If you’ve been searching for a healthy comfort food that’s just as perfect for easy weeknight dinners as it is for a weekend brunch, look no further than this Waldorf Chicken Salad. It’s got everything—juicy, tender chicken, crisp apples, sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and toasty walnuts—all tossed together in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels elegant enough for entertaining but is quick enough to whip up for quick family meals or even as part of your meal planning chicken routine. Best of all, it’s a high-protein, budget-friendly recipe that keeps you full and happy without weighing you down.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is more than just a mix of ingredients—it’s a little celebration in every bite. The chicken adds satisfying protein, the apples and grapes bring fresh sweetness, and the walnuts add that irresistible nutty crunch. It’s light yet filling, making it a great option for high protein meals and low calorie chicken meal prep. And since it doesn’t require cooking (if you use pre-cooked chicken), it’s perfect for hot days when you want something fresh but don’t want to turn on the stove.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness from the fruit plays beautifully with the savory chicken, while the celery and walnuts add depth and crunch. The creamy dressing—brightened up with lemon juice—ties everything together without being heavy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it in lettuce cups for a low carb option, pile it on whole-grain bread for best meal prep plans, or scoop it onto a platter with crackers for an easy appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup red or green seedless grapes, halved
- 1 crisp apple (like Granny Smith or Fuji), diced
- 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt for low calorie high nutrition meals)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
How to Make It Step-by-Step
- Prep the Ingredients – Start by dicing the apple, slicing the celery, halving the grapes, and chopping the walnuts. If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it and let it cool before dicing. For ready made protein meals, rotisserie chicken is a quick, delicious option.
- Toast the Walnuts – This step is optional but worth it. Toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes enhances their flavor and adds a richer crunch.
- Make the Dressing – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or mayo and Greek yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything – Add the chicken, apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts to the dressing. Gently fold until every bite is coated in that luscious, tangy creaminess.
- Chill for Best Flavor – Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the dressing to slightly soften the fruit and veggies.
- Serve and Enjoy – Spoon the salad into lettuce cups, pile it high on whole-grain bread, or serve it in a bowl with crackers.
Tips for Best Results
- Toss the apples in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to prevent browning.
- For high macro meals, use extra chicken and reduce the dressing slightly.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use light mayo or all Greek yogurt.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning after chilling—the flavors will mellow in the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Dairy-Free – Skip the yogurt and use a dairy-free mayo.
- Nut-Free – Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Fruit Variations – Try pears instead of apples, or swap grapes for dried cranberries for best meals to prep during the holidays.
- Herb Boost – Fresh tarragon, dill, or chives add an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This Waldorf Chicken Salad is so versatile you can enjoy it in countless ways. Serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh and no prep keto meal, on toasted sourdough for a hearty lunch, or with a side salad for healthy eating for two. It’s also perfect for meal prepping into premade lunch meals you can grab during the week.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- Drinks: Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a crisp white grape juice.
- Sides: Whole-grain crackers, sweet potato chips, or a fresh garden salad.
- Light Dinner: Pair with a bowl of tomato basil soup for best dinner prep meals.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This salad is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the dressing separates slightly, just give it a quick stir before serving.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
You can make this salad up to a day ahead—it actually tastes better after the flavors mingle in the fridge. However, it’s not freezer-friendly because the fruit and celery lose their crispness once thawed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overdressing – Add dressing gradually so the salad isn’t too heavy.
- Skipping the Chill – Chilling helps the flavors develop; don’t skip it.
- Using Mushy Grapes or Apples – Firm, fresh fruit keeps the texture bright and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make it low carb? Yes—just serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
- What’s the best apple variety? Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji.
- Can I use canned chicken? Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken has better texture.
- Is it gluten-free? Yes, as long as you skip bread or use gluten-free wraps.
- Can I meal prep this? Absolutely—it’s perfect for meal prep microwave lunches (though you won’t be microwaving it).
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Waldorf Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup red or green seedless grapes, halved
- 1 crisp apple (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji), diced
- 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- fine salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the produce: Dice the apple, thinly slice the celery, and halve the grapes. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, then chop once cooled.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Add the chicken, apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts to the bowl. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to lightly set.
- Serve: Spoon onto lettuce leaves, pile onto whole-grain bread or wraps, or serve in bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
