If you’re searching for main dishes for dinner party success, this Savory Italian Chicken Salad with Grinder Flair is a showstopper! Inspired by the viral “grinder sandwich” trend, this bold, flavorful salad transforms classic deli-style ingredients into a hearty and irresistible dish that’s ideal for entertaining. It’s tangy, creamy, crunchy, and packed with Italian flair.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lively feast, this dish will earn rave reviews and make your guests come back for seconds.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dynamic dish to life:
For the Chicken:
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3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Grinder Dressing:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
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1 garlic clove, minced
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Salad Base:
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6 cups shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup thinly sliced red onions
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½ cup sliced banana peppers
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½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Toppings:
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Croutons or toasted grinder roll crumbles
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Sliced hard-boiled eggs
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Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large mixing bowl
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Small whisk or fork
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Chopping board and knife
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Salad tongs or serving spoon
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken
If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, add olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to the shredded meat and mix well in a medium bowl. This gives the chicken a quick flavor boost without cooking from scratch.
Step 2: Make the Grinder Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This zesty dressing brings everything together.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions, banana peppers, olives (if using), and cheeses. Toss gently to combine.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Dressing
Add the seasoned chicken to the salad bowl. Pour the grinder dressing over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Garnish with croutons or toasted grinder roll bits for that “sub sandwich” crunch. You can also top with hard-boiled egg slices or chopped parsley for an elevated presentation.
Helpful Tips for Making or Serving
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Make Ahead: You can prepare all components a few hours in advance. Store the dressing separately and toss everything together right before serving for the freshest texture.
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Use Grinder Rolls Creatively: Toast and cube leftover grinder rolls to create sandwich-inspired croutons.
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Spice It Up: Add sliced pepperoncini or use a spicy mayo blend in the dressing for a kick.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a meat-free version that still satisfies.
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Serve in Style: For dinner parties, plate the salad individually for each guest with garnishes and toasted bread on the side.
Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 6 servings):
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 29g
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 860mg
These values can vary slightly based on ingredient brands and additions, but overall, this salad is balanced, protein-rich, and satisfying enough to be a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Savory Italian Chicken Salad with Grinder Flair isn’t just another salad—it’s one of the most satisfying main dishes for dinner party hosts looking to impress. It takes everything you love about a loaded Italian sandwich and transforms it into a colorful, crave-worthy salad that feels both indulgent and fresh.