Best Chicken Salad with Grapes

This chicken salad is easy to make yet feels a bit special every time I serve it It is light and loaded with fresh flavors unlike some of the heavier versions I grew up eating It is perfect for meal prep and always gets rave reviews when I bring it to potlucks or family gatherings

I first discovered this salad when I was trying to lighten up classic recipes without sacrificing flavor My kids now request it for their lunches and it is just as good on a croissant as it is in lettuce cups

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast diced: Tender lean protein that holds its shape Use rotisserie or homecooked for best flavor
• Seedless red grapes halved: Sweet pop of flavor and color Choose firm grapes with no wrinkles
• Celery sliced: Crisp fresh bite and color for balance Pick celery stalks that are bright green and snap easily
• Red onion finely chopped: Adds zing and color Opt for a firm onion with dark outer skin and no soft spots
• Pecans toasted and chopped: Brings warmth and crunch Toasting the pecans releases their oils and deepens flavor
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base Select full fat for the richest flavor
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Lightens the dressing with tang Plain Greek yogurt works well and adds protein
• Lemon juice: Brightens and lifts the creamy dressing Use fresh lemon for vibrant acidity
• Dill finely chopped: Gives the salad a fresh herby note Go for fresh dill whenever possible
• Salt: Brings all the flavors together Use fine sea salt for best seasoning
• Black pepper: Adds a punch of heat Fresh cracked pepper will taste best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Pecans:

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium low heat tossing frequently for about four minutes until golden and fragrant Transfer to a cutting board chop coarsely and let cool This extra step is worth it for the flavor it adds

Combine the Salad Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine the diced chicken halved grapes sliced celery chopped red onion and cooled chopped pecans Make sure everything is in bite sized pieces for the best texture

Mix the Dressing:

In a small bowl stir together mayonnaise sour cream or Greek yogurt lemon juice dill salt and pepper Whisk until smooth and taste for seasoning If you prefer a tangier dressing add a bit more lemon juice

Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture Start with two thirds and toss gently to coat Add more dressing if you want it creamier Mix until every bite is evenly coated Chill in the fridge for at least twenty minutes for the flavors to meld

Serve or Store:

Enjoy the salad right away or cover and refrigerate for three to four days It makes great leftovers on sandwiches or as a snack with crackers

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I love the sweet crunch of the grapes in this recipe The first time I made it my husband was skeptical but now he always asks for extra grapes for that perfect bite One time my kids helped me toast the pecans and it filled the kitchen with the most irresistible aroma

Storage Tips

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator It will keep well for up to four days The flavors get better as they meld but if it seems a bit dry after storing just stir in a spoonful of extra mayonnaise or yogurt before serving Keep nuts separate if you want to maintain maximum crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out pecans for almonds walnuts or even cashews if desired If you do not have grapes diced apples or dried cranberries work just as well For a lighter onion flavor use chives or sweet onion Greek yogurt can take the place of sour cream for a boost of protein and less fat Leftover roasted turkey also works in place of chicken

Serving Suggestions

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This salad is delicious spooned into buttery croissants for lunch or brunch Try it wrapped in a large lettuce leaf for a low carb meal Serve on top of mixed greens or with crackers as a snack We even like it tucked into pita pockets on busy school mornings

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken salad became popular in the United States in the late nineteenth century when cooks started combining leftovers with mayonnaise or creamy dressings Today it is an American picnic staple and every family seems to have their own signature twist I love making this version for its freshness and the pop of color from grapes and dill

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of chicken works best?

Cooked chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie or leftover roast chicken adds great flavor and saves time.

→ How can I make this salad lighter?

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayonnaise for a tangy, reduced-calorie alternative.

→ Can I prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, this salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, making it excellent for meal prep.

→ Are there nut-free options?

Omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free version.

→ What can I serve this chicken salad with?

Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or simply with crackers for a quick and tasty meal.

→ Can I use canned chicken?

Canned chicken will work in a pinch, but freshly cooked chicken provides the best texture and flavor.