Chicken Salad With Grapes Recipe

Easy Tangy Chicken Salad With Grapes Recipe for Sunny Days

Crisp summer days call for light, refreshing meals that burst with unexpected chicken salad with grapes flavor combinations.

This delightful recipe blends tender, juicy chicken with sweet, plump grapes for a delectable twist on a classic dish.

Creamy mayonnaise and crunchy celery provide perfect texture contrast that makes every bite irresistible.

Chopped nuts add a delightful crunch that elevates the entire salad experience.

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten the mix with their vibrant green notes.

Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this salad works brilliantly as a light lunch or elegant party appetizer.

Serve chilled and watch everyone ask for seconds.

FAQs

  • What does tarragon bring to this chicken salad?

Tarragon adds a subtle, sweet licorice-like flavor that complements the chicken and provides a fresh, herbal note to the salad.

  • Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works perfectly and can make the dressing slightly thicker and tangier, adding extra creaminess to the chicken salad.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chicken salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or make-ahead meals.

  • How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make a lighter version, use low-fat yogurt and mayonnaise, and reduce the amount of dressing you add to the chicken mixture.

Why Chicken Salad With Grapes Stands Out

  • Indulge Chocolate Bliss: A decadent treat that satisfies the deepest chocolate cravings with minimal kitchen effort and maximum flavor.
  • Create Stress-Free Dessert: No baking required, making this recipe perfect for novice cooks or anyone wanting a quick sweet solution without complicated techniques.
  • Customize with Creativity: Flexible recipe allows adding crushed cookies or other mix-ins, transforming the basic dessert into a personalized chocolate experience that keeps everyone excited.
  • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an ideal dessert for family gatherings, kids' parties, or casual weekend treats that everyone will love.

What Goes Into Chicken Grape Salad Mix

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Tender and cooked protein that forms the main component of the salad.
  • Tarragon: Fresh herb that adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the chicken salad.
Dressing Components:
  • Yogurt, Mayonnaise: Creamy base that provides richness and smooth texture to the salad.
  • White Wine Vinegar: Tangy ingredient that brightens the overall flavor profile.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a sharp and zesty undertone to the dressing.
  • Honey: Provides a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory elements.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
Fresh Add-Ins:
  • Grapes: Sweet and juicy fruit that adds a burst of freshness and subtle sweetness.
  • Red Onion, Celery: Crisp vegetables that contribute crunch and additional flavor layers.
  • Nuts (Optional): Toasted nuts provide a delightful nutty crunch and extra texture.
Serving Options:
  • Croissants, Rolls: Soft bread choices for serving the chicken salad.

How to Make Chicken Salad With Grapes

Step 1: Prepare Nutty Crunch

If using nuts, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Toss nuts into the pan and toast for about 3 minutes until they release a delightful aroma.

Remove from heat and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Dressing

Grab a large mixing bowl and add these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Plain yogurt
  • Mayonnaise
  • White wine vinegar
  • Dijon mustard
  • Honey
  • Salt

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.

Sprinkle in some pepper and adjust salt to your taste preference.

Step 3: Mix Hearty Chicken Salad

Toss these delectable ingredients into the creamy dressing:
  • Cooked chicken
  • Diced red onion
  • Chopped celery
  • Juicy grapes
  • Fresh tarragon
  • Cooled toasted nuts (if using)

Gently fold everything together, ensuring each ingredient gets coated with the tangy dressing.

Give it a quick taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Create Delightful Sandwich

Spread the chicken salad generously on croissants or soft rolls.

This refreshing and creamy chicken salad is ready to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds!

Notes for Creamy Chicken Grape Salad Fans

  • Toasting nuts releases their natural oils, enhancing their rich, nutty taste and adding a delightful crunch to your chicken salad.
  • Whisk yogurt and mayonnaise thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy base that coats ingredients evenly without lumps.
  • Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
  • Halve grapes for easier eating and to prevent them from rolling off your sandwich, ensuring a perfect bite every time.
  • Swap tarragon with fresh dill or chives if unavailable, maintaining the herb's bright, fresh flavor in the salad.

Swaps for Chicken Salad With Grapes Lovers

  • Vegan Protein Salad: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or chickpeas, using plant-based yogurt and vegan mayonnaise for a completely dairy-free version.
  • Mediterranean Herb Blend: Swap tarragon with fresh oregano and mint, adding cucumber and kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired chicken salad experience.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap: Skip bread and serve the salad inside large butter lettuce leaves, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining fresh flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Introduce diced jalapeños, replace white wine vinegar with lime juice, and mix in chopped cilantro for a zesty southwestern chicken salad variation.

Best Sides for Chicken Grape Salad Bowls

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc with light, refreshing notes that complement the salad's creamy texture and sweet grape elements.
  • Serve alongside Sparkling Water: Add a slice of lemon or cucumber to enhance the drink's brightness and provide a clean, palate-cleansing accompaniment to the rich chicken salad.
  • Complement with Artisan Bread: Choose a light sourdough or ciabatta to add a crunchy texture that contrasts with the smooth, creamy chicken salad filling.
  • Match with Fresh Salad Greens: Prepare a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken salad and add extra nutritional value to the meal.

How to Store Chicken Grape Salad Easily

  • Store chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Do not freeze this salad as yogurt, mayonnaise, and grapes will separate and lose their creamy texture when thawed.
  • Gently bring chicken salad to room temperature before serving. Stir well to redistribute ingredients and restore original consistency.
  • For best taste, consume within 2 days and always use clean utensils when scooping to prevent contamination.
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Chicken Salad With Grapes Recipe

Chicken Salad With Grapes Recipe


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4.7 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent chicken salad with grapes blends crisp textures and sweet-savory flavors for a refreshing lunch delight. Juicy grapes and tender chicken create a perfect harmony that satisfies your midday craving with elegant simplicity.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2.5 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1/2 cup grapes, halved

Vegetables and Herbs:

  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
  • 1.5 tablespoons tarragon, chopped

Dressing and Extras:

  • 1/4 cup + 1/8 cup light mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup + 1/8 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 46 croissants or rolls of your choice

Instructions

  1. Carefully toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes, releasing their aromatic oils. Remove from heat and let cool completely to preserve their crisp texture.
  2. Whisk yogurt, mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt in a spacious mixing bowl until the dressing becomes silky and uniform. Customize the flavor profile by adding freshly ground pepper and additional salt to taste.
  3. Gently fold shredded chicken, finely diced red onion, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and fragrant tarragon into the creamy dressing. Incorporate the cooled toasted nuts if desired, ensuring each ingredient is evenly coated and distributed throughout the salad.
  4. Present the chicken salad atop fresh croissants or soft rolls, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of nuts for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Toast nuts in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor and crunch, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier, lighter version that still maintains creamy texture.
  • Consider using rotisserie chicken for quick preparation and added convenience without sacrificing taste.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate for better flavor melding, allowing ingredients to develop deeper taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 371 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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