Recreate Chili’s Legendary Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad at Home

For many, the mention of Chili’s Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad evokes fond memories of its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, a true tropical escape in every bite. This vibrant salad, once a beloved menu item, featured a perfectly marinated and grilled chicken breast, nestled on a bed of crisp greens, generously adorned with juicy pineapple chunks and fresh pico de gallo. The magic, however, was truly sealed with its signature honey lime dressing, a zesty and sweet concoction that beautifully harmonized all the exotic elements.

If you’ve been yearning for this discontinued favorite, wondering how to recapture its irresistible taste, your quest ends here. We’ve meticulously crafted a recipe to help you recreate the authentic experience of Chili’s Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad right in your own kitchen. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that promises to bring those cherished tropical flavors back to your table, allowing you to savor this iconic dish whenever the craving strikes.

Caribbean grilled chicken salad ready to eat.

Why You’ll Adore This Homemade Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad will become a staple in your recipe collection. Firstly, it offers an unparalleled balance of flavors – the savory, perfectly seasoned chicken breast beautifully contrasts with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple and the bright, tangy notes of pico de gallo. This symphony of tastes creates a truly satisfying and memorable meal experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Beyond its incredible flavor profile, making this salad at home provides immense benefits. You gain complete control over the quality and quantity of each ingredient, allowing for effortless customization to suit your dietary preferences or specific cravings. Whether you prefer organic greens, a leaner marinade, or a sugar-free dressing, tailoring this recipe is simple. This personalized approach means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of explaining every modification to a server or worrying about hidden ingredients. It’s also a wonderfully economical choice, offering a fresh, healthy, and substantial meal that’s far more budget-friendly than dining out.

Furthermore, this recipe is designed for ease, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining. The vibrant combination of lean protein, fresh fruits, and crisp vegetables makes it a nutritious powerhouse, providing essential vitamins, fiber, and protein to fuel your day. It’s a hearty yet light meal that leaves you feeling energized and satisfied, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lifestyle. Indulge in the exotic flavors and feel-good nutrition of this Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad, crafted just the way you like it.

Essential Ingredients for Your Tropical Chicken Salad

Crafting this sensational Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring together its distinctive tropical flair. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather:

Ingredients: Honey lime dressing, red cabbage, romaine lettuce, teriyaki marinade, chicken breasts, pineapple, pico de gallo, and tortilla strips or chips.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling, offering a lean protein base. Aim for evenly sized breasts to ensure uniform cooking.
Teriyaki Marinade: A good quality teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with umami and a hint of sweetness. You can opt for a store-bought version for convenience, but always check the label for sugar content and quality. Alternatively, a homemade teriyaki marinade offers superior control over flavors and ingredients.
Red (Purple) Cabbage: Adds a beautiful pop of color, a satisfying crunch, and a subtle peppery note to the salad. Finely shredding it ensures it blends well with other ingredients.
Romaine Lettuce: The backbone of any good salad, romaine provides a crisp, fresh base. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to dressing without wilting quickly.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks are key to the tropical essence of this salad. Look for a ripe pineapple that smells sweet at its base. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks (well-drained) can be a convenient substitute, though fresh offers a brighter flavor.
Honey Lime Dressing: This vibrant dressing is the crowning jewel of the salad. Its sweet and tangy profile with a citrusy kick brings all the flavors together. We highly recommend making our homemade version for the best results, which can also be easily adapted to be sugar-free.
Tortilla Strips or Chips: Crumbled tortilla chips or store-bought tortilla strips provide a delightful textural contrast and a slight savory crunch that complements the other ingredients.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh, vibrant mix of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice. While you can make it from scratch for ultimate freshness, store-bought pico de gallo is a fantastic shortcut if you’re short on time.

