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Refreshing Chicken Waldorf Salad
This Chicken Waldorf Salad is a delightful combination of juicy chicken, crunchy apples, crisp celery, and sweet grapes, all tossed in a creamy, flavorful dressing. A perfect balance of textures and flavors, this dish is light, refreshing, and satisfying—ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a side.
Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a casual family meal, or a potluck, this classic salad is sure to impress. The natural sweetness from the fruit, the crunch from the nuts, and the creamy dressing come together beautifully for a dish that never goes out of style!
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Waldorf Salad
There are so many reasons to love this classic dish:
Made with wholesome, fresh ingredients Quick and easy—ready in just 5 minutes! Packed with protein and nutrients Perfect for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or as a side A great way to use up leftover chicken Customizable with different fruits, nuts, or dressings
If you love this, check out our Hearty Chicken Salad for another flavorful and nutritious option!
Ingredients & Swaps
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Chicken Waldorf Salad:
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Chicken: Use cooked and shredded or diced chicken breast for the best texture.
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Apple: Choose a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a refreshing crunch.
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Grapes: Red or green seedless grapes, halved, add natural sweetness.
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Celery: Provides a crisp, fresh bite.
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Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch—feel free to swap them out based on preference.
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Dressing: A creamy blend of Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a light yet flavorful coating.
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Herbs (Optional): Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Flavor & Texture
This Chicken Waldorf Salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures:
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Savory & Sweet: The tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of apples and grapes.
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Crisp & Crunchy: Fresh apples and celery bring a satisfying crunch, while walnuts or pecans add a nutty depth.
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Creamy & Smooth: The light and flavorful dressing ties everything together for a refreshing, well-rounded bite.
How to Make It
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Prep the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add diced chicken, chopped apples, halved grapes, celery, and walnuts.
Step 3: Toss & Coat
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve on crisp lettuce leaves, as a sandwich filling, or with whole-grain crackers.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Waldorf Salad
Use high-quality ingredients—especially fresh chicken and crisp apples. Chop ingredients evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect mix of flavors. Toss gently to avoid crushing the ingredients. Serve fresh for the best taste and texture.
Creative Variations & Flavor Boosters
Want to give your Chicken Waldorf Salad a new twist? Try these add-ins and variations:
Sweeten it up: Stir in a tablespoon of honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
Switch up the fruit: Replace fresh grapes with dried cranberries for a tangy contrast.
Extra crunch: Add more diced celery for an even crispier bite.
Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives can add a burst of freshness.
Serving & Storage Tips
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
On a bed of lettuce for a light and refreshing meal.
As a sandwich filling between slices of whole-grain bread.
Wrapped up in a tortilla for an easy grab-and-go meal.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the freshest taste, stir before serving.
FAQs: Common Questions Answered
What’s the best chicken for this salad?
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice, but any cooked and shredded chicken—like grilled or poached—works well.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! You can make it ahead of time, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to serve it fresh.
Which apple variety works best?
Go for crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady to balance the sweetness of the grapes.
Kitchen Essentials for This Recipe
Mixing Bowls: A set of durable glass mixing bowls is perfect for tossing all the ingredients together with ease. Sharp Knife: A good quality knife ensures clean, even cuts for your apples, celery, and chicken. Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board to keep prep neat and organized.
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