Why You’ll Love Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe
This chicken salad is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy. The juicy grapes add a touch of sweetness, while the toasted pecans give a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The creamy dressing brings everything together in a light yet rich way. Plus, it’s simple to make and versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in wraps, on bread, or as a standalone salad. It’s an easy and healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
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1 cup red grapes, halved
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1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon honey (optional)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken, halved grapes, and chopped pecans.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are coated evenly.
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If desired, garnish with fresh parsley.
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Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
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For a lighter version, use only Greek yogurt in place of the mayonnaise.
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Add some celery for extra crunch and freshness.
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Try using green grapes for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the red grapes.
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Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy flavor boost.
Storage/Reheating
This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed chilled, so if you want to prepare it ahead of time, simply make it in the morning and store it in the fridge until ready to serve. It’s not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the grapes and dressing may change upon thawing.
FAQs
How long can I store the chicken salad?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe. It’s a time-saver and adds extra flavor to the salad.
Is there a way to make this chicken salad lighter?
Yes, you can replace the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or a light version of mayonnaise to reduce calories.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Celery, cucumbers, or even avocado could be great additions to add more texture and flavor.
How can I make the dressing more tangy?
Add a bit more Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar to increase the tanginess of the dressing.
Can I use a different nut besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts, almonds, or even cashews could be used in place of pecans.
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
You can use any cooked chicken, such as grilled chicken breast, poached chicken, or even rotisserie chicken.
How do I make this salad more filling?
You can serve the salad on top of a bed of mixed greens or add some cooked quinoa for extra protein and fiber.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this chicken salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, this recipe is gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. The blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a picnic treat, or a fresh dinner option, this recipe delivers on taste and ease. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make it your own!
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
This refreshing Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a perfect blend of savory chicken, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic, it’s packed with flavor and texture. Easy to make and ready in minutes, this salad is a healthy, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 cup red grapes (halved)
- 1/2 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for a lighter version)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup celery (chopped, optional)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, optional for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved grapes, and chopped pecans.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Add the chopped celery and mix gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Notes
- For a lower-calorie version, use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Add more or less honey depending on your sweetness preference.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
