Italian Grinder Chicken Salad: Irresistible 20-Minute Comfort

Name: Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1/4 lb salami or soppressata, diced; 1/4 lb pepperoni, diced; 1/4 cup provolone cheese, thick-sliced and diced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2/3 cup grape tomatoes, diced; 1/3 cup mild banana peppers, chopped; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons vinegar; 1–2 tablespoons banana pepper juice, to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Salt, about 1/4 teaspoon or to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you love the bold, savory flavors of a classic Italian sub but don’t love the mess (or the carb overload on a busy day), this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is about to become your new obsession. It’s creamy, tangy, loaded with deli goodness, and—best of all—comes together in about 20 minutes flat.

This is the kind of recipe that feels a little indulgent but still totally doable for real life. You know, the nights when you want something really good without pulling out every pan you own. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or just standing in front of the fridge wondering what to eat (we’ve all been there), this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad has your back.

And yes… it tastes just as amazing as it sounds.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Let me count the ways—because this one checks all the boxes:

Big Italian deli flavor without baking or cooking from scratch
Perfect for busy schedules thanks to rotisserie chicken
Make-ahead friendly (hello, stress-free lunches)
Endlessly flexible—serve it as a salad, sandwich, or dip
Crowd-pleasing even for picky eaters

It’s creamy, zippy, and packed with texture from the meats, cheeses, and crunchy veggies. Basically, it’s like your favorite Italian grinder took a comfy, cozy detour into chicken salad territory.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here—just simple ingredients doing delicious things together.

For the Salad

2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
¼ lb salami or soppressata, diced
¼ lb pepperoni, diced
¼ cup provolone, thick-sliced and diced
¼ cup crumbled feta
⅔ cup grape tomatoes, diced
⅓ cup banana peppers (mild)
½ red onion, thinly sliced or diced

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup grated parmesan
3 tablespoons vinegar
1–2 tablespoons banana pepper juice (to taste)
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Salt, about ¼ teaspoon (adjust as needed)

How to Make Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

This is one of those recipes where the steps are blissfully simple—no stress, no fuss.

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the mayonnaise, parmesan, vinegar, banana pepper juice, oregano, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Give it a taste and adjust as needed.
(Too tangy? Add a little more mayo. Want more zip? Another splash of pepper juice does the trick.)

Step 2: Combine the Good Stuff

In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced salami, pepperoni, red onion, tomatoes, banana peppers, provolone, and feta. Just looking at this bowl feels exciting—and that’s always a good sign.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Pour most of the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is nicely coated. Add more dressing as needed. You want it creamy, not swimming.

Step 4: Chill or Serve

You can serve it right away, but it gets even better after chilling for 30 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad served in a bowl with cherry tomatoes, olives, and crusty bread — This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is creamy, hearty, and loaded with classic deli flavors—perfect for scooping with crusty bread.

My Favorite Ways to Serve It

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile, which makes it perfect for busy weeks.

On toasted hoagie rolls for full grinder vibes
With crackers or tortilla chips as a snacky lunch
Over chopped romaine for a hearty salad bowl
With sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for dipping
Stuffed into wraps or pita pockets

Basically, if you can scoop it, stack it, or spread it—you’re good to go.

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

Use cold chicken. It helps the dressing cling better and keeps everything fresh.
Dice small. Smaller pieces mean better flavor in every bite.
Go easy on the onion if you’re onion-sensitive—it does mellow as it sits.
Save extra dressing. The salad absorbs moisture overnight, so a quick stir-in the next day brings it right back to life.
Don’t skip the banana pepper juice. That tangy kick is what makes this salad sing.

And if your dressing feels a little thick? Don’t panic. That’s just extra comfort waiting to happen.

A Little Personal Note

This recipe was born during one of those weeks where my to-do list felt longer than the day itself. I had leftover rotisserie chicken, a drawer full of deli meats, and zero desire to cook. One quick mix later, and dinner was handled—and everyone went back for seconds.

That’s my favorite kind of recipe. The ones that save the day and make you feel like you really nailed it.

FAQs About Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Can I substitute the meats?

Absolutely. Ham, capicola, or even turkey work well. Just keep the total amount about the same.

Is this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad spicy?

Not at all—especially if you use mild banana peppers. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving.

Can I make it lighter?

You can swap part of the mayo for Greek yogurt, but keep some mayo for that classic creamy texture.

Is it good for meal prep?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches.

A Cozy Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is everything we love about comfort food—bold flavors, creamy texture, and zero unnecessary stress. It’s quick, flexible, and satisfying in that can’t-stop-scooping kind of way.

Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or straight from the fridge (no judgment here), this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad deserves a regular spot in your recipe rotation. And once you try it, I have a feeling it won’t be leaving anytime soon. 💛

Let me know how you serve yours—I love seeing these recipes come to life in real kitchens.

More Cozy Recipes You’ll Love Next

If this Italian Grinder Chicken Salad hit the spot, here are a few other favorites that keep the same bold, comforting, and easygoing energy going—perfect for busy days when you still want food that feels special:

Craving another Italian-inspired dish that works beautifully for lunches and make-ahead meals? Try this high-protein Italian pasta salad that’s perfect for busy weeks—it’s hearty, filling, and just as crave-worthy.
If you enjoy chicken salads with a little zing, you might also fall hard for this dill pickle chicken salad with tons of flavor and crunch. It’s different, fun, and just as easy to throw together.
Since this salad shines on bread, rolls, or wraps, don’t miss these rotisserie chicken sandwich ideas for quick and satisfying meals. Perfect when leftovers need a glow-up.
And for a cozy Italian-style dinner to balance lighter meals, this slow cooker Italian meatballs recipe simmered low and slow is always a family favorite.
Want to explore another delicious take on this same idea? You may also enjoy this Italian grinder chicken salad variation with classic deli flavors for even more inspiration.

It’s all about keeping things simple, flavorful, and comforting—because meals should work with your life, not against it.