Chicken Waldorf Salad

The Chicken Waldorf Salad has a special place in my heart. It reminds me of summer picnics with my family, where we would gather under a sprawling oak tree, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the laughter of loved ones. The crunch of fresh veggies and the savory notes of chicken combined with the sweetness of grapes and apples made for a refreshing dish that was as colorful as our memories together. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for those moments. Whenever I whip up this salad, I’m transported back to those carefree days, feeling the joy that comes from sharing good food with great company.

Chicken Waldorf Salad Ingredients

When it comes to the ingredients for the Chicken Waldorf Salad, simplicity is key. Each component adds its unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful harmony. The key players include chicken for protein, walnuts for crunch, and fresh fruits for sweetness. Together, they form a balanced and satisfying dish.

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts – These provide a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the salad’s texture.
• 2 cups cubed or shredded cooked chicken – A great source of protein, making this salad hearty and filling.
• ½ cup minced celery – Adds a refreshing crunch that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 cup halved grapes – Their natural sweetness balances the dish beautifully.
• 1 cup firm, sweet diced apples – Choose your favorite variety for added flavor and sweetness.
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt – Provides creaminess while keeping the dish light and healthy.
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise – Enhances the dressing, making the salad rich and flavorful.
• 1 small lemon – Freshly squeezed juice brightens the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper – A touch of spice to enhance the overall taste.

How to Cook Chicken Waldorf Salad

Making the Chicken Waldorf Salad is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready to impress in no time!

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast them for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep tossing them every 30 seconds to ensure they don’t burn. You want them to be fragrant and slightly golden. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup mayonnaise, the juice of 1 small lemon, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cubed or shredded chicken to the bowl. Then, introduce the halved grapes, diced apples, minced celery, and the cooled, chopped walnuts. Gently fold the ingredients into the dressing. You want to ensure everything is evenly coated and mixed.
4. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes the salad even more refreshing.
5. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. You can serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad on a bed of lettuce, on wraps, on crackers, or even as a sandwich filling. The options are endless!

Recipe Variations about Chicken Waldorf Salad

There are countless ways to enjoy the Chicken Waldorf Salad. Here are some tips to switch it up and keep things interesting!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze this salad if needed. Just ensure it’s in a tightly sealed container. However, keep in mind the texture may change after thawing.
• Variations: Feel free to swap out the walnuts for slivered almonds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
• Seasonal Fruits: Depending on the time of year, you can add seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds in the winter or strawberries in the spring.
• Herbs: Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist!

Serve This Chicken Waldorf Salad With

The Chicken Waldorf Salad is not only a delicious dish on its own but also pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here’s how to elevate your serving experience!

• With a Side of Greens: Serve this salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for added freshness and crunch.
• Perfect for Picