Chicken Salad Recipe with Grapes: A Classic Sweet and Savory Dish
If you’re searching for the perfect chicken salad recipe with grapes, you’re in for a treat. This timeless dish combines tender chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re making lunch for the week, hosting a bridal shower, or preparing a quick dinner, this chicken salad is always a hit.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need—from ingredient tips and variations to serving suggestions and storage instructions—all centered around making the best chicken salad with grapes at home.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe with Grapes
- Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet grapes complement savory chicken and creamy mayo.
- Great for meal prep: Stores well in the fridge for a few days.
- Versatile: Enjoy it in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or just by the spoonful.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with nuts, herbs, or a yogurt-based dressing.
Ingredients for Chicken Salad with Grapes
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (breast or thigh meat)
- 1 cup red grapes, halved (green grapes also work)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)
How to Make Chicken Salad with Grapes
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even poached chicken. Chop or shred into bite-sized pieces. Let it cool if it’s freshly cooked.
Step 2: Slice the Grapes
Halve the grapes lengthwise for the best texture. You can use red or green grapes—or a mix—for added color and flavor.
Step 3: Chop the Celery and Nuts
Finely chop the celery for that perfect crunch. If using nuts, give them a rough chop and toast lightly for extra depth.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the chicken, grapes, celery, and nuts to the bowl. Gently fold the ingredients into the dressing until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Chill (Optional, but Recommended)
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Chicken Salad with Grapes Variations
1. Healthy Version
Swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt or go half-and-half. Add chopped apples for extra crunch and sweetness.
2. Curried Chicken Salad
Mix in 1 tsp of curry powder and use golden raisins instead of grapes. Add a dash of honey for balance.
3. Southern-Style Chicken Salad
Use only white meat chicken, sweet relish, and chopped boiled eggs. Serve with Ritz crackers.
4. No-Nut Version
If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer without, just leave them out or replace with sunflower seeds or chopped cucumber for crunch.
Best Chicken to Use
For a flavorful chicken salad, choose one of the following:
- Rotisserie chicken: Adds flavor and saves time.
- Poached chicken breasts: Mild, tender, and moist.
- Leftover grilled chicken: Adds a smoky depth to the salad.
Tip: Always cool the chicken completely before mixing it with the dressing to prevent a watery salad.
How to Serve Chicken Salad with Grapes
- In a sandwich: Stuff it into a buttery croissant or a crusty baguette.
- On a salad: Serve over a bed of greens for a low-carb lunch.
- With crackers: A fantastic option for entertaining.
- In lettuce wraps: Crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves work great.
- As a stuffed tomato: Hollow out tomatoes and spoon the salad inside for a beautiful brunch option.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day!
- Freezer: Not recommended, as the mayo and grapes do not thaw well.
- Meal prep tip: Keep the dressing separate if making ahead, and mix just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on ingredient brands and portions used.
FAQs About Chicken Salad with Grapes
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
What kind of grapes should I use?
Red seedless grapes are classic, but green grapes work just as well. Choose firm, ripe grapes for best texture.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—just use a dairy-free mayo or vegan alternative.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve it with.
Final Thoughts
This chicken salad recipe with grapes is one of those rare dishes that feels nostalgic and modern all at once. Whether you’re hosting guests or prepping lunches for the week, it’s a go-to meal that always satisfies.
With its balance of savory chicken, sweet grapes, crisp celery, and creamy dressing, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Try it once, and it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
