Waldorf chicken salad is a classic for a reason—sweet, crunchy, creamy, and full of nostalgic charm. Apples, grapes, walnuts, and tender chicken come together in the most delicious way. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or anytime you want something a little special.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
– 1 apple, cored and diced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by ensuring all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Dice the cooked chicken breast, chop the celery, halve the grapes, dice the apple, and roughly chop the walnuts.
Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the diced chicken, celery, grapes, apples, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the top.
Toss the Salad
Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the grapes or apples.
Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add a handful of dried cranberries for a sweet-tart flavor.
2. Include a pinch of cinnamon in the dressing for an aromatic touch.
3. Use roasted chicken for a deeper flavor profile.
4. Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for freshness.
5. Substitute half of the mayonnaise with avocado for a creamier texture.
What (Side) Dishes to Serve With This Meal
This Waldorf chicken salad pairs well with crusty bread or whole grain rolls for a complete meal. For something lighter, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a quinoa salad. A refreshing fruit salad or a bowl of soup can also complement this dish beautifully.
Substitutions
1. Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
2. Use pecans instead of walnuts if preferred.
3. Swap green apples for red ones if you want a sweeter salad.
4. Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Recipe Variations
1. Add cooked bacon bits for an extra savory touch.
2. Incorporate blue cheese crumbles for added richness.
3. Mix in shredded carrots or cabbage for extra crunch and color.
4. Use rotisserie chicken as a convenient alternative to cooked chicken breast.
5. Try adding sliced strawberries in place of grapes for a different fruity twist.
