Hello, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and sunny picnics: Chicken Salad With Grapes. This simple yet elegant dish perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite in my household.
I remember the first time I tasted a variation of this salad at a family reunion. My aunt, known for her culinary prowess, brought a large bowl of chicken salad that had everyone raving. The juicy burst of grapes combined with tender chicken and the crunch of walnuts was an unexpected yet delightful surprise. It was a hit, and I’ve been tweaking and perfecting the recipe ever since to suit my taste.
What I love about this Chicken Salad With Grapes is its versatility. It’s an easy recipe to prepare, perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and nutritious meal. The combination of mayonnaise and plain yogurt creates a creamy yet light dressing that coats the ingredients beautifully without being too heavy. The addition of thyme adds a subtle aromatic note that ties everything together.
One of my favorite tweaks to this recipe is using Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for an extra protein boost and a tangier flavor. You can also swap out the walnuts for pecans if you prefer a slightly sweeter nut. For those who like a bit of a kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing can give the salad a gentle spice that contrasts nicely with the sweet grapes.
Whether you serve this salad on a bed of fresh greens, in a sandwich, or simply on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.
So, gather your ingredients and give this Chicken Salad With Grapes a try. It’s a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal and is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
How to Make Chicken Salad With Grapes
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 3 sprigs thyme, chopped
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts, cooked
Directions
- Start by preparing the chicken, or opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Dice the chicken into cubes and place them in a large bowl.
- Add the finely diced red onion, chopped celery, and halved grapes to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Blend in the mayonnaise and plain yogurt, stirring until the chicken mixture is evenly coated.
- Carefully fold in the chopped walnuts and thyme.
- Season the salad with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy.
Storing Suggestions:
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again to recombine any separated ingredients.
FAQs:
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for plain yogurt. It will make the salad creamier and add a bit of tanginess.
What other nuts can I use besides walnuts?
If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews. Each type of nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the salad.
Can I add other fruits to this chicken salad?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like diced apples, dried cranberries, or even mandarin oranges can enhance the flavor profile of the salad.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make the salad healthier, consider using a low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise and yogurt. Additionally, you can increase the amount of celery and grapes to add more fiber and nutrients.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with this chicken salad?
This chicken salad pairs well with a variety of sides, such as leafy green salads, crusty bread, or even stuffed into a wrap or sandwich. It also works well as a topping for crackers.
Chicken Salad With Grapes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs cooked chicken breasts
- 1 cup halved grapes
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 stalks finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 small finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 sprigs chopped thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Cut the chicken into cubes and place in a mixing bowl. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and halved grapes, mixing well.
- Incorporate the mayonnaise and plain yogurt, stirring until the chicken mixture is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy right away or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
