Chicken Waldorf Salad with Apples and Grapes is a classic, refreshing dish that perfectly balances protein, fruit, and a creamy dressing. This salad combines tender cooked chicken with crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all tossed in a light, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing.

Originally created in the Waldorf Hotel in New York, this salad has become a timeless favorite for lunch, brunch, or light dinners. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and bursting with contrasting textures and flavors that delight the palate.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is fresh, light, and flavorful, yet satisfying enough to be a complete meal. The combination of sweet grapes and apples with savory chicken and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect harmony. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in advance and enjoyed cold, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it’s a classic for a reason. It combines fresh, healthy ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness. It’s elegant, easy to prepare, and perfect for warm-weather meals or potlucks.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories (Approx.): 350 per serving
Course: Salad / Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
• ½ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 cups mixed salad greens

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Dice cooked chicken, apple, and halve grapes. Slice celery and finely chop red onion if using. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and fragrant.

Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, combine chicken, apples, grapes, celery, and red onion. Add the dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Fold in toasted walnuts last to maintain crunch.

Assemble the Salad
Place mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the chicken salad on top and garnish with extra walnuts or a few grape halves.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Dressing
Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Prepare Salad Ingredients
Dice chicken and apple, halve grapes, slice celery, and toast walnuts.

Step 3: Toss Salad
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, add dressing, and gently toss to coat.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Layer salad greens, top with chicken mixture, and garnish with walnuts and grapes.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve chilled as a main course or side salad. Pair with whole-grain bread, crackers, or a light soup for a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunches, brunches, or buffet-style gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Toss apple pieces in a little lemon juice before adding to prevent browning.
• Toast walnuts lightly for added flavor and crunch.
• Adjust sweetness in the dressing with more or less honey.
• Serve immediately after tossing to maintain the crunch of apples and celery.

Variations

Vegan Version
Replace chicken with chickpeas and mayonnaise with vegan mayo.

Fruit Variations
Add dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or orange segments for extra sweetness.

Nut-Free Option
Omit walnuts and use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Spicy Twist
Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño to the dressing for mild heat.

Creamy Yogurt Dressing
Replace all mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing as fresh fruits and greens will become soggy.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and dressing a day in advance, then assemble salad just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk for dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet for toasting walnuts (optional)
• Serving platter or bowls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, drained and shredded canned chicken works in a pinch.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep fruits and nuts fresh and crunchy.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use different nuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds work well as an alternative to walnuts.

How can I make it lower in calories?
Use more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise in the dressing and reduce the number of walnuts.

Conclusion

Chicken Waldorf Salad with Apples and Grapes is a fresh, flavorful, and elegant salad that combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in every bite. Perfect for lunch, brunch, or a light dinner, it’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and satisfying. Its versatility, balance of textures, and classic taste make it a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a wholesome and delicious meal.