Okay, picture this: piled-high Italian grinder, dripping with that tangy dressing, layers of salami, provolone… Ugh, my mouth is watering just thinking about it! I’ve been obsessed with those sandwiches since I was a kid. But, let’s be real, sometimes you just want all those amazing flavors without the heavy bread, right?
That’s where this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe comes in, and trust me, it’s a total game-changer. It’s basically all the *good stuff* from an Italian grinder sandwich transformed into a super simple, seriously delicious salad. Think of it as a deconstructed grinder, but, like, way easier to throw together. Plus, it’s perfect if you’re trying to cut down on carbs (we’ll get to that!).
I’ve been tweaking this recipe for ages, trying to nail that perfect balance of tangy, savory, and a little bit spicy, just like my favorite deli sandwich. And I gotta say, I think I’ve finally cracked the code. So, ditch the bread, grab a bowl, and let’s get mixing!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Quick and Easy Lunch or Dinner
Seriously, you can whip this up faster than ordering takeout. I’m talking, like, 15 minutes tops! It’s perfect for a speedy lunch or a light dinner when you just don’t feel like cooking. Plus, it’s way healthier than hitting the drive-through, trust me!
All the Italian Grinder Flavors Without the Bread
Okay, this is the best part. You get all those amazing Italian grinder flavors – the tangy vinegar, the spicy peppers, the salty meats – without the bread bloat. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite, but without the carb coma. Win-win!
Perfect for Low-Carb Diets
Trying to cut back on carbs? This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is your new best friend! It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, so it’ll keep you full and satisfied without all the extra carbs. I sometimes serve it in lettuce wraps for an extra low-carb kick. So good!
Ingredients for the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This isn’t rocket science, but using good stuff *really* makes a difference. Here’s what you’ll need to gather. Don’t worry if you don’t have *everything* perfect, this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is pretty forgiving!
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great!)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I prefer full-fat, but you do you!)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (this is key for that tang!)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (adds a nice bite)
- 1/4 cup chopped banana peppers (a must for that grinder flavor!)
- 1/4 cup chopped provolone cheese (diced small)
- 1/4 cup chopped salami (also diced small)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (good quality, please!)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (essential Italian flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little kick!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
- Lettuce for serving (or your favorite bread/crackers)
How to Make This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, ready to get mixing? It’s so easy, you’ll be snacking on this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe in no time! Just follow these steps, and you’re golden.
- First, grab a big bowl – you’ll want some room to mix! Throw in your shredded chicken, mayo, red wine vinegar, red onion, banana peppers, provolone, and salami. Bam!
- Next, drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle in the dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Don’t be afraid of that red pepper – it gives it a *kick*!
- Now, season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go, okay? You might want a little more, a little less – it’s all about *your* taste buds!
- Mix it all up! Make sure everything’s nicely combined. Don’t overmix, though – you still want to see those yummy chunks of cheese and salami.
- Finally, serve it up! I love piling this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe into lettuce cups for a low-carb thing. But you can also use your favorite bread, crackers, whatever floats your boat!
Tips for the Best Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Wanna take this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe to the next level? Here’s my secret weapon: chill it! Seriously, letting it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or even longer!) lets all the flavors meld together. Trust me, it makes a *huge* difference. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. More red pepper flakes for extra spice? Go for it!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Okay, let’s get real about the ingredients! This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe is super flexible, so don’t stress if you need to make a few swaps. I’ll let you in on a few secrets about why I chose these ingredients and what else you can use!
Chicken Options
Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because, well, it’s easy! Plus, that smoky flavor adds something special to this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe. But if you’re feeling ambitious, you can totally cook your chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded and not dry! Grilled chicken would also be amazing!
Cheese Variations
Provolone is classic for an Italian grinder, but hey, live a little! Mozzarella would be super yummy and mild. Or, for a bit of a kick, try pepper jack! Honestly, any cheese that melts well and has a bit of flavor will work in this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe. Play around and see what you like!
Serving Suggestions for your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe all mixed up… now what? Well, the possibilities are endless! I love piling it into crisp lettuce wraps for a light lunch. But honestly, it’s also amazing on crusty bread, crackers, or even scooped onto a big bowl of mixed greens. Whatever makes you happy!
Storing Your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe actually gets *better* after it sits for a bit. Just pop it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be good for up to 3 days. Honestly, I don’t recommend freezing it, because the mayo gets weird. Just saying!
Frequently Asked Questions About This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I make this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Totally! In fact, I *recommend* it! Letting it chill in the fridge for a few hours really lets those flavors meld. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’re good to go!
What’s the best way to serve this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe?
Honestly? Any way you like! I love it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, but it’s also killer on toasted bread or crackers. Get creative!
Can I use a different type of vinegar in this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe?
Red wine vinegar is my go-to for that classic Italian grinder tang, but you *could* experiment! White wine vinegar would work in a pinch, but it’s a bit milder. Balsamic? Mmm, not so much – it’s too sweet and overpowering for this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe.
Estimated Nutritional Information for Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe
Okay, so here’s the deal: I’m not a nutritionist, but here’s a rough estimate of what you’re looking at per serving. Keep in mind, it’s just an estimate, okay?
Enjoyed This Recipe?
Awesome! If you loved this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe as much as I do, leave a comment below! Or even better… rate the recipe! And don’t forget to share it with your friends on social media. They’ll thank you, I promise!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad: 15 Minute Mouthwatering Meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe combines the flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich into a delicious and easy-to-make salad.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped banana peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped salami
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, red onion, banana peppers, provolone cheese, and salami.
- Add the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Serve the salad on lettuce cups or your choice of bread or crackers.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- For a creamier salad, add more mayonnaise.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
