If you’re on the hunt for a delightfully fresh lunch that feels both special and easy to throw together, this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture juicy, tender chicken mingling with sweet grapes and the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly balances every bite. It’s a classic that somehow manages to be comforting and fancy at once, making it a go-to for quick meals, picnics, or even casual entertaining. Once you try this, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding crunch, sweetness, creaminess, or a burst of fresh flavor. Together, they create a symphony of textures and tastes that always impress.
- Slivered almonds or walnuts (1/4 cup): Toasting these nuts brings out their natural oils and adds a warm crunch to every bite.
- Light mayonnaise (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Provides creaminess without weighing down the salad.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Adds tang and lightness, balancing the richness of the mayo.
- White wine vinegar (1 teaspoon): Injects a gentle acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle kick and depth to the dressing.
- Honey (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch to enhance sweetness and complement the grapes.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.
- Cooked chicken (2 1/2 cups, shredded or diced): The hearty base of the salad, tender and juicy.
- Red onion (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Adds a sharp bite and a pop of color.
- Celery (1/4 cup, diced): Gives a refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness.
- Grapes (1/2 cup, halved): Sweet bursts of juiciness that make each bite exciting.
- Tarragon (1 1/2 tablespoons, chopped): An herbal note that elevates the salad’s complexity.
- Croissants or rolls (4-6): Perfect vehicles to turn this salad into a satisfying sandwich.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Nuts
Start by warming a small skillet over medium heat to toast your choice of almonds or walnuts. Toasting them for about 3 minutes until fragrant unlocks their flavor and brings a lovely crunch, which is a hallmark of this salad. Make sure to cool them completely before mixing to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. This mixture creates a creamy yet tangy dressing that beautifully ties all the ingredients together. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding pepper and more salt if needed to suit your preference.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the dressing, along with the red onion, celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and toasted nuts. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat each ingredient with the dressing, ensuring every bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements. Give it a final seasoning check before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh tarragon leaves or a sprinkle of extra toasted nuts on top can bring a beautiful finishing touch. A few crisp lettuce leaves work wonders too, offering a fresh, vibrant contrast when serving the salad on croissants or rolls.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy carrot sticks, or even a light soup. The versatility of the dish means you can keep the sides fresh and easy, letting the salad truly shine as the star of your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or avocado halves for vibrant individual portions. You can also transform it into elegant finger sandwiches by spreading it on mini croissants or small pita pockets, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the croissants or rolls separate to prevent sogginess and maintain freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the grapes and dressing lose their texture and freshness after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. Just give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing before serving if it’s been chilled.
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts and almonds are the classic choices here, but pecans or pistachios would also bring a unique flavor and crunch. Just toast them lightly to enhance their aroma.
Is it okay to use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds plenty of flavor. Just shred or dice it before mixing it in to ensure every bite is tender and delicious.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt for something else?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or more mayonnaise, but Greek yogurt provides a lighter, tangier dressing that balances well with the other ingredients.
How do I keep the grapes from making the salad watery?
Choose firm, fresh grapes and slice them just before mixing the salad. Removing seeds and gently patting them dry helps prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative and use vegan mayo and yogurt options. The grapes and nuts still deliver fantastic texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that never gets old. Its lovely balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re packing lunch or hostessing a casual brunch. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite easy, satisfying meals.
Print
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Toasted Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes (toasting nuts, optional)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing Chicken Salad with Grapes recipe combines tender cooked chicken with sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise. Enhanced with tarragon and optional toasted nuts, it’s perfect for sandwiches or a light meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tarragon, chopped
- 4–6 croissants or rolls of your choice
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/8 cup light mayonnaise (extra)
- 1/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/8 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (extra)
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Optional
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts
Instructions
- Toast Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, toast them in a small skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk until fully combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded or diced chicken, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and cooled toasted nuts (if using) to the dressing. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken salad onto croissants or your preferred rolls. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing cold sandwich filling. Enjoy!
Notes
- Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the salad.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
- For best results, use cooked chicken that is chilled or at room temperature.
- This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to add other mix-ins like chopped apples or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness.
