Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Published June 16, 2012. Updated March 25, 2024

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Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches feature fresh Hawaiian flavors, with fresh pineapple, macadamia nuts, ham, and green onions in a creamy base. They’re perfect for summer, especially on light and fresh bread or buns! 

I’m loving the Hawaiian flavors lately. I made Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches a few days ago (which were amazing if I do say so myself) and I had some left over fresh pineapple so I thought, why not make another Hawaiian inspired dish? These sandwiches are packed with the flavors of the Islands.

Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches

I tried to think of all foods that remind me of Hawaii when making this recipe (even though sadly I’ve never been there, what is up with that??). Of course I thought of Hawaiian Pizza, one of my favorites with its ham and pineapple combo. Then I’d say the first type of nut I think of when I think of Hawaii is Macadamia, and can you have a chicken salad sandwich without some kind of nut?

Also, I wanted to add a bit of sweetness to the dressing (but don’t worry it’s not overly sweet) so I added in the honey and pineapple juice. I don’t like a really thick dressing over my chicken salad but if you do you could omit the pineapple juice and add a few more tablespoons of the mayo or some Greek yogurt. Don’t be afraid to make substitutions to make a recipe more delicious for your family’s taste!

Tropical Recipes to Try

I hope you love these delicious Island inspired sandwiches! May they make you feel as though you are vacationing in Hawaii. Here are a few more Island Vibe recipes you might want to make for a luau, pool party, or island-themed event!

Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches

16 Quick & Easy 30 Minute Recipes! (plus weekly recipe updates)

Hawaiian Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Chicken salad sandwiches covered with a creamy dressing and packed with Hawaiian flavors.
Servings: 6
Prep15 minutes
Ready in: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs cooked chicken breast , chilled and shredded
  • 8 oz cooked ham , chilled and diced
  • 1 1/2 cups diced fresh pineapple (canned would work too, but drain well)
  • 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
  • 2/3 cup chopped Macadamia nuts or Cashews
  • 2 Tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, toss together shredded chicken, diced ham, pineapple, celery, nuts and green onions. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, pineapple juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, onion powder and season with salt and pepper to taste. 
  • Pour dressing over chicken mixture. Toss to evenly coat. Serve on Crusty Rustic Bread, Hawaiian Sweet Bread or whatever bread, roll or croissant you'd like.