Name: Delicious Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans for Summer Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 large Poached Chicken Breasts (Use homemade or rotisserie chicken.); 1 cup Red Grapes (Halved; can substitute with diced apples.); ¾ cup Pecans (Roughly chopped; consider walnuts or almonds for variety.); 2 stalks Celery (Diced; diced cucumbers can also work.); 3 Green Onions (Sliced; can replace with red onion.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Tarragon (Chopped, optional; use parsley or omit if not preferred.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Chopped; no specific substitution needed.); ¾ cup Mayonnaise (For a lighter option, swap with Greek yogurt.); 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (No direct substitutions; yellow mustard can be used.); 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (No direct substitutions required.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Fresh lemon juice is preferred.); ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt (Reduce if using table salt.); ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (No substitutions necessary.)

As I stirred the bowl, the sound of crunchy pecans and juicy grapes mingling together reminded me that cooking doesn’t always have to be complicated to be delightful. This Quick and Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is one of my go-to recipes for those busy days when I want something light yet satisfying. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only perfect for a picnic but also a refreshing lunch option. The combination of tender chicken, sweet grapes, and that creamy light mayo dressing creates a beautiful balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s adaptable; swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist! Who says quick meals can’t be delicious? Are you ready to create something wonderful?

Why Is This Chicken Salad Special?

Freshness Abounds: The combination of crunchy pecans and juicy grapes creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for summer.
Effortless Prep: In just 10 minutes, you can have a delicious salad ready for lunch or a quick dinner.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the grapes for apples or use Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing—this recipe adapts to your tastes!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this salad on croissants, sourdough, or over greens, and watch it disappear at your next gathering. Discover more incredible flavors with other options like Egg Salad Spicy or Chickpea Lentil Salad for variety!
Meal Prep Friendly: Enjoy this delightful dish for up to 5 days when stored properly, making it perfect for busy weeks ahead.

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful chicken salad!

For the Salad

Large Poached Chicken Breasts (3) – Main protein source; use homemade or rotisserie chicken. Substitution/Prep Note: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient alternative.
Red Grapes (1 cup, halved) – Adds sweetness and juiciness. Substitution/Prep Note: Can substitute with diced apples for a different flavor.
Pecans (¾ cup, roughly chopped) – Provides crunch and richness. Substitution/Prep Note: Consider walnuts or almonds for variety.
Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds crunch and freshness. No direct substitution needed, but diced cucumbers can also work.
Green Onions (3, sliced) – For mild onion flavor. Substitution/Prep Note: Can replace with red onion for a sharper taste.
Fresh Tarragon (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional) – Herb that adds unique flavor. Use parsley or omit if not preferred.
Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) – For garnish and light flavor enhancement. No specific substitution needed.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise (¾ cup) – Base for the dressing; gives creaminess. Substitution/Prep Note: For a lighter option, swap with Greek yogurt.
Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Adds tang. No direct substitutions but yellow mustard can be used if needed.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Enhances richness and flavor. No direct substitutions required; can use a different oil.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Adds acidity; helps to balance flavors. Fresh lemon juice is preferred for best flavor.
Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor. Substitution/Prep Note: Reduce if using table salt.
Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds spice and depth. No substitutions necessary.

This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is packed with textures and flavors that simply sing when mixed together. Ready to gather these ingredients and get started? Let’s dive into those simple steps next!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by poaching the chicken breasts in gently simmering water for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Once done, remove them from the water and let them cool before dicing the chicken into 1-inch cubes. This tender chicken forms the hearty base for your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, halved red grapes, roughly chopped pecans, diced celery, and sliced green onions. If you’re using fresh tarragon and parsley, add those herbs as well for an extra layer of flavor. Gently toss everything together until evenly mixed, allowing the sweet and savory ingredients to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will add a wonderful richness to your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans, enhancing all the flavors while keeping it light.

Step 4: Combine
Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until all ingredients are well coated. Be careful not to mash the grapes as you mix, preserving their juiciness for the final dish.

Step 5: Chill (Optional)
For optimal flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. Chilling allows the Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans to develop a deeper flavor profile, making each bite more delicious.

Step 6: Serve
Serve the Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans straight from the fridge, enjoying it chilled. You can serve it on toasted croissants or sourdough, or over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal. Feel free to garnish with additional herbs to make it visually appealing!

Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Success

Poaching Mastery: Poach your chicken a day in advance for a hassle-free preparation. This helps save time on busy days and keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
Storage Savvy: For best quality, consume your chicken salad within 2-3 days. Avoid freezing due to the mayonnaise content, which doesn’t freeze well.
Seasoning Checks: Always give your chicken salad a taste before serving. Adjust seasonings as needed; a little extra salt or lemon can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Flexibility: If you’re running low on grapes, diced apples or dried cranberries can wonderfully enhance your chicken salad with grapes and pecans!
Dressing Delight: For a lighter option, don’t hesitate to swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy while significantly reducing fat content.
Presentation Perfection: Serving on toasted bread? Toast lightly to add texture and warmth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes for a gorgeous presentation!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the salad fresh and ensures that flavors meld beautifully.

Freezer: Avoid freezing chicken salad due to mayonnaise, which can separate and alter texture upon thawing. For best taste, enjoy it fresh within 2-3 days.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed chilled. Just give it a gentle stir before serving if it’s been stored in the fridge.

Room Temperature: Limit time out of the fridge to 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially on warmer days.

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful chicken salad—there are so many ways to make it truly yours!

Greek Yogurt: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed dressing that still tastes creamy.
Dried Cranberries: Replace grapes with dried cranberries for a sweet and chewy twist that adds a hint of tartness.
Nuts Galore: Substitute pecans with walnuts or sliced almonds to experiment with different crunch levels and flavors.
Herb Medley: Mix in fresh dill or basil alongside tarragon for a fresh herb garden vibe that brightens every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for those who crave a little heat.
Crispy Texture: Incorporate diced apples or cucumbers to enhance the crunch factor, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy salad.
Flavorful Cheese: Throw in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a salty punch that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Nutty Dressing: Drizzle some tahini into the dressing for a nutty flavor that creates an unexpected but delightful depth.

Whether you want to lighten up your meal with yogurt instead of mayo or add a zesty kick with hot sauce, these variations bring flexibility and fun to your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans! For more inspiration, try pairing it with a refreshing Chickpea Lentil Salad or a comforting Chicken Casserole Normande for a complete meal experience!

Make Ahead Options

This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors even on your busiest days! You can prepare the chicken and chop the grapes, celery, and pecans up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the dressing, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything, fold in the dressing carefully to keep the grapes intact, and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that tastes just as fresh as if you made it today!

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

Let’s turn this delightful chicken salad into a full meal that sings with fresh flavors and hearty textures.

Toasted Croissants: These buttery delights add a flaky crunch that complements the creamy salad perfectly, creating a satisfying sandwich.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh bed of baby spinach or arugula adds a crisp contrast. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette for a light side.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and basil will balance the sweetness of the grapes while offering a filling side option.
Fruit Skewers: Skewered seasonal fruits like strawberries or melon bring a refreshing sweetness, beautifully contrasting the savory flavors in your chicken salad.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc creates a delightful pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience with its crisp acidity.
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread makes every bite irresistible, adding a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy salad.
Potato Chips: The salty, crispy texture of homemade or store-bought chips serves as a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken salad.

Elevate your mealtime with these vibrant options that make every dish something special!

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for chicken salad?
Absolutely! You can use large poached chicken breasts for a tender and moist base. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds great flavor without the poaching time.

How do I store leftover chicken salad?
To keep your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days to ensure the ingredients remain vibrant and flavorful.

Can I freeze chicken salad?
Very! Unfortunately, it’s best not to freeze chicken salad due to the mayonnaise content, which can separate and affect the texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so plan to consume it within 2-3 days instead.

What if my chicken salad is too dry?
If your salad seems a bit dry, don’t fret! You can easily remedy this by adding a couple more tablespoons of the dressing mixture or a splash of olive oil. Start with a small amount, mix well, and adjust to your desired creaminess.

Are there any dietary considerations regarding allergies?
Yes, definitely! This chicken salad contains common allergens like nuts (pecans) and mayonnaise (egg). If you’re preparing this for someone with allergies, you can substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Additionally, use a vegan mayo or Greek yogurt to make it egg-free!