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Italian Grinder Chicken Salad: Your New Favorite Sandwich Filling (Minus the Bread)

  • Author: Tyla
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Description

Imagine all the bold, zesty flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich—salami, provolone, pickled peppers, and all those tangy, herby vibes—but swapped out for a healthier, lighter star: shredded chicken. This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad takes those sandwich essentials and blends them into a creamy, crunchy, savory salad that’s perfect on its own, stuffed into a pita, or even piled high on your favorite greens. It’s the best of both worlds—comfort and freshness in every bite, with zero sandwich guilt. Plus, it comes together fast and keeps well for lunches all week.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • 1/2 cup diced salami or pepperoni (optional, but so good)

  • 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers (jarred is fine)

  • 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini or pickled banana peppers

  • 1/2 cup diced celery for crunch

  • 1/4 cup diced red onion (mild and sweet, not overpowering)

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (use more or less to taste)

  • 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Get Your Chicken Ready
If you don’t have cooked chicken handy, roast or poach some breasts, then shred with forks. Rotisserie chicken is a huge shortcut here and adds great flavor.

Step 2: Chop and Prep
Dice your salami, roasted peppers, pepperoncini, celery, and onion. Grab the cheese and herbs, and get ready to mix!

Step 3: Mix the Magic
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, salami, cheese, veggies, and herbs. Add mayonnaise and Italian dressing, then stir everything together until it’s creamy, tangy, and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste. Want it creamier? Add more mayo. Need more tang? Splash in some extra Italian dressing or a squeeze of lemon. Spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like.

Step 5: Serve It Up
Scoop it onto sandwich rolls, stuff it into pita pockets, or pile it over your favorite greens for a light but satisfying meal.

Notes

Pair with crunchy pickles and a side of kettle chips for the full deli vibe. Or serve alongside a simple green salad and fresh fruit for a balanced lunch.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~5g
  • Protein: ~25g

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Find it online: https://tylarecipes.com/italian-grinder-chicken-salad-your-new-favorite-sandwich-filling-minus-the-bread/