Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Simply remove the skin, pull the meat from the bones, and chop or shred it according to your preference. It's actually one of the best ways to make this salad super quick and delicious.

How can I make this chicken salad healthier?

There are several easy modifications to lighten this recipe. Try using Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise, add extra celery for more crunch and fiber, and increase the amount of grapes for natural sweetness. You could also serve it over greens instead of bread for a lower-carb option.

Why is my chicken salad watery?

Watery chicken salad usually happens when the grapes release their juice or if the chicken was still warm when mixed with the dressing. Be sure to thoroughly pat dry your grapes after washing them and allow chicken to completely cool before mixing. You can also add the dressing right before serving to prevent this issue.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

This recipe scales up beautifully for parties or gatherings. Simply double or triple all ingredients maintaining the same ratios. For easy serving at a party, consider making tea sandwiches or offering it with an assortment of crackers and breads so guests can create their own perfect bite.

Chicken Salad With Grapes Recipe

This Chicken Salad With Grapes is a refreshing twist on the classic chicken salad that brings together tender chicken, sweet juicy grapes, and crunchy walnuts. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and tangy yogurt creates a perfectly balanced dressing that coats every bite. Ready in just minutes, this versatile dish is perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or light dinners when you need something delicious without much fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Quick: This recipe comes together in just minutes, especially if you use rotisserie chicken. It’s the ultimate time-saver when you need something delicious without hovering over the stove.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness from the grapes, crunch from the celery and walnuts, and creaminess of the dressing create layers of flavor and texture that make each bite interesting.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it now, enjoy it later! This salad actually gets better after the flavors meld together in the refrigerator.
Versatile: Serve it on croissants, in wraps, on a bed of greens, or just eat it straight from the bowl with a fork (no judgment here!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken: The star of the show! Use any cooked chicken breast you have. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves tons of time. The chicken provides protein and substance to the salad.
Red Onion: Adds a sharp, vibrant flavor that wakes up the whole dish. Finely dice it to distribute that fantastic flavor without overwhelming bites.
Celery: Brings essential crunch and a fresh, clean flavor. Don’t skip this – the textural contrast is what makes chicken salad special.
Grapes: The sweet little bursts of juice balance the savory elements perfectly. Red or purple grapes add beautiful color, but green work just as well.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the dressing. Use real mayonnaise for the best flavor.
Plain Yogurt: Lightens up the dressing while adding a subtle tang that balances the richness of the mayo.
Walnuts: Contribute wonderful texture and a slightly earthy flavor. They also add healthy fats and make the salad more satisfying.
Fresh Thyme: This herb adds a subtle complexity that elevates the salad from basic to brilliant.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together – don’t be shy with them!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Proteins

Swap the chicken for turkey for a post-Thanksgiving treat
Try canned tuna or salmon for a seafood twist
Use chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian version

Fruit Alternatives

Replace grapes with diced apples for a fall-inspired salad
Add dried cranberries for a sweet-tart burst
Mix in mandarin orange segments for citrusy brightness

Nut Options

Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts
Try toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free version
Add pistachios for beautiful color and unique flavor

Dressing Adjustments

Use all mayonnaise for a richer salad
Try Greek yogurt for extra protein
Add a touch of Dijon mustard for zip

How to Make Chicken Salad With Grapes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook your chicken breast using your preferred method – baked, poached, grilled, or even in the Instant Pot. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Cut and Combine

Cut your chicken into bite-sized cubes or shred it, depending on your preference. Place in a large mixing bowl and add the finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and halved grapes.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Add the mayonnaise and plain yogurt to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until all the chicken and add-ins are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Incorporate Final Ingredients

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and fresh thyme. These ingredients are added last to maintain their texture and prevent the nuts from getting soggy.

Step 5: Season

Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get the balance just right. Remember that the flavors will develop as the salad chills.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Transfer to a serving dish. You can enjoy immediately, but it’s even better after chilling in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Chicken Temperature Matters: Make sure your chicken is completely cooled before mixing with the other ingredients – warm chicken will make the dressing too thin.
Texture Control: For the best texture, dice your celery and onion very finely, but keep the grapes in larger halves for that juicy burst.
Season Properly: Chicken salad often needs more salt than you might think – cold foods need more seasoning as the cold temperature mutes flavors.
Customize the Consistency: If you prefer a creamier salad, add a bit more mayo or yogurt. For a lighter version, reduce the mayo and increase the yogurt.
Let It Rest: While you can serve this immediately, letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.

How to Serve

Sandwich Style

Serve between slices of toasted sourdough bread with lettuce and tomato for a classic sandwich, or pile it into a buttery croissant for something a bit more special.

Lighter Options

Scoop onto a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb lunch, or stuff into lettuce cups for a refreshing appetizer.

Party Perfect

Serve with an assortment of crackers on a grazing board, or make mini sandwiches for a tea party or shower.

Complete the Meal

Pair with a cup of tomato soup for a comforting lunch, or serve alongside fresh fruit for a light dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store this chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as everything melds together.

If you used pre-cooked chicken that had already been stored for a few days, adjust your storage time accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

This is a perfect make-ahead dish! Prepare it the night before for lunch or dinner the next day. You can also prep all ingredients separately and combine them just before serving if you’re concerned about the vegetables losing their crunch.

Freezing

Unfortunately, mayonnaise-based salads don’t freeze well as the dressing separates upon thawing. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Simply remove the skin, pull the meat from the bones, and chop or shred it according to your preference. It’s actually one of the best ways to make this salad super quick and delicious.
How can I make this chicken salad healthier?

There are several easy modifications to lighten this recipe. Try using Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise, add extra celery for more crunch and fiber, and increase the amount of grapes for natural sweetness. You could also serve it over greens instead of bread for a lower-carb option.
Why is my chicken salad watery?

Watery chicken salad usually happens when the grapes release their juice or if the chicken was still warm when mixed with the dressing. Be sure to thoroughly pat dry your grapes after washing them and allow chicken to completely cool before mixing. You can also add the dressing right before serving to prevent this issue.
Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

This recipe scales up beautifully for parties or gatherings. Simply double or triple all ingredients maintaining the same ratios. For easy serving at a party, consider making tea sandwiches or offering it with an assortment of crackers and breads so guests can create their own perfect bite.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Salad With Grapes recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy celery and walnuts creates something truly special that works for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re packing lunches, planning a picnic, or just need a quick dinner solution, this versatile recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try today – your taste buds will thank you!