A refreshing blend of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, juicy grapes, and crisp vegetables, this tropical chicken salad offers a perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours. Ideal for warm-weather meals, it is light yet satisfying, making it a versatile choice for lunch, dinner, or a picnic spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad delivers a vibrant burst of flavour in every bite. The sweetness of pineapple and grapes pairs beautifully with the savoury chicken, while a creamy dressing brings all the elements together. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and can be served as a main or side dish. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast, diced
Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Red grapes, halved
Cherry tomatoes
Lettuce leaves
Red onion, finely chopped
Mayonnaise or yoghurt-based dressing
Salt and pepper

directions

Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken and chopping the fruits and vegetables.
In a large bowl, combine chicken, pineapple, grapes, tomatoes, and red onion.
Add mayonnaise or yoghurt dressing and mix gently to coat evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves or in individual bowls.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavour.
Swap grapes for mango or mandarin oranges.
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yoghurt for a lighter option.
Add toasted almonds or cashews for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.

Is it better to use fresh or canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple offers the best flavour, but canned pineapple is convenient and works well too.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

What type of grapes is best?

Seedless red or green grapes are ideal for convenience and sweetness.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free dressing or vinaigrette.

How can I make the dressing healthier?

Use low-fat Greek yoghurt or a light vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise.

Can I serve this salad warm?

It is traditionally served cold, but you can use warm chicken if desired.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers.

Can I freeze tropical chicken salad?

No, freezing affects the texture of the fresh ingredients.

Is this salad suitable for weight-loss diets?

Yes, if made with lean chicken and a light dressing, it is nutrient-rich and low in calories.

Conclusion

Tropical Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Grapes is a light, refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. It combines the sweetness of fruit with savoury chicken for a balanced, flavourful meal. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste, it is sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection.