Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of all your favorite Italian sub fixings swirling together in one unbelievably satisfying salad, the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is about to make your day. Zesty, creamy, loaded with hearty rotisserie chicken and savory deli meats, this salad packs all the bold flavors and crunchy, tangy excitement you crave in every forkful. Imagine the vibrant colors and the mingling of textures: ribbons of red onion, the pop of grape tomatoes, briny banana peppers, and a shower of cheese, all coated in a luscious, herby dressing. It’s more than a salad—it’s an experience you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Italian Grinder Chicken Salad irresistible is its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one contributes a unique flavor, texture, or splash of color, so don’t skimp or skip! Here’s how these standouts come together:
- Rotisserie chicken (2 cups, shredded): Juicy chicken gives the salad body and heartiness.
- Salami or soppressata (1/4 lb, diced): Provides a punchy, peppery depth—choose your favorite for a fun twist!
- Pepperoni (1/4 lb, diced): Adds a smoky-savory spice reminiscent of your favorite Italian slice shop.
- Provolone cheese (1/4 cup, thick-sliced & diced): Lends creamy richness and that signature melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- Crumbled feta (1/4 cup): Tangy and salty, it balances the richness of the meats.
- Grape tomatoes (2/3 cup, diced): Fresh and juicy, they brighten every bite.
- Banana peppers (1/3 cup, mild): Zesty, tangy, and colorful—these are the soul of Italian subs!
- Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced or diced): Brings sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base for a dreamy, cohesive dressing.
- Grated parmesan (1/4 cup): Nutty and robust, for umami depth in every bite.
- Red wine vinegar (3 tbsp): Cuts through the richness and pulls all the flavors together.
- Banana pepper juice (1–2 tbsp, to taste): Adds a tangy zing that makes the dressing pop.
- Oregano (1 tsp): Classic Italian herb that gives the mix its familiar grinder flavor.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Delivers subtle savoriness without overpowering.
- Freshly cracked pepper: For a warm, peppery finish—crack it fresh for best results.
- Salt (about 1/4 tsp, to taste): Essential to enhance all the other flavors—taste and adjust as needed.
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Step 1: Whisk Up the Zesty Dressing
Start your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad adventure by whisking together all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, cracked pepper, and salt. Stir vigorously until smooth and creamy; give it a little taste, and if you’re a fan of extra tang, splash in a touch more banana pepper juice. This dressing is what ties all those bold salad flavors together!
Step 2: Chop and Combine All the Goodies
In the spirit of an overflowing Italian grinder, it’s time to prep the meats, cheeses, and veggies. Shred your rotisserie chicken so every bite gets a bit, then dice up your salami (or soppressata), pepperoni, provolone, and gather the feta. Slice up those tomatoes, red onion, and banana peppers. Toss everything into a big bowl—you want variety in each mouthful!
Step 3: Dress and Toss to Bring It All Together
Pour most of the dressing over the bowl of mix-ins. Using salad tongs (or very clean hands!), toss until everything is thoroughly coated and shiny. If it looks a little dry or you love extra decadence, drizzle on the remaining dressing. The dressing should hug every ingredient just enough to unite their flavors while keeping the salad lively, not soggy.
Step 4: Chill, Serve, and Savor
Let your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes if you can—this rest time lets the flavors mingle in that magical deli way. To serve, spoon into bowls or pile high onto sandwich buns, and get ready for some serious flavor fireworks!
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Garnishes
Dress it up with extra banana peppers, freshly cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for pop and brightness. A few shavings of parmesan or crumbled feta on top will have everyone swooning, and a squeeze of fresh lemon is a delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This vibrant salad craves simple, satisfying sides. Think lightly toasted baguette slices, crunchy breadsticks, or an herby focaccia. For healthier crunch, serve with crisp veggie sticks or top with toasted chickpeas for crouton-like flair.
Creative Ways to Present
The Italian Grinder Chicken Salad isn’t just for bowls! Spoon it into warm pita pockets, roll it up in wraps, pile it high atop crunchy lettuce leaves for a low-carb riff, or serve it as a hearty dip with crackers for your next game night or picnic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Italian Grinder Chicken Salad in an airtight container, and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 4 days. You’ll notice the flavors deepen, and it stays surprisingly crisp thanks to the sturdy veggies and meats.
Freezing
While this salad is best fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch, though the texture of the veggies and cheeses may change a bit upon thawing. If you do freeze, use a tight-sealing container, and gobble it up within a month for optimum flavor.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold, but if you’re craving something warmer, scoop a serving into a skillet and gently warm it through—just enough to release some of that melty provolone charm! Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the mayonnaise from separating.
FAQs
What makes Italian Grinder Chicken Salad different from other chicken salads?
It’s the bold Italian deli flavors—thanks to the blend of cured meats, zesty banana peppers, oregano, and that creamy, punchy dressing. It’s heartier, more colorful, and bursting with personality compared to classic chicken salad.
Can I make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge so the flavors can meld. Just stir before serving and add a little extra dressing if needed to refresh it.
How can I lighten this salad up?
For a lighter Italian Grinder Chicken Salad, use light mayonnaise or swap in some Greek yogurt for part of the mayo. You can also boost the veggie ratio and use turkey or chicken salami for less fat.
What are the best breads to serve with this salad?
Classic grinder rolls, ciabatta, or sliced baguette make perfect partners. For a lighter touch, try whole-wheat pitas, lettuce wraps, or crisped-up sourdough.
Can I customize the meats and cheeses?
Definitely! Play with mortadella, capicola, or even cooked bacon. Swap in shredded mozzarella, fontina, or sharp cheddar if you’re feeling creative—Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is all about celebrating your favorite flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your lunch routine with something bold, crave-worthy, and seriously fun to eat, give Italian Grinder Chicken Salad a whirl. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, endlessly customizable, and packed with nostalgia and flavor. Let your inner sandwich lover shine—and enjoy every irresistible bite!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with rotisserie chicken, salami, pepperoni, cheeses, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 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)
For the Dressing:
- 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
- Make the Dressing: Combine all the dressing ingredients in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Taste and adjust if needed.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients: rotisserie chicken, diced deli meats, red onion, tomatoes, banana peppers, and cheeses.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour most of the dressing over the bowl of toppings, toss well to coat, adding the remaining dressing if needed.
- Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Serve with veggies, crackers, tortilla chips, or on a sandwich.
- Leftover Dressing: If there’s dressing leftover, store it in a sealed container in the fridge and add it to the chicken salad the next day if needed to rehydrate it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Italian Grinder Chicken Salad, Chicken Salad, Italian Salad, Grinder Salad, Mediterranean Salad
