Pineapple Chicken and Bean Salad

Name: Pineapple Chicken and Bean Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love making this Pineapple Chicken and Bean Salad during warm weather months. The juicy pineapple and tender chicken create a delightful harmony of flavors, while the beans add a hearty texture. With just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of tanginess, this salad is not only refreshing but also packed with protein. It's perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at barbecues. The best part is that it comes together in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T13:00:58.080Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining chicken with pineapple in a salad, I was intrigued. After giving it a try, I realized how these two ingredients complement each other. The sweetness from the pineapple brightens the savory elements of the chicken and beans, creating a well-rounded dish that I can whip up in less than half an hour.

One essential tip I've learned is to marinate the chicken in citrus juice for just a few minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist. Pairing this with a simple vinaigrette elevates the entire salad, making it a go-to in my recipe collection.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The vibrant flavors of pineapple and chicken create a deliciously unique salad.
Packed with protein and fiber, it's a filling and nutritious option.
Perfect for meal prepping or serving at casual gatherings.

      

Balancing Flavors

The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delightful flavor profile in this salad. When marinating the chicken with lime juice, you're not only tenderizing the meat but also infusing it with zesty brightness. This marinade enhances the overall taste of the salad, so don't skip this step! Allowing the chicken to marinate for about 10 minutes will yield a more flavorful result, making every bite a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.

Choosing the right pineapple is crucial for maximizing flavor in this dish. Fresh pineapple tends to have a vibrant sweetness and a firm texture that holds up well in salads. If using canned pineapple, opt for varieties packed in juice rather than syrup, as this helps to maintain a light, refreshing taste. Additionally, letting the pineapple pieces drain thoroughly before adding them to the salad will prevent extra moisture from making the salad soggy.

Texture Matters

The texture of your salad is just as important as the flavors. The tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and creamy black beans create a satisfying mouthfeel, while crunchy bell pepper and onion provide a contrast that keeps each bite interesting. Make sure to chop the ingredients uniformly; this not only improves the visual appeal but also ensures that the flavors mix uniformly, allowing for a balanced tasting experience.

If you prefer a bit more crunch, consider adding other ingredients like cucumber or even diced avocado. These additions can enhance texture while offering different flavors. If you're concerned about calories, substituting Greek yogurt for the honey in the dressing can add creaminess with extra protein and reduce sweetness, without compromising the salad's overall appeal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad.

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients for a delicious and colorful salad.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to assemble your salad.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken with lime juice and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently to coat, and serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

This salad can be enjoyed right away, but it tastes even better after marinating for an hour!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds. If you can't find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple works just as well. Just make sure to drain it properly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Pineapple Chicken and Bean Salad can be made ahead, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, to prevent the salad from becoming soggy, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. This will ensure that the ingredients remain fresh and maintain their individual textures.

When making ahead, it’s wise to consider the flavor development. Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and ensure an even coating over all the ingredients.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to experiment with variations of this salad based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. For instance, if you're looking for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with diced tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty substitute that absorbs the dressing well.

You can also mix in other beans such as chickpeas or kidney beans for varied taste and texture. For a low-carb version, consider using shredded lettuce or cabbage instead of beans. These modifications can keep the salad interesting while aligning with different dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! This salad is a great way to use up any leftover chicken.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long can I store this salad?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use a vegan honey substitute.