Ingredients
Method
Cooking the Chicken
- Roast your chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken breasts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking tray for 18–25 minutes until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C). Rest for 5–10 minutes, then shred with forks.
- Alternatively, poach the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water or low-sodium chicken broth, add a bay leaf and a couple of peppercorns, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 12–15 minutes until done. Remove and shred.
Prepare Mix-ins
- While chicken cools, chop the celery, red onion, and cilantro. If using fresh pineapple, core and dice it; if canned, drain and pat dry.
- Toast nuts and coconut (if using) on a baking tray at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Let cool.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, honey (or pineapple juice), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust if needed.
Assemble the Chicken Salad
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, pineapple, celery, onion, and chopped nuts.
- Pour dressing over the mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
- Fold in cilantro and toasted coconut last to maintain texture.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld; serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a lighter dressing, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
