If you love the bold, savory flavors of an Italian-style chicken sub, this Chicken Sub Salad delivers everything you crave—without the bread. It combines tender shredded chicken, chopped salami, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini, all brought together with a tangy, creamy dressing that tastes just like your favorite deli sandwich.
This salad is quick to prepare, full of texture and flavor, and incredibly versatile. Serve it on sandwich rolls, over greens, in wraps, or straight from the bowl. It’s perfect for lunch, light dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sub Salad
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Inspired by classic deli subs
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Bold, tangy, savory flavors
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Quick and easy, no cooking required
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Great for meal prep and leftovers
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Delicious served multiple ways
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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4 oz salami, roughly chopped
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⅓ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
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¼ cup pepperoncini, drained and chopped
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1 tablespoon pepperoncini brine
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1 tablespoon roasted red pepper brine
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½ cup mayonnaise
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
(Ingredient amounts may be adjusted to taste.)
How to Make Chicken Sub Salad
Step 1: Combine the Mix-Ins
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped salami, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Add the mayonnaise, pepperoncini brine, roasted red pepper brine, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Season and Chill
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
Stir once more before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve as:
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A sandwich filling
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A wrap or pita filling
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A salad topping over lettuce
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A low-carb bowl with vegetables
Tips for Best Results
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Rotisserie chicken works especially well
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Chop ingredients evenly for the best texture
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Chill before serving for deeper flavor
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Start light on salt—the brines add natural seasoning
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Taste and adjust acidity as needed
Variations
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Extra cheesy: Add diced provolone or mozzarella
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Spicy: Use hot pepperoncini or add crushed red pepper
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Lighter: Replace part of the mayo with Greek yogurt
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Crunchy: Add diced celery or shredded lettuce
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Low-carb: Serve in lettuce cups
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Stir before serving if made ahead
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Not recommended for freezing
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Sub Salad pairs well with:
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Crusty rolls or hoagie buns
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Crackers or toasted bread
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Fresh fruit or chips
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Simple green salads
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Sub Salad takes everything you love about a deli sandwich—savory meats, tangy peppers, and bold seasoning—and turns it into a simple, satisfying dish you can enjoy any time. Easy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe that earns a regular spot in your rotation.