This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts is a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and crunchy textures, making it an irresistible choice for a satisfying meal.
The combination of tender shredded chicken and creamy mayonnaise or Greek yogurt provides a protein-packed foundation, perfect for muscle maintenance and satiety.
Grapes add a subtle sweetness along with antioxidants, while walnuts contribute heart-healthy fats and a pleasant crunch.
With low carbohydrates and moderate healthy fats, this salad works well for low-carb or paleo diets.
It’s also fiber-rich thanks to celery, onions, and grapes, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
Quick to assemble and versatile in serving options—on bread, in lettuce wraps, or over a green salad—it’s a perfect everyday recipe for busy lifestyles or meal prep, offering flavor, nutrition, and convenience all in one bowl.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Mixing Bowl Set
A large, sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining chicken, fruits, nuts, and dressing evenly. Beyond this recipe, these bowls are perfect for marinating, baking prep, and tossing salads.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp chef’s knife ensures precise dicing of celery, red onion, and grapes for consistent texture and flavor. Its versatility extends to slicing meats, fruits, and vegetables in countless recipes.
Cutting Board
A durable, easy-to-clean cutting board protects countertops and provides a safe surface for chopping all ingredients. Ideal for prep work in everyday cooking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of mayonnaise, nuts, and seasonings ensure perfect flavor balance every time. They’re indispensable for baking, cooking, and portion control.
Spatula or Spoon
A high-quality spatula or wooden spoon allows gentle folding of ingredients, keeping chicken tender and preventing overmixing. Perfect for mixing salads, batters, and sauces.
15-Minute Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 spatula or spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise or sour cream/Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1/2 cup red grapes halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup celery diced
- 1/4 cup walnuts chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of mayonnaise (or your choice of Greek yogurt or sour cream) with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly seasoned, creating a creamy, flavorful base that will coat the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- Chop the Ingredients: Carefully dice 1/4 cup of red onion and 1/2 cup of celery into small, uniform pieces. Halve or quarter 1/2 cup of red grapes, depending on size, to ensure every bite has a balanced burst of sweetness. Chop 1/4 cup of walnuts into small chunks, providing a crunchy texture throughout the salad.
- Combine the Salad Components: Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the prepared dressing in the mixing bowl. Gently fold in the diced onion, celery, halved grapes, and chopped walnuts. Stir carefully to coat all ingredients evenly without mashing the grapes or walnuts, ensuring a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning : Sample the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding extra salt or pepper to suit your preference. Once satisfied, serve immediately on toasted bread, fresh lettuce wraps, or over a green salad for a low-carb option, or transfer to an airtight container for meal prep and refrigerate up to three days.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.
- Mayo alternatives like Greek yogurt or sour cream reduce fat and add a tangy flavor.
- Mix in different fruits such as apples, dried apricots, or strawberries to vary sweetness.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach plain chicken for a lighter, less salty option.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for easy meal prep.
Chef’s Secrets: Insider Tips Revealed
To make this chicken salad truly outstanding, balance textures and flavors carefully.
Choose crisp, fresh celery and juicy grapes for a contrast to tender chicken.
Toast the walnuts lightly to enhance their nutty aroma and add a subtle crunch.
For a creamier consistency, mix the dressing ahead of time and let the salad rest for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Using freshly chopped parsley instead of dried herbs brings a brighter, fresher flavor that elevates every bite.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Meal Pairings
This versatile chicken salad is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served atop a crisp green salad for a low-carb option.
Pair with whole-grain bread for added fiber or serve in lettuce cups for a paleo-friendly alternative.
It also works beautifully as a protein-packed side alongside soup or roasted vegetables, making it suitable for lunch, picnic, or casual dinner.
Garnish with extra walnuts or fresh herbs to elevate presentation and add visual appeal.
Storage Tips: Keep Salad Fresh Longer
Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Keep grapes separate if making in advance to prevent them from releasing excess juice and making the salad watery.
Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness.
For meal prep, portion individual servings in small containers for grab-and-go lunches.
Re-stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing and maintain a creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions: Common Recipe Answers
1. Can I use cooked chicken leftovers?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie or leftover poached chicken works perfectly and saves time, while still maintaining the flavor and protein content.
2. What can I substitute for walnuts?
Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds are excellent alternatives. Each provides a crunchy texture, though nuts vary slightly in flavor.
3. Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Yes, when served in lettuce wraps or on low-carb bread, it’s a delicious keto-friendly option with minimal carbs.
4. How can I make it creamier or tangier?
Adjust the dressing by adding more Greek yogurt for creaminess, or a squeeze of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang.
5. Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as grapes release water when thawed and the salad’s texture becomes mushy. Best to store in the fridge for up to three days.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by bowlofdelicious. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
