This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad brings all the bold, savory flavors of your favorite deli sandwich into a creamy, scoopable salad that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Packed with rotisserie chicken, deli meats, tangy banana peppers, and a creamy parmesan-spiked dressing, it’s perfect for meal prep, parties, or a crave-worthy lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
🥪 Grinder-Inspired: Classic sandwich flavors without the bread.
🔥 Tangy & Bold: Red wine vinegar and banana pepper juice add irresistible zip.
⏱️ Quick & Easy: Comes together in just 20 minutes—no cooking needed!
🥗 Versatile: Serve on crackers, in lettuce cups, or piled into a croissant.
🧀 Loaded with Flavor: Two kinds of cheese and seasoned meats make every bite pop.
Time Needed
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken Salad Base
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ¼ lb salami or soppressata, diced
- ¼ lb pepperoni, diced
- ¼ cup thick-sliced provolone, diced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta
- ⅔ cup grape tomatoes, diced
- ⅓ cup mild banana peppers
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1–2 tablespoons banana pepper juice (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt, to taste (about ¼ teaspoon)
How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
1️⃣ Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together mayonnaise, parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2️⃣ Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, add shredded chicken, diced deli meats, red onion, tomatoes, banana peppers, and both cheeses. Pour most of the dressing over the mixture and toss well to combine.
3️⃣ Adjust & Chill
Add the remaining dressing if needed. Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor (optional).
4️⃣ Serve It Up
Scoop onto crackers, use as a dip with fresh veggies, or stuff into a buttery croissant for an elevated sandwich.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Rehydrate: If it dries out, add a splash of leftover dressing or extra vinegar before serving.
Customization Ideas
- Use ham, prosciutto, or spicy deli meats to mix up the flavor.
- Swap cheese types to your liking—mozzarella, cheddar, or all provolone.
- Turn it into a low-carb wrap with romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is the definition of flavor-forward and fuss-free. With its hearty texture, zesty dressing, and deli-style ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to whether you’re planning lunchboxes, party platters, or quick dinners. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!
Print
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Italian Grinder Chicken Salad brings all the savory, zesty deli flavors of a grinder sandwich into a scoopable, no-cook salad. Perfect for meal prep, parties, or quick lunches.
Ingredients
- Chicken Salad Base:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ¼ lb salami or soppressata, diced
- ¼ lb pepperoni, diced
- ¼ cup thick-sliced provolone, diced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta
- ⅔ cup grape tomatoes, diced
- ⅓ cup mild banana peppers
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
- Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1–2 tablespoons banana pepper juice (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt, to taste (about ¼ teaspoon)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, parmesan, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced deli meats, red onion, tomatoes, banana peppers, provolone, and feta. Pour in most of the dressing and toss well.
- Add remaining dressing if needed. Chill for 10–15 minutes for best flavor, if time allows.
- Serve on crackers, in lettuce cups, or in croissants for a sandwich twist.
Notes
Store up to 4 days in the fridge. Refresh with a splash of vinegar or dressing before serving. Try different meats or cheeses to customize. Great for low-carb wraps in lettuce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: chicken salad, grinder salad, deli-inspired, meal prep salad, italian chicken salad