Chicken Waldorf Salad is a refreshing and classic dish featuring tender chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts all tossed in a creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or a side dish for any gathering. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be served on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Health Benefits
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 medium apple, cored and chopped
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped apple, halved grapes, chopped celery, and toasted walnuts.
2. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Serve

1. Serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves, in a sandwich, or as desired.
2. Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Chicken: Use cooked, cooled chicken breast for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works great as a time-saving option.
• Apples: Use a crisp apple variety such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, Gala or Fuji apples work well.
• Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts brings out their flavor. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Dressing: The combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt keeps the dressing light yet creamy. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tang and prevents the apples from browning.
• Make Ahead: You can make the salad a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best to add the nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Variations

• Pecan Waldorf Salad: Substitute the walnuts with toasted pecans for a different nutty flavor. Pecans add a slightly sweeter and buttery taste.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free mayonnaise and omit the Greek yogurt, or replace it with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Coconut yogurt works particularly well for this.
• Extra Crunch: Add 1/4 cup of diced red onion or chopped bell pepper for extra crunch and flavor. The onion adds a subtle bite, while the bell pepper adds sweetness.
• Sweet Touch: Stir in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness. This complements the tartness of the apples and the creaminess of the dressing.
• Herbed Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon for added freshness and a pop of color. Tarragon pairs particularly well with chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Lettuce Cups: Serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad in lettuce cups for a low-carb, refreshing meal. Butter lettuce or romaine leaves work well as they are sturdy and have a nice crunch.
• Croissants or Sandwich Rolls: Make a hearty sandwich by serving the salad in buttery croissants or sandwich rolls. This is perfect for a brunch gathering or a picnic.
• Stuffed Tomatoes or Bell Peppers: Hollow out tomatoes or bell peppers and stuff them with the Chicken Waldorf Salad for a unique presentation. This is a great option for entertaining guests.
• Platter with Crackers: Serve the salad on a platter surrounded by crackers for an easy appetizer. This way, guests can scoop up a bit of the salad with each cracker.

Health Benefits

Chicken Waldorf Salad is not only delicious but also offers a variety of health benefits:

• Protein: The chicken provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, grapes, and celery add vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Apples are rich in vitamin C and fiber, which aid digestion and boost the immune system.
• Healthy Fats: Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also add healthy fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables.
• Greek Yogurt: Using Greek yogurt instead of solely mayonnaise reduces the overall fat content while adding probiotics that are good for gut health.
• Low-Carb Option: Serving the salad in lettuce cups or on its own makes it a great low-carb option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Chicken Waldorf Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make this salad up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors meld together even better after a few hours of chilling, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Waldorf Salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly. To keep the nuts crunchy, consider adding them just before serving.

3. What Can I Serve with Chicken Waldorf Salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s also delicious served on a bed of leafy greens. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a cup of soup.

4. Can I Use Other Types of Nuts?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or even cashews if you prefer. Just be sure to toast them for the best flavor. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives for crunch.

5. Can I Use Canned Chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. However, freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken provides a better texture and flavor. If using canned chicken, be sure to drain it well and shred it before adding to the salad.

6. Can I Make This Salad Healthier?

For a healthier version, reduce the amount of mayonnaise and use more Greek yogurt. You can also use low-fat Greek yogurt and skip the dried fruits if you want to cut down on sugar. Adding more fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber will increase the nutrient content.

Chicken Waldorf Salad is a timeless dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. The combination of tender chicken, fresh fruit, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a creamy dressing, makes it both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, as a side dish, or at a special gathering, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The versatility of this dish allows you to adjust it to your taste and dietary needs, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic recipe! Serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or make it extra fancy by stuffing bell peppers for a stunning presentation. No matter how you serve it, this Chicken Waldorf Salad is sure to be a favorite. Bon appétit!