If you have been looking for a fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free dish to brighten up your meals, this Easy Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender cooked chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and a creamy, zesty dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between savory and refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug and yet delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re packing lunch for work, whipping up a weeknight dinner, or bringing a dish to a picnic, this chicken salad is a delicious, reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple but delicious is the secret here. Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavor but also for the wonderful texture and color it brings to the Easy Chicken Salad Recipe. From juicy grapes to crunchy toasted pecans, every component works together to make this dish a standout.
- Cooked chicken breast meat: About 1 pound diced into bite-sized pieces provides the hearty protein base.
- Seedless red grapes: 2 cups halved to add a sweet juiciness that balances the savory notes.
- Celery: 1 cup thinly sliced for a fresh, crisp texture.
- Red onion: 1/2 cup finely chopped to bring a mild but distinct sharpness.
- Pecans: 1 cup toasted and coarsely chopped for deep, nutty crunch.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup to create a luscious, creamy dressing base.
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup to add tangy richness and a velvety finish.
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons for a fresh, zesty lift that brightens every bite.
- Dill: 2 tablespoons finely chopped to infuse a subtle herbaceous note.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for a touch of gentle heat.
How to Make Easy Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Start by warming a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add the pecans and toast them for about 3 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently so they brown evenly without burning. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with a lovely nutty aroma and they take on a golden hue. Once toasted, transfer the pecans to a cutting board and chop them roughly. This step unlocks a deeper richness in the nuts that adds an irresistible crunch to the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced cooked chicken, halved grapes, thinly sliced celery, finely chopped red onion, and the now-cooled toasted pecans. These ingredients form the vibrant base of the salad and the combination of juicy fruit and crisp vegetables creates an exciting textural play that makes every bite interesting.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, finely chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. The dressing is creamy and tangy with just the right herbal notes to enhance the flavors of the chicken salad without overpowering any ingredient. This mixture is what ties everything together perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the grapes and pecans get wrapped in that creamy dressing for a balanced taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld, resulting in a more harmonious and refreshing dish.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill or some whole toasted pecans on top of the salad elevates its presentation and gives an inviting aroma just before serving. Little touches like a lemon wedge on the side brighten the table and let your guests tailor each bite with a splash of citrus.
Side Dishes
This Easy Chicken Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, buttery crackers, or crisp lettuce leaves if you prefer a low-carb option. A side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad keeps the meal light and balanced, perfect for warm weather lunches or light dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stuff the chicken salad into ripe avocado halves, or serve it atop a bed of mixed greens for a colorful, nutritious meal. It also makes an excellent filling for pita pockets or wraps, making it a versatile choice for picnics or on-the-go lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and is a fantastic grab-and-go option for quick meals or snacks. The flavors only improve as they sit, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
Freezing
This chicken salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen because the grapes and celery can become watery after thawing, which affects the texture. For best results, make just enough to last a few days and skip freezing.
Reheating
Because this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary or recommended. If you’d like to use leftover chicken, reheat the chicken separately and then prepare a fresh batch of salad to maintain the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut that adds great flavor without extra effort. Just be sure to dice the meat into bite-sized pieces before mixing.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even toasted breadcrumbs can add a nice crunch without nuts. Adjust quantities based on preference.
Is it okay to use plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, substituting plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt can lighten the dressing while still keeping it creamy and delicious. You might want to add a touch more lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Can I prepare this salad the day before serving?
Definitely. Making your Easy Chicken Salad Recipe a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a gentle stir before serving and add any fresh garnishes at the last minute.
How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?
Using leftover cooked chicken or purchasing chicken on sale helps cut costs. You can also substitute grapes with diced apples or raisins and use regular mayonnaise instead of specialty sour cream or yogurt.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Salad Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll want in your culinary rotation. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor and texture that feels both fresh and comforting. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become your go-to for packed lunches, casual dinners, or even a light treat anytime. Give it a whirl and enjoy the happy smiles around your table!
Print
Easy Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy chicken salad recipe combines tender cooked chicken breast with sweet red grapes, crunchy celery, toasted pecans, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and sour cream. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad is flavorful, refreshing, and simple to prepare in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast meat, diced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups seedless red grapes, halved
- 1 cup celery, cut into thin slices
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Toast pecans: Place the pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat and toast them for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Then transfer them to a cutting board and chop coarsely.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced cooked chicken, halved grapes, sliced celery, finely chopped red onion, and the cooled toasted pecans. Mix gently to combine all the salad ingredients.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), lemon juice, freshly chopped dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble and serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the bowl of mixed salad ingredients and stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream for plain Greek yogurt.
- You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Make the salad up to a day ahead for better flavor, keeping it refrigerated.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce or with whole grain bread for a complete meal.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
