This chicken salad with grapes is a perfect fusion of flavors and textures, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The tender chicken pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of grapes and the crunch of nuts, creating a balanced and refreshing meal. Ideal for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying, appealing to both adults and kids alike. Let’s dive into the details of this flavorful recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup green grapes, halved
– 1 cup red grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (or pecans)
– 1 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Wash and halve the green and red grapes.
3. Dice the celery into small pieces for added crunch.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grapes, and celery.
5. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
6. Add the yogurt mixture to the chicken and grape mixture.
7. Stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans for extra flavor and texture.
8. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
10. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a creamier texture. For a lighter option, use a low-fat yogurt. Additionally, replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken salad pairs beautifully with whole-grain bread or crackers. For a complete meal, enjoy it with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold and does not freeze well due to the grapes’ texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not shredding the chicken finely can lead to uneven bites.
- Using too much dressing may make the salad soggy.
- Skipping the chilling step can result in less flavor.
- Overmixing can break down the grapes and chicken.
- Using unripe grapes can affect the sweetness and overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Experiment with different nuts for varied flavors.
- Use a mix of red and green grapes for visual appeal.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Yes, leftover chicken is perfect for this recipe. It saves time and adds great flavor.
How long can I store this chicken salad?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is in an airtight container.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well for meal prep and can be made in advance.
Can I replace grapes with another fruit?
Yes, apples or dried cranberries can be great substitutes for grapes in this salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients, this chicken salad can be gluten-free.
Conclusion
This chicken salad with grapes is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. With its perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as a refreshing lunch or a light dinner, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!
Chicken Salad With Grapes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup green grapes halved
- 1 cup red grapes halved
- 1/2 cup celery diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- Begin by shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and halve the green and red grapes.
- Dice the celery into small pieces for added crunch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grapes, and celery.
- In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add the yogurt mixture to the chicken and grape mixture.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves.
Nutrition
