Chicken Salad with Grapes and Apples

Chicken salad with grapes and apples is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, juicy fruits, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for lunches, potlucks, or light dinners, this salad is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal cooking required.
• Healthy and Versatile: Packed with protein and fruit, it’s great as a sandwich filling, salad topper, or standalone dish.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
• 1 medium apple, diced (use a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chives

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, grapes, apple, celery, and nuts. Toss gently to mix.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve: Serve chilled on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling on croissants or bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Skip the Greek yogurt and use all mayonnaise or a dairy-free alternative.
• Extra Crunch: Add diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or sunflower seeds.
• Tropical Twist: Replace grapes with pineapple chunks and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
• Herbed Flavor: Mix in fresh dill, tarragon, or parsley for a burst of herbal flavor.
• Lighter Option: Use all Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise for fewer calories.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fruits and dressing may change.
• Reheating: Serve cold or at room temperature; no reheating required.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor.

2. What kind of apple works best?

Crisp and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are ideal.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling as the flavors meld together.

4. Can I use a different nut?

Yes, almonds, cashews, or pistachios are excellent alternatives to pecans or walnuts.

5. How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss the diced apples in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

6. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

You can use plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a combination of both for a healthier option.

7. Can I add dried fruit?

Yes, dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots add a nice chewy texture.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients like mayonnaise are certified gluten-free.

9. How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use vegan mayonnaise, and omit the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative.

10. Can I serve this warm?

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Chicken salad with grapes and apples is a refreshing twist on a classic dish. With its blend of sweet and savory flavors and crunchy textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, this dish is both versatile and delicious. Try it today for a satisfying and wholesome meal!

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