Why settle for ordinary when you can have a chicken salad bursting with flavor? This chicken salad recipe with grapes is a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements. Tender shredded chicken pairs beautifully with juicy grapes, crisp celery, and nutty walnuts for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is versatile.

Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or need a quick, crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in no time!

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, quartered
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Two forks (for shredding chicken)
Mixing spoon

How to Make This Recipe?

Making this chicken salad is so simple, yet it delivers incredible flavor. Each ingredient adds a special touch to create a perfect combination of textures and tastes. Follow these easy steps to bring it all together.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

Start by mixing the mayonnaise or your chosen substitute (like sour cream or Greek yogurt) with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped parsley in a large bowl. This base coats everything beautifully and enhances the salad’s creaminess.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Shred the cooked chicken using two forks instead of chopping it. Shredding creates more surface area for the sauce to cling to, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Add it to the bowl with the sauce.

Step 3: Add Fresh Ingredients

Quarter the red grapes and dice the celery finely to maintain a balanced texture. Toss these along with the diced red onion and chopped walnuts into the bowl. The grapes add a burst of sweetness, while celery provides crunch, and walnuts offer a nutty richness.

Step 4: Mix and Chill

Mix all the ingredients gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is well-combined. For the best flavor, chill the salad in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why I Love Making This Recipe?

I absolutely adore this recipe because it reminds me of the lunches my mom used to pack when I was a kid. The sweetness from the grapes mixed with the creamy dressing always felt luxurious. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when I need a quick meal for both myself and guests. It’s simple to prepare but feels gourmet every single time!

Tips and Variations

Switching things up with this recipe is super easy, and experimenting can be so much fun. Here’s what has worked well for me:

Add diced apples or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
Swap walnuts for pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Try fresh herbs like dill or mint if parsley isn’t your thing.
For a lighter twist, go for lettuce wraps instead of sandwiches.
If you love tangy flavors, use a mix of Greek yogurt and mayo for the sauce.

A little creativity can make this dish even more magical. I love how adaptable it is to whatever ingredients I have in my fridge!

Serving Suggestions

This chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it on toasted bread for a hearty sandwich, spoon it onto a bed of greens for a refreshing salad, or pair it with crackers as a quick and easy snack. If you’re hosting a party, serve it in small lettuce cups for a convenient and beautiful appetizer.

Storage and Leftovers

Store this chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If it starts to feel a tad dry after a day or two, stir in a little extra mayo or yogurt to refresh it. Since this recipe is meant to be served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a quick stir and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calories	292
Protein	13g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fat	25g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This recipe is straightforward, but a few small mistakes can impact its taste and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

Overseasoning the base of the dressing without tasting, especially if using pre-seasoned chicken like rotisserie. Always season gradually.
Chopping the chicken instead of shredding it. Shredding helps the sauce cling better to the meat, elevating the dish overall.
Using watery substitutes like low-fat Greek yogurt, which might dilute the flavors.
Overloading the bowl with too many extras like grapes or nuts, as this can throw off the balance.

Following these tips will guarantee a perfectly creamy, crunchy, and flavorful chicken salad every time. Enjoy!

Ash Tyrrell