Grilled Chicken Pineapple Salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes   |   Cook Time: 15 minutes   |   Total Time: 35 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled chicken pineapple salad recipe with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado and red onion slices is a bright and refreshing dish bursting with tropical flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender grilled chicken pairs beautifully with sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers for a colorful salad that is both satisfying and nutritious. Finished with a light lime dressing, this easy recipe makes a perfect lunch, dinner, or meal prep option. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this vibrant salad delivers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb / 450 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (3 g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)

For the Salad:

• 6 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens (180 g)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple slices or chunks (225 g)
• 1 large avocado, sliced (200 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1 medium cucumber, sliced (200 g)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (40 g)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (10 g)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (30 ml)
• 1 teaspoon honey (5 ml)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let them rest for 10 minutes to absorb the seasonings.
2. Grill the chicken and pineapple: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Grill the pineapple slices for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly caramelized. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the lettuce, slice the cucumber and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
5. Assemble the salad: Arrange the greens in a large serving bowl. Top with grilled chicken slices, pineapple, cucumber, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
6. Add the dressing: Drizzle the lime dressing evenly over the salad and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley.
7. Serve: Toss gently if desired and serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but fresh pineapple provides the sweetest flavor and the best texture.

Q2: What other proteins work well in this salad?
Grilled shrimp, salmon, or steak are excellent alternatives to chicken.

Q3: Can this grilled chicken pineapple salad recipe with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado and red onion slices be made ahead?
Yes. Store the dressing separately and add the avocado just before serving to keep everything fresh.

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