Name: Chicken Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Celery
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 stalks celery, chopped; ⅔ cup red grapes, halved; ½ cup chopped pecans; ½ medium red onion, diced; ⅔ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

This chicken salad combines tender shredded chicken with sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and crisp celery, all tossed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and a touch of Dijon mustard. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for lunches, picnics, or light dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this chicken salad to be a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the grapes contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, while the pecans and celery add a satisfying crunch. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a versatile dish that can be served in various ways—on a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or simply on its own.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 stalks celery, chopped
⅔ cup red grapes, halved
½ cup chopped pecans
½ medium red onion, diced
⅔ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large bowl, I mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
I add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, chopped pecans, diced red onion, and parsley to the bowl.
I gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
When ready to serve, I give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy it as desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 1 hour of chilling time to enhance the flavors.

Variations

I like to customize this chicken salad based on what's available or to suit different tastes:

Fruits: Sometimes I substitute or add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a different sweetness.
Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans if preferred.
Herbs: Fresh dill or tarragon adds a unique flavor twist.
Spices: A pinch of curry powder or paprika can introduce a new depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad seems a bit dry after refrigeration, I stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise to restore its creaminess. I don't recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients can change upon thawing.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this salad?

I usually use cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds great flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt?

Yes, I substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or additional mayonnaise to keep the salad dairy-free.

How can I make this salad lower in fat?

I use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content. Also, I increase the proportion of vegetables like celery and reduce the amount of nuts.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Certainly! I sometimes include diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Chicken Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Celery is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that I find both satisfying and versatile. Whether I'm preparing it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, it's always a hit. I enjoy experimenting with different variations to keep things fresh and exciting.