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Italian Grinder Chicken Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

A hearty and flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad combining shredded rotisserie chicken with a variety of Italian deli meats, cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a tangy, oregano-spiked homemade dressing. Perfect as a protein-packed salad, sandwich filling, or served alongside crackers or veggies for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Cheese

  • 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

Vegetables

  • 2/3 cup diced grape tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup banana peppers (mild)
  • 1/2 red onion (sliced thin or diced)

Dressing

  • 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 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
  • Salt to taste (about 1/4 tsp)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a bowl or liquid measuring cup, combine the mayonnaise, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, and salt. Whisk everything well. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings or banana pepper juice as needed for your preferred tanginess and flavor balance.
  2. Combine the Toppings: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, diced provolone, crumbled feta, diced grape tomatoes, banana peppers, and sliced or diced red onion. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  3. Toss with Dressing: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the bowl of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Toss everything well to fully coat the ingredients. If the salad seems dry, gradually add the remaining dressing until everything is nicely moistened.
  4. Store or Serve: Transfer the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it convenient for meal prep. Serve chilled, partnered with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or as a flavorful sandwich filling.
  5. Save Leftover Dressing: If any dressing remains after mixing, store it separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Use it to refresh the chicken salad the next day, as the flavors absorb and some dressing may be absorbed into the salad over time.

Notes

  • You can substitute the salami with soppressata or any other Italian cured meats you prefer.
  • Adjust banana pepper juice in the dressing gradually to balance acidity to your taste.
  • This salad stores well, but the dressing may thicken in the fridge; simply stir or add a splash of vinegar to loosen it before tossing again.
  • Serve with crunchy vegetables, crackers, or as a filling for subs or sandwiches for a classic Italian flavor.
  • For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise and reduce the amount of cheese.

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

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/italian-grinder-chicken-salad-recipe/