If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines simplicity with a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors, this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s a perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken mingling with sweet, juicy grapes and the satisfying crunch of walnuts all wrapped in a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re packing a quick lunch, throwing together a light dinner, or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe delivers both taste and texture with ease. Ready in mere minutes, it’s a fresh twist on classic chicken salad that you’ll find yourself returning to over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this list plays a crucial role in crafting a well-rounded chicken salad. From the protein-packed chicken to the crunchy nuts and crisp vegetables, every component adds its own special touch to the dish’s delightful texture and flavor profile.
- Chicken breast (1 1/2 pounds, cooked and diced or shredded): This is the hearty, savory base of the salad—rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience and extra flavor.
- Red onion (1 small, finely diced): Adds a mild sharpness and beautiful color contrast without overpowering the mix.
- Celery (2 stalks, finely chopped): Brings crispness and a refreshing crunch that lightens every bite.
- Grapes (1 cup, halved): The star sweet note that bursts with juicy freshness and unexpected delight.
- Walnuts (3/4 cup, chopped): Offers a nutty crunch, enriching the texture and adding depth.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creates the creamy foundation of the dressing, binding everything beautifully.
- Plain yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy brightness, balancing the richness and keeping the dressing light.
- Fresh thyme (3 sprigs, chopped): Lends an earthy herbal hint that elevates the overall flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick to brighten the salad.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start with cooked chicken breast—whether you bake, air fry, sous vide, or pick up a store-bought rotisserie chicken, the key is to ensure it’s fully cooked and nicely cooled. Then, cut the chicken into small cubes or shred it, depending on your preferred bite-sized texture. This is the hearty base that soaks up all the delicious flavors to come.
Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the diced chicken, finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and halved grapes. Mixing gently ensures the flavors start to mingle without mashing the grapes or onions, preserving that delightful burst of freshness and crunch.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Dressing
Pour in the mayonnaise and plain yogurt, then stir thoroughly to coat each bite evenly. This creamy combination gives the salad its lush texture while balancing the sweet and savory elements perfectly. Make sure every piece of chicken and vegetable wears a glossy, flavorful jacket.
Step 4: Incorporate Walnuts, Thyme, and Seasoning
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and fresh thyme. These final touches inject a nutty crunch and a subtle herbal aroma that elevate the salad from ordinary to absolutely crave-worthy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting little by little to suit your palate.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Transfer your freshly made chicken salad to a serving dish. You can serve it immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors or pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to harmonize beautifully, making every bite even more satisfying.
How to Serve Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or a small sprig of thyme on top for an inviting visual and flavor boost. A touch of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving adds a subtle aroma that tantalizes the senses.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, fresh fruit, or even a simple baguette. It also shines alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup, making for a balanced and colorful meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, serve the chicken salad stuffed inside ripe avocado halves, hollowed tomatoes, or crunchy endive leaves. You can also scoop it into mini phyllo cups or stack it in a sandwich or wrap with leafy greens for an elegant, handheld option perfect for picnics or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days. Be mindful of the original storage time of your cooked chicken to ensure safety and quality.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh or chilled but not frozen. The mayonnaise and fresh veggies don’t fare well after freezing and thawing, as they can separate or become soggy, altering the perfect texture.
Reheating
Because this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, stir the salad gently or leave it out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off if preferred.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute canned chicken when you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly and consider cutting back on added salt, because canned chicken often contains extra sodium.
Why add yogurt instead of using all mayonnaise?
Yogurt lightens the dressing and adds a tangy brightness that complements the sweetness of the grapes, while cutting down on the richness and calories from mayo alone.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Swap in Greek yogurt for regular yogurt and reduce the mayo slightly, or use a light mayo version. Adding extra celery and grapes also boosts the veggie and fruit content, enhancing both nutrition and texture.
My chicken salad seems dry—what should I do?
Simply add a bit more mayonnaise or yogurt, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess. Keep in mind the salad will absorb some moisture if chilled for a while, so a little extra dressing helps maintain that luscious texture.
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, sliced almonds, or even sunflower seeds make great alternatives if you want to switch things up or accommodate nut allergies.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you find this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts Recipe as delightful and dependable as I do. It’s a fresh, flavorful combination that feels special but comes together in no time at all—perfect for any occasion, big or small. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes one of your go-to dishes that friends and family can’t get enough of!
Print
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Salad with Grapes is a perfect medley of tender chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and walnuts, mixed with a creamy mayonnaise-yogurt dressing. Light and refreshing, this salad is a versatile dish, great for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch. Healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare!
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and diced (or shredded)
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 3 sprigs thyme, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by prepping the cooked chicken breast. You can bake, air fry, sous vide, or use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, cut the chicken into small cubes or shred it according to your preference.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and halved grapes. Mix them together thoroughly.
- Make the Dressing: Add mayonnaise and plain yogurt to the bowl. Mix until all the chicken and other ingredients are evenly coated.
- Add Crunch and Seasoning: Fold in the chopped walnuts and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve or Chill: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. Alternatively, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes if you prefer it chilled.
Notes
- To cook chicken, you may use baked, sous vide, or air fryer chicken breast. Instant Pot chicken breast is also an effortless option.
- Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If using leftover chicken, ensure that you consider its storage duration prior to making the salad.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients up to 4 days in advance, storing them separately. Whisk the dressing ingredients together only when ready to serve for best freshness.
- Use firm, seedless red or purple grapes for best flavor and color.
- If the salad seems dry after mixing, add more mayonnaise or yogurt one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
