Sep 04 2026
RestaurantsNiko's Breakfast ClubTropical Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe

Tropical Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make Tropical Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Salad

Method

Salad

  1. 1

    Prepare fruit and vegetables

    If using fresh pineapple and mango, peel and core/seed, then chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Drain canned pineapple well. Dice the red bell pepper and slice the celery and green onion thinly. Chop the cilantro and set all prepared produce aside.

  2. 2

    Toast walnuts

    Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast, shaking the pan occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned, 4–6 minutes. Remove to a plate to cool, then roughly chop. Alternatively, toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 6–8 minutes, watching closely.

  3. 3

    Combine salad base

    In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, chopped pineapple, diced mango, diced red bell pepper, sliced celery, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, and cooled toasted walnuts. Toss gently to combine so pieces are evenly distributed.

Dressing

  1. 4

    Make dressing

    In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning — add a little more honey for sweetness, more lime for brightness, or a pinch more salt to enhance flavors.

  2. 5

    Dress the salad

    Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the chicken-fruit mixture. Gently fold with a rubber spatula or large spoon until everything is lightly coated. Add more dressing to reach your desired creaminess. Refrigerate the dressed salad for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld, or up to 2 hours for best flavor. Reserve any remaining dressing for serving.

  3. 6

    Serve

    Serve the Tropical Walnut Chicken Salad chilled over a bed of mixed salad greens or butter lettuce if desired. Garnish with a few extra toasted walnut pieces and a small sprig of cilantro. Provide reserved dressing on the side for guests who want more.

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