put, it’s a salad that invites you to dig in and savor every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role. From juicy tomatoes that add a burst of freshness to the rich, savory notes imparted by the salami and pepperoni, these ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of flavors, colors, and textures.
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: The succulent base providing tender protein and effortless flavor.
- 1/4 lb. salami or soppressata, diced: Adds a spicy, aromatic depth typical of Italian sandwiches.
- 1/4 lb. pepperoni, diced: Brings a smoky, slightly spicy kick that complements the other meats.
- 1/4 cup provolone, thick-sliced, diced: Offers a mild, creamy texture with a hint of tanginess.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta: Introduces a salty, crumbly contrast that brightens the salad.
- 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/3 cup mild banana peppers: Provides tangy sweetness and a touch of acidity.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or diced: Imparts a sharp, crisp bite to balance richness.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the dressing to hold all those flavors together.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan: Enhances umami and richness in the dressing.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: The acid that lifts and brightens the entire salad.
- 1-2 tablespoons banana pepper juice (from the jar, to taste): Gives a subtle heat and extra tanginess to the dressing.
- 1 tsp oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds earthy, peppery notes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory punch without overpowering.
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste: Adds sharp warmth and depth.
- Salt, to taste (about 1/4 tsp): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Craft the Lively Dressing
Begin by combining all the dressing ingredients — mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper — in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Give it a good whisk to marry all those flavors. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed; this dressing is the magic glue that brings your salad to life, so don’t be shy about tasting as you go.
Step 2: Mix the Hearty Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and toss together the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, pepperoni, provolone, crumbled feta, grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and red onion. Each ingredient adds its own charm, lending this salad a wonderful medley of textures and tastes that perfectly echo a classic Italian grinder.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour most of the homemade dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything well to ensure every bite is coated with that creamy, tangy goodness. If the salad seems a bit dry, feel free to add a little more dressing — it’s all about finding the perfect balance that suits your palate.
Step 4: Chill and Store
Once combined, transfer your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, making it an ideal make-ahead lunch or quick dinner choice. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully after a few hours or overnight.
Step 5: Save Extra Dressing
Don’t forget to store any remaining dressing separately in a sealed container in the fridge. If your salad starts to dry out, you can always add a little more dressing to refresh it before serving again the next day.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the fresh Italian flavors by sprinkling a bit of chopped fresh parsley or basil on top right before serving. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can add a luscious finish, and if you enjoy a subtle crunch, toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes make wonderful garnishes.
Side Dishes
This salad is versatile enough to shine alongside a variety of sides. Classic crusty Italian bread or buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly, as do crisp vegetable crudites or crunchy crackers. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of minestrone or a warm bowl of creamy polenta.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to dress up your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe? Try serving it stuffed into a soft hoagie roll for a deconstructed sandwich experience or pile it onto lettuce wraps for a lighter option. You can also present it in small mason jars for an attractive, portable lunch perfect for picnics or workdays.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the deli meats and dressing, it maintains flavor and texture well for up to four days. Give it a stir before serving to redistribute any separated dressing.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, which tend to lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. If you want to prep ahead, freeze only the shredded chicken separately before mixing.
Reheating
Since this salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you prefer a warm salad, gently heat the shredded chicken separately and toss it with the salad ingredients just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone and feta give this salad its Italian flair, you can experiment with mozzarella, pecorino, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can omit the provolone, feta, and parmesan, and substitute mayonnaise with a dairy-free or vegan version. The salad will still be delicious with the flavorful deli meats and tangy dressing components.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives to add more crunch and variety. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain that perfect Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe balance.
What can I substitute if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
If rotisserie chicken isn’t available, cooked shredded chicken breast or thigh works just as well. You could even use leftover grilled or baked chicken seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For an extra kick, add some sliced hot cherry peppers, a splash more banana pepper juice, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing. Just a little will go a long way in elevating those zesty Italian flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe feels like a warm hug from your favorite deli tucked into a bowl. It’s quick to assemble yet bursting with layers of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors that make every bite exciting. Whether you’re looking for a delicious lunch, a perfect picnic dish, or a simple dinner, this salad is your new go-to. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your meal rotation!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A flavorful and hearty Italian Grinder Chicken Salad combining shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami, pepperoni, provolone, feta, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or sandwich filling, this salad features a vibrant mix of Italian deli meats and cheeses with fresh vegetables and a tangy red wine vinegar dressing.
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
- Prepare 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 and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, provolone, crumbled feta, grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and sliced or diced red onion. Mix gently to combine evenly.
- Add dressing to salad: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the salad ingredient mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all components well. Add any remaining dressing if the salad seems dry or you prefer a wetter consistency.
- Store and serve: Transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Serve chilled alongside veggies, crackers, tortilla chips, or use it as a flavorful sandwich filling.
- Store extra dressing: Any leftover dressing can be stored separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Add additional dressing to the chicken salad the next day if needed to refresh moisture and flavor.
Notes
- This salad is ideal for meal prep and can be stored refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Adjust the amount of banana pepper juice according to your desired tanginess.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor in the dressing.
- Can be served as a sandwich filling, side salad, or a dip with chips and veggies.
- Freshly cracked pepper enhances the overall taste significantly—don’t skip it.