Each of these components plays a vital role in creating the harmonious and unforgettable taste of this Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad. Gathering them ensures you’re set for a truly delicious culinary adventure.

reminder to scroll to the recipe card for details.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad

Creating this flavorful Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps to bring this tropical delight to your table:

Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor: Begin by preparing your chicken breasts for marination. Place two boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a sturdy zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour approximately half a cup of your chosen teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. If using a store-bought marinade, take a moment to read the labels and select one with the lowest amount of added sugar for a healthier option without compromising on flavor. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least two hours. For an even deeper infusion of flavor and tenderness, consider marinating overnight. This crucial step allows the chicken to absorb the rich, savory notes of the marinade, making it incredibly juicy and delicious once grilled.
Prepare the Fresh Components: While your chicken is marinating, use this time to prepare the remaining fresh ingredients. This includes making your fresh pico de gallo, if you’re not using a store-bought shortcut. Chop your Roma tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and minced jalapeño, then combine them with fresh lime juice, a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, and salt to taste. Next, cut your fresh pineapple into bite-sized chunks or, if using canned pineapple, drain it thoroughly. Finally, chop your romaine lettuce and thinly slice your red cabbage. And perhaps most importantly, prepare the star of the show – your honey lime dressing! Its vibrant, zesty sweetness is what truly ties all the tropical flavors of this salad together. Having all these components ready before you cook the chicken ensures a smooth and quick assembly process.

chicken breasts with marinade in a plastic bag.

Grill the Marinated Chicken to Perfection: Once your chicken has absorbed all that wonderful marinade and you’re ready to cook, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If grilling indoors, a heavy skillet (such as cast iron) with a drizzle of oil on the stovetop works beautifully. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill or skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken, so always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. The chicken should have attractive grill marks and be golden brown. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meat.
Rest the Chicken and Assemble Your Salads: After cooking, remove the grilled chicken breasts from the heat and transfer them to a cutting board. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. While the chicken rests, you can begin assembling your salads. Toss the chopped romaine lettuce and shredded red cabbage together in a large bowl. Divide this leafy base evenly between your serving plates or large salad bowls.

Final Assembly and Drizzle: To each salad, add a generous helping of your fresh pico de gallo and the juicy pineapple chunks. For that essential crunch, sprinkle some broken tortilla chips or strips over the top. Now, slice the rested grilled chicken breasts into even strips and arrange them attractively over the salads. The final touch, and arguably the most important, is a generous drizzle of your homemade honey lime dressing. This dressing will weave all the distinct flavors together, transforming a collection of ingredients into a cohesive, delicious Caribbean feast. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of tropical flavors!

Salad ingredients getting assembled on a plate.

Sliced grilled chicken breast added to the Caribbean salad.

A spoon drizzling dressing over the chicken on the caribbean salad.

Exciting Variations & Customization Ideas for Your Grilled Chicken Salad

The beauty of this Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad recipe lies in its versatility. While the original combination is truly outstanding, feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and experiment with various substitutions and additions to make it uniquely yours. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire you:

Tropical Fruit Swaps: If pineapple isn’t available or you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider using fresh mango cubes. Mango offers a similarly sweet and tropical essence, adding a creamy texture and vibrant color. Other fruits like diced papaya or even a few tart dried cranberries can introduce interesting notes.
Protein Alternatives: While grilled chicken is traditional, this salad is incredibly adaptable to other proteins. Try grilled shrimp for a seafood twist, flaky grilled white fish like mahi-mahi or snapper, or even grilled tofu or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Green Evolution: Don’t limit yourself to romaine and red cabbage. A blend of mixed greens, tender spinach, or peppery arugula can add different textures and nutritional benefits. For an extra crisp bite, throw in some thinly sliced bell peppers of various colors.
Vary Your Veggies: Enhance the freshness and crunch with additional vegetables. Consider adding roasted corn kernels (fresh or frozen), diced cucumber, or even some thinly sliced radish for a peppery kick. Sliced avocado can add a creamy richness that beautifully complements the other flavors.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in your pico de gallo, or sprinkle some red chili flakes over the finished salad. A dash of hot sauce in the dressing could also provide a delightful kick.
Cheesy Indulgence: For a touch of savory richness, crumbled Cotija cheese or a sprinkle of salty feta cheese can elevate the salad’s flavor profile.
Shortcut Savvy: Don’t hesitate to use smart shortcuts when time is of the essence. Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips from the grocery store can reduce prep time significantly. As mentioned, store-bought pico de gallo is a wonderful time-saver. And if fresh pineapple is hard to come by, thoroughly drained canned pineapple chunks are a perfectly acceptable substitute.
Dietary Adjustments: Our honey lime dressing recipe offers instructions for a sugar-free version, which truly tastes just as good! This allows you to easily adapt the entire salad to be lower in sugar or carb-conscious without sacrificing flavor.

