This Chicken Waldorf salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a versatile option for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. The creamy dressing complements the fresh ingredients, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal!
Chicken Waldorf Salad is a classic American recipe that combines tender chicken, crisp apples, celery, and grapes with creamy mayonnaise and pecans. It’s a light and refreshing salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch. The sweet and tangy flavors, along with the satisfying crunch of the apples and celery, make it a timeless favorite.
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Serve it for a quick and easy lunch, light dinner, side dish, or as meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you will love this chicken Waldorf salad recipe. Here are just a few:
- It is made with simple, fresh ingredients.
- This chicken salad is a healthy and nutritious meal.
- It is easy to make, even for beginners.
- It is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways.
- Everything comes together in just 5 minutes.
- This is a great way to use up leftover chicken.
- This recipe is high in protein.
- Great for lunch, dinner, side dishes, and meal prep.
- Check out this Loaded Chicken Salad for another healthy lunch recipe!
Ingredients & Substitutes
These are the ingredients for this Chicken Waldorf salad. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the entire recipe.
First, use cooked chicken breast. Dice or shred the chicken.
Use a crisp apple type. Honey crisp and Granny Smith work best for chicken salad.
Cut the seedless grapes in half. Red and green both work well.
Dice the celery.
For some added crunch, add in walnuts or pecans.
To make the dressing, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Finally, top with fresh herbs if desired.
Taste & Texture
Chicken Waldorf salad has a delicious flavor that is both sweet and savory.
The chicken is tender and juicy, and the apples add a crispness and natural sweetness.
The grapes add a burst of fruity flavor, and the walnuts or pecans provide a nutty crunch.
The dressing is creamy and flavorful. It brings all of the ingredients together perfectly!
How to Make
Step 1
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Step 2
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, apple, grapes, celery, and walnuts.
Step 3
Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich, or with whole-grain crackers!
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips and tricks to help you make the perfect chicken Waldorf salad:
Use good quality ingredients, especially the chicken and apples.
Be sure to chop the ingredients into small, uniform pieces.
Gently toss the ingredients together so that they do not become mushy.
Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
There are many different ways to flavor chicken Waldorf salad. Here are a few ideas:
Add a tablespoon of honey to the dressing for a sweeter flavor.
Use dried cranberries instead of fresh grapes.
Add a handful of chopped celery for a crunchier texture.
Stir in a tablespoon of chopped parsley for a fresh flavor.
How to Serve & Store
Chicken Waldorf salad can be served in many different ways.
It is delicious served on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or as a wrap.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rotisserie chicken is a great option because it is already cooked and shredded. Or, use up leftover grilled chicken.
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time, but it is best to serve it immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady are ideal for balancing the sweetness of grapes.
Equipment Needed
Pyrex 3 Glass Mixing Bowls: We always use these mixing bowls when making a big batch of chicken Waldorf salad.
You May Also Enjoy
If you enjoyed this Chicken Waldorf salad recipe, please leave a rating and comment! For more inspiration, check out my Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. For 5 free weekly meal plans and more free resources, sign up to receive my free newsletter! Check out these Dinner Recipes for more healthy and easy family dinner ideas.
