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Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and heartwarming dishes. From pasta to pizza, the Italian culinary tradition offers a delectable range of options that cater to diverse palates. One area where Italian cooking truly shines is in its salads, which often showcase the balance of fresh produce, savory flavors, and aromatic herbs. Enter the Italian Grinder Chicken Salad—a dish that marries the essence of Italian flavors with the wholesome goodness of a salad.

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine with our Italian Grinder Chicken Salad recipe. This delicious salad features tender shredded chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and zesty dressing, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the year. Perfect for light lunches or gatherings, this dish is packed with nutritious ingredients like black olives and provolone cheese. Enjoy the perfect combination of flavors that embodies Italian freshness and heartiness in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably roasted or grilled)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced

1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup provolone cheese, diced

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

Fresh ciabatta or hoagie rolls, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: If not already cooked, roast or grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked, let cool, and shred into bite-sized pieces.

    Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, black olives, provolone cheese, fresh basil, and parsley.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-blended.

        Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture and gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.

          Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

            Serve: Slice fresh ciabatta or hoagie rolls and generously fill them with the Italian grinder chicken salad. Optionally, you can toast the rolls for added crunch.

              Enjoy Your Creation: Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful Italian twist on a classic chicken salad!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6