Imagine a tropical paradise on your plate - where juicy grilled chicken meets sweet pineapple, crisp greens, and a tantalizing Hawaiian-inspired marinade. This Maui Grilled Chicken Salad isn't just a meal; it's a culinary vacation that promises to whisk you away to the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii with every refreshing, flavor-packed forkful. Whether you're craving a light lunch or a vibrant dinner, this recipe delivers an explosion of flavors that will make your palate dance with excitement.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup vinaigrette dressing
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to create a marinade for the chicken.
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Discard remaining marinade.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- While chicken is cooking, prepare salad base by arranging mixed greens on a large serving platter.
- Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then slice into thin strips.
- Top mixed greens with diced pineapple, sliced almonds, and sesame seeds.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
- Drizzle vinaigrette dressing over the entire salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Maui Grilled Chicken Salad.
Tips
- Marinate Smart: Let chicken marinate for no more than 15 minutes to prevent the soy sauce from making the meat too salty.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Grill Technique: Pat chicken dry before grilling to achieve a beautiful caramelized exterior and prevent steaming.
- Let It Rest: Always let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness and redistribute internal moisture.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the most vibrant flavor and texture in your salad.
- Dressing Tip: Add vinaigrette just before serving to keep salad greens crisp and prevent wilting.
- Customize: Feel free to add extra toppings like red onions or mandarin oranges for more tropical flair!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
