Chicken Waldorf Salad

Chicken Waldorf Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s a delicious mix of textures and flavors that works beautifully for lunch, brunch, or a light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s crisp, creamy, and so satisfying without being heavy. The sweet fruit pairs perfectly with savory chicken and the tangy, creamy dressing pulls it all together. It’s great for meal prep, easy to customize, and feels both wholesome and indulgent. I enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or even just straight from the bowl.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie work great)

• Apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), chopped

• Red or green grapes, halved

• Celery, finely chopped

• Walnuts, toasted and chopped

• Mayonnaise

• Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

• Lemon juice

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Romaine lettuce or mixed greens (optional, for serving)

directions

1. I start by combining the diced chicken, chopped apples, halved grapes, celery, and toasted walnuts in a large mixing bowl.

2. In a separate small bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. I pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

4. I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. I serve it chilled over lettuce, in a sandwich or wrap, or on its own.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking if the chicken is already cooked.

Variations

Sometimes I add dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness. If I want a dairy-free version, I use just mayo or a vegan mayo substitute. I’ve also used pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. When I want it heartier, I mix in cooked quinoa or serve it in pita pockets.

storage/reheating

I store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat it—it’s best enjoyed cold. If prepping ahead, I wait to add the nuts until just before serving to keep them crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, I’ve used canned chicken in a pinch. I just drain it well and break it up gently before mixing it in.

What’s the best apple to use?

I prefer a crisp, slightly tart apple like Granny Smith or a sweet-tart one like Honeycrisp for balance.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. It holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, though the apples may brown slightly.

Can I use all mayo in the dressing?

Yes, I sometimes skip the yogurt and just use mayo for a richer, classic flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the dressing ingredients are gluten-free, the salad itself naturally is.

Conclusion

Chicken Waldorf Salad is a timeless, delicious combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy. I love how simple it is to put together, yet how fresh and elegant it feels. Whether I’m making it for a quick lunch or packing it for a picnic, it’s a go-to that never disappoints.

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