Description
A flavorful Italian Grinder Chicken Salad that combines shredded rotisserie chicken with classic deli meats, cheeses, and tangy banana peppers, all tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for a quick main course served with veggies, crackers, or on sandwiches.
Ingredients
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 (about 1/4 tsp or to taste)
Instructions
- Make the dressing: Combine all the dressing ingredients—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 thoroughly and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed to achieve a balanced and tangy flavor.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add shredded rotisserie chicken, diced salami or soppressata, diced pepperoni, diced provolone, crumbled feta, diced grape tomatoes, sliced or diced red onion, and banana peppers. Mix gently to combine all toppings evenly.
- Dress the salad: Pour most of the prepared dressing over the bowl of salad ingredients. Toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Add any remaining dressing as needed depending on your preferred level of moisture and taste.
- Store properly: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. This salad can be stored for up to 4 days, allowing flavors to meld nicely. It’s great for meal prep or quick lunches.
- Serving suggestions and leftover dressing: Serve the salad with fresh vegetables, crackers, tortilla chips, or use it as a filling for sandwiches. If you have leftover dressing, store it in a sealed container in the fridge and add more dressing to the salad when serving the next day to rehydrate and refresh the flavors.
Notes
- This salad is versatile; adjust the amount of banana pepper juice to control its tanginess and heat.
- Use freshly shredded rotisserie chicken for best flavor and convenience.
- You can substitute salami and pepperoni with other Italian cold cuts if desired.
- For a creamier salad, increase the mayonnaise slightly, or reduce for a lighter texture.
- Consume within 4 days to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage.
