Name: Grape and Apple Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded; 1 cup red or green grapes, halved; 1 crisp apple, diced; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped; 2 green onions or 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Why You’ll Love Grape and Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

This recipe balances savory and sweet flavors in every bite. The crunch from apples and the burst of grapes keep the salad lively, while the creamy dressing ties everything together. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and works well for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
Red or green grapes, halved
Crisp apple, diced
Celery, finely chopped
Green onions or red onion, finely chopped
Mayonnaise
Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Lemon juice
Honey or maple syrup
Salt
Black pepper
Optional add-ins: chopped walnuts or pecans, fresh parsley

Directions

In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, grapes, diced apple, celery, and onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and honey until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
If using nuts or herbs, fold them in last.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Substitute rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
Use green apples for a more tart taste or red apples for added sweetness.
Replace mayonnaise with all Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add dried cranberries for extra chewiness.
Serve over mixed greens, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

Storage/Reheating

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What type of apple works best?

Crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work well.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely, leftover roasted or grilled chicken is perfect for this recipe.

Is this recipe healthy?

It can be, especially if you use Greek yogurt and lean chicken breast.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayonnaise and skip the yogurt.

What can I serve this chicken salad with?

It pairs well with bread, croissants, crackers, or fresh greens.

Will the apples turn brown?

The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent browning.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture will change.

How do I make it sweeter?

Add a little more honey or include extra grapes.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, pears or dried cherries are great additions.

Conclusion

Grape and Apple Chicken Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together fresh fruit, tender chicken, and a creamy dressing. Whether you serve it for lunch, dinner, or a gathering, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.