Name: Chicken Waldorf Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded (grilled, poached, or rotisserie); 1 crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and diced; 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved; ¾ cup celery, thinly sliced; ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped; ¼ cup green onions or red onion, finely chopped (optional); 4 cups mixed salad greens or butter lettuce leaves (optional, for serving); ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version); 2 tbsp sour cream or plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest, optional); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste; (Optional: 1 tsp honey if using Greek yogurt for a touch of sweetness)

DifficultyBeginner

CategoryAppetizers, Chicken, Nuts, Salad

A refreshing and satisfying salad blending tender chicken, crisp apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts, all tossed in a creamy dressing with a zesty lift. This elegant dish is as perfect for meal prep as it is for garden lunches.

Yields4 Servings

Prep Time20 minsCook Time10 minsTotal Time30 mins

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded (grilled, poached, or rotisserie)

1 crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and diced

1 cup red seedless grapes, halved

¾ cup celery, thinly sliced

½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

¼ cup green onions or red onion, finely chopped (optional)

4 cups mixed salad greens or butter lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)

For the Creamy Dressing

⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

2 tbsp sour cream or plain yogurt

1 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest, optional)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Optional: 1 tsp honey if using Greek yogurt for a touch of sweetness)

Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill while you prep the rest.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, gently combine the chicken, diced apple, grapes, celery, walnuts, and onions (if using). Toss until evenly mixed.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently fold everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

You can serve it immediately or chill it for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Serve on a bed of lettuce or over greens as a composed salad, or spoon into lettuce cups for a fun appetizer.

Variations & Tips

Make it a sandwich: Serve it between two slices of toasted sourdough or in a croissant.
Add crunch: Sprinkle extra toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.
Add herbs: A touch of fresh tarragon, chives, or parsley brings a bright finish.
Make it dairy-free: Use all mayo or a dairy-free alternative in the dressing.

Pairing Ideas

Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
Sparkling water with lemon or apple juice spritz
Sides: a soft roll, roasted sweet potatoes, or a light soup

Ingredients