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Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe

4.5 from 368 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Italian Grinder Chicken Salad combining shredded rotisserie chicken with classic Italian deli meats, cheeses, and tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick meal served with crackers, veggies, or as a sandwich filling.

Ingredients

Scale

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 banana peppers (mild)
  • 1/2 red onion (sliced thin or diced)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 12 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

  1. Make the Dressing: Combine mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and salt in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Mix well and taste, adjusting seasonings as needed to your preference.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, diced provolone, crumbled feta, diced grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and sliced or diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients to mix thoroughly.
  3. Add Dressing to Salad: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the bowl of salad ingredients. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Add the remaining dressing if necessary to reach desired consistency.
  4. Store and Serve: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 4 days. Serve chilled alongside veggies, crackers, tortilla chips, or use it as a hearty sandwich filling.
  5. Save Leftover Dressing: If any dressing remains, keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Add it back to the salad before serving the next day to rehydrate and freshen the flavors, as some dressing may absorb into the salad over time.

Notes

  • This salad is very versatile and can be served as a main dish or a sandwich filling.
  • Adjust the amount of banana pepper juice for desired heat and tanginess.
  • Use freshly shredded rotisserie chicken for best flavor, but leftover cooked chicken will also work.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 4 days.
  • Adding the dressing gradually ensures the salad doesn’t become overdressed or soggy.

Keywords: Italian chicken salad, Italian grinder salad, rotisserie chicken salad, deli meat salad, easy no-cook salad, Italian deli salad