You know those days when you want something that tastes like a full-on deli sub but feels a little lighter and fresher? Well, buckle up, because this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is about to become your new obsession. It’s got all the bold, punchy flavors of your favorite Italian sub—without the bread, but with all the satisfying vibes.
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We’re talking tender chicken, zesty Italian dressing, crunchy veggies, and that briny kick from pepperoncini and olives that just makes everything better. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but flexible enough to serve in a lettuce wrap, over toasted bread, or straight from the bowl with a fork (no judgment here).
Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or even as a unique party dish. Think picnic-ready or packed into a bento box for your work lunch—it fits every vibe.
Budget-Friendly: Uses fridge and pantry staples. You don’t need to hit the fancy grocery store for this one—it’s built on familiar ingredients that come together like magic.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking the chicken fresh or using leftovers, it all comes together fast—perfect for those “what’s for dinner?” nights.
Customizable: Love heat? Add chili flakes. Craving crunch? Throw in extra lettuce or cucumbers. Make it yours.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s savory, zesty, creamy, and fresh. Adults love it, kids can pick and choose what they like—it’s a win across the board.
Ingredients in Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Cooked Chicken: This is your base—shredded rotisserie, grilled breasts, or even leftover thighs work beautifully. The meat soaks up all the zesty dressing.
Romaine Lettuce: Fresh, crisp, and perfect for that signature “grinder crunch.”
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy little bursts of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
Red Onion: Adds that sharp, tangy bite. Slice it thin so it doesn’t overpower.
Banana Peppers or Pepperoncini: These are non-negotiable. They add a zingy, pickled punch that makes this salad sing.
Sliced Black Olives: A touch of saltiness and umami to bring it all together.
Provolone or Mozzarella: Because we all need a little melty richness—even in salad form.
Italian Dressing: Store-bought or homemade, it brings all the flavors together with that signature herb-garlic-vinegar combo.
Mayonnaise: Just a little to add creaminess and round out the sharp flavors.
Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder: These give the salad that classic grinder flavor—warm, herby, and just a little garlicky.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating needed unless you’re toasting bread or warming up the chicken. Otherwise, this is a no-cook dream!
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add your chopped chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini, olives, and cheese. Gently toss everything to combine.
Prepare Your Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together your Italian dressing, a spoonful of mayo, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated. Make sure that chicken soaks up the dressing—it’s where the magic happens.
Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Maybe a little salt, some black pepper, or an extra splash of dressing for good measure.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled or room temp. It’s fantastic as-is, but don’t hesitate to scoop it into lettuce cups, layer it on toast, or wrap it up for a handheld version.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 360 (approx.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Lettuce Wraps: Perfect for a low-carb, crunchy handheld lunch.
Open-Faced Sandwich: Pile it high on toasted sourdough or focaccia.
Stuffed Pita: A cozy pocket of Italian goodness.
Over Pasta or Couscous: For a heartier meal, serve it warm or cold over cooked grains.
Party Dip Style: Serve it in a bowl with crostini or crackers on the side.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and an extra drizzle of dressing before serving to make it pop!
Additional Tips
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Make It Creamier: Stir in a bit more mayo or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for lunch throughout the week.
Add Crunch: Top with crushed croutons or toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.
Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative—still delish!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use canned chicken?
A1: Totally! Just make sure to drain it well and fluff it up before mixing.
Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Store the salad and dressing separately until you’re ready to serve to keep it crisp.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing as the veggies don’t thaw well.
Q4: Can I use a different cheese?
A4: Absolutely—try sharp cheddar, Swiss, or even crumbled feta for a twist.
Q5: What can I use instead of Italian dressing?
A5: A mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs makes a great homemade version.
Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A6: It can be! Just double-check your dressing and toppings to make sure they’re certified gluten-free.
Q7: Can I add pasta to make it more filling?
A7: Yes, turning it into a pasta salad is a great twist!
Q8: What protein alternatives work here?
A8: Try turkey, tofu, or even tuna—it’s a very forgiving base.
Q9: Can I double the recipe for a party?
A9: You bet! Just mix in a larger bowl and adjust seasoning to taste.
Q10: Any other fun add-ins?
A10: Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or marinated artichokes would all be fantastic.
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A tangy and flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad that transforms the classic Grinder sandwich into a versatile chicken salad, perfect for dipping with crackers, veggies, or serving on a toasted croissant.
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 grape tomatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup banana peppers, mild
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thin or diced
- 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 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl or liquid measuring cup, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1-2 tablespoons banana pepper juice, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt to make the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/4 lb. diced salami or soppressata, 1/4 lb. diced pepperoni, 1/4 cup diced provolone, 1/4 cup crumbled feta, 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes, 1/3 cup mild banana peppers, and 1/2 red onion (sliced thin or diced).
- Pour most of the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat, adding remaining dressing if needed.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve with veggies, crackers, tortilla chips, or on a toasted croissant. If storing, reserve extra dressing to refresh the salad if it becomes dry.
Notes
- Adjust banana pepper juice to control tanginess and spice level.
- Refrigerate leftover dressing and add to salad the next day if it absorbs too much dressing.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cucumber slices or lettuce wraps instead of crackers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg