Do you love a good chicken salad but want something with a tropical twist? This Pineapple Chicken Salad might just be your new favorite. Juicy pineapple chunks meet tender shredded chicken in a creamy dressing, brightened with celery, green onions, and sweet dried cranberries. It’s the kind of dish that balances savory and sweet with refreshing precision.

Whether you’re prepping for a casual lunch, a picnic, or a light weeknight dinner, this salad delivers in both flavor and texture. The pineapple adds a juicy pop that wakes up the creamy base, while the cranberries offer a tart chew that makes every bite interesting. Serve it on croissants, lettuce wraps, or straight out of the bowl with a spoon—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Pineapple Chicken Salad as efficient and mess-free as possible, having the right tools is key:

Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium): You’ll want a spacious bowl for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for dicing pineapple, celery, and green onions with precision.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures the perfect balance between mayo, seasoning, and fruit.
Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently so the chicken stays chunky and the fruits don’t get crushed.
Serving Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: Handy for portioning onto croissants or lettuce cups neatly.

Each tool plays a small but crucial role in keeping this salad fresh, vibrant, and satisfying without turning it into mush. Keep your workspace tidy and your tools sharp, and you’ll enjoy a quick, easy prep that yields amazing results.

Ingredients for the Pineapple Chicken Salad

Cooked Chicken: The base of this salad, tender chicken brings heartiness and protein to the mix.
Pineapple Chunks: These juicy bites offer a sweet, tangy contrast and moisture.
Celery: For crunch and a hint of earthiness.
Green Onions: They bring freshness and a light zing.
Dried Cranberries: Add chewiness and a sweet-tart pop.
Mayonnaise: Binds everything together with a creamy texture.
Salt and Pepper: To enhance and balance the flavors.

Each ingredient plays a specific role—texture, taste, or moisture—making this salad more than just a simple mix. It’s a composed dish where every bite tells a story.

How To Make the Pineapple Chicken Salad

Step 1: Shred the Chicken

Use your hands or two forks to pull the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This creates texture and helps the dressing cling.

Step 2: Chop Fresh Ingredients

Dice the pineapple, celery, and green onions. Keep them bite-sized for even mixing and easy scooping.

Step 3: Combine the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, chopped produce, and dried cranberries. Toss lightly.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust to your preference.

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold with a rubber spatula. Be careful not to mash the pineapple or chicken.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then serve however you like—croissants, wraps, or bowls.

How to Serve and Store Pineapple Chicken Salad

Serving: This salad is versatile. Spoon it into butter croissants for a soft, flaky bite. Go low-carb with romaine lettuce wraps. Or present it on a bed of greens for a light lunch. It also pairs well with crackers on a charcuterie board.

Storing: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again, as some moisture may settle at the bottom. It’s not freezer-friendly due to the mayonnaise and fresh fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store this chicken salad?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to drain it well to avoid watery salad. Fresh pineapple provides better texture and flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Make a batch and portion it into containers for lunch during the week.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Just swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free version, and you’re good to go.

What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken is the easiest and tastiest choice, but grilled or poached chicken breast works just as well.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or slivered almonds add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

Want More Chicken Salad Ideas?

If you love this fruity twist, don’t stop here. You might also enjoy the refreshing crunch of my Italian Grinder Salad, or the creamy tanginess of Wendy’s Chili Recipe as a warm companion to chilled salads.

For more pineapple inspiration, check out my 2-Ingredient Pineapple Cake—a dessert so simple it’s genius. If savory is more your thing, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna gives you a spicy, comforting meal with rich layers.

Looking for another summer-ready bowl? You’ll love the California Spaghetti Salad for a pasta-based, veggie-loaded delight.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your salad boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add chopped nuts? Swap in Greek yogurt? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

And if you’re hungry for more easy, flavorful dishes, come follow along on my Pinterest: LadyPlate Daily Recipes

Pineapple Chicken Salad

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Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

A refreshing and tropical twist on classic chicken salad! This version uses juicy pineapple chunks, crunchy celery, and tangy dried cranberries in a creamy mayo base. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light summer lunch.