Feel empowered to experiment with these variations and create your ultimate Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad masterpiece!

Serving Your Exquisite Caribbean Chicken Salad

Presenting your Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Begin by combining the crisp romaine lettuce and vibrant red cabbage in a large bowl, then divide this fresh base evenly among individual plates or large salad bowls. Next, artfully arrange the fresh pico de gallo and juicy pineapple chunks over the greens. For that satisfying textural contrast, sprinkle a generous amount of broken tortilla chips or strips over each salad, adding a delightful crunch with every bite.

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into uniform strips and place them atop the colorful salad components. The final, magical touch is a generous drizzle of your homemade honey lime dressing. This dressing is not just a condiment; it’s the element that beautifully unites all the sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, creating a harmonious and unforgettable dish. Serve immediately as a light lunch, a vibrant dinner, or even as an impressive side dish. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a side of black beans and rice or some warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra dressing.

Storing Leftover Grilled Chicken Salad for Freshness

To ensure your Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad remains fresh and delicious for future enjoyment, it’s crucial to store its components separately. Place any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it. This will prevent the chicken from drying out and maintain its flavor. Similarly, store the honey lime dressing in a separate airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. The pico de gallo should also be stored separately in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and prevent it from making the greens soggy.

When it comes to the greens and pineapple, it’s best to store them un-dressed and separate from any wetter ingredients. Keep the chopped lettuce and cabbage in a separate container, perhaps with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and the pineapple chunks in their own container. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reassemble a fresh salad on a plate with the desired amount of greens, pineapple, pico de gallo, and tortilla strips. Briefly re-warm the chicken if preferred, slice it, and place it on top. Finish with a fresh drizzle of the honey lime dressing. This method ensures that each component retains its optimal texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy a fast, easy, and incredibly fresh meal without compromising on quality.

Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe

Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad

This delicious sweet and savory salad makes a fabulous meal! A marinated and grilled chicken breast tops greens with pico de gallo and pineapple. Don’t forget the delicious honey lime dressing!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Servings: 2

Calories: 339kcal

Author: Sula

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless skinless
½ cup teriyaki marinade (I use Kikkoman brand)
½ cup honey lime dressing (recipe follows below)
2 Roma Tomatoes
½ cup onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, minced
½ cup cilantro leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice, fresh squeezed
⅛ teaspoon cumin
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
salt to taste
1 romaine heart, chopped
½ cup red cabbage, chopped or sliced thin
¾ cup fresh pineapple chunks
tortilla chips or strips, broken up

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in a plastic bag or small bowl. Cover with the marinade. Close/seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Make the honey lime dressing using the recipe below.
Make the pico de gallo, cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Heat a little oil in a heavy skillet or the outdoor grill on medium to medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side, until done. Remove the chicken from the heat and cover to rest the meat while assembling the salads.
Toss the lettuce and cabbage together, then divide it between 2 plates or bowls.
Add pico de gallo to each salad, as well as the pineapple. Sprinkle some broken tortilla chips over the salad for a little crunch.
Slice the chicken breasts into strips and divide between the salads.
Drizzle with some honey lime dressing and serve!

Notes

Nutrition estimates do not include salad dressing.

You can substitute canned pineapple for the fresh, if needed.

Nutrition

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

Honey Lime Salad Dressing Recipe

Honey Lime Salad Dressing

This dressing adds a lovely zip to your salads: sweet and tangy, the taste of honey and lime in every bite!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8

Calories: 81kcal