There’s something incredibly refreshing about a chicken salad, especially when it’s packed with vibrant flavors.
My Tangy Chicken Salad with Grapes combines tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and sweet juicy grapes for a delightful twist.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that dances on your palate.
Ingredient List
Let’s gather what we need for this Tangy Chicken Salad with Grapes. Don’t stress – I promise it’s simple!
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I use rotisserie for ease)
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (red or green work well)
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (substitute with sunflower seeds for allergies)
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey (use agave for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for zing!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- Lettuce leaves for serving (choose romaine or butter lettuce)
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken.
- Fold in 1 cup of halved seedless grapes, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion.
- Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (or omit nuts for a nut-free version).
- Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup of mayonnaise.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and the juice of half a lemon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together
- Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture.
- Gently fold everything until well combined.
- Chill the salad
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld together nicely.
- Serve
- Spoon the salad onto crisp lettuce leaves.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color.
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick option. I often toss in sliced apples (for extra crunch) or swap pecans with almonds if that’s what I have on hand.
- Dairy-Free Friendly: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free dressing. Your salad will still taste amazing!
- Adjusting Flavor: If you like it tangy, add more lemon juice or a splash of vinegar. Not a fan of sweet? Reduce the honey to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep: Make this salad a day in advance. It keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors deepen overnight. Just give it a good stir before serving.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Omit the red onion or chop it finely if your kids are picky. Adding a touch of honey can also tone down the tang for little ones.
- Serving Options: Serve it on whole grain bread for a hearty sandwich or as a filling for a wrap. My kids love it both ways!
Serving Suggestions
Don’t stress – I’ve got some great ideas to make serving this Tangy Chicken Salad with Grapes a breeze!
- Serve on Lettuce Wraps: Place the salad in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s fresh and fun!
- Put It On Toast: Slather the chicken salad on whole grain or sourdough bread for an easy sandwich. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Pair with Crackers: Serve with some crunchy whole grain crackers on the side for added texture.
- Top a Green Salad: Spoon the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty lunch option.
- Wrap It Up: Fill tortillas or wraps with the salad for a portable meal. Kids love these!
Time-Saving Hacks:
- Use pre-chopped veggies to save 10 minutes.
- Make the salad a day ahead for a convenient make-ahead option.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for my Tangy Chicken Salad with Grapes.
This salad is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you satisfied.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Notes:
- Protein Power: The chicken boosts your protein intake.
- Healthier Fats: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo for lower calories.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you want fewer sugars, reduce the honey.
This salad will not only taste amazing but also help you and your family feel great! Enjoy the balance of health and flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
I can’t get enough of this Tangy Chicken Salad with Grapes. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that keeps me coming back for more.
Whether I’m enjoying it for lunch or serving it at a gathering, it always impresses.
With its versatility and health benefits, this salad is a fantastic choice for any occasion.
I love that I can customize it to fit my taste or dietary needs. So why not give it a try? You just might find it becomes a staple in your kitchen too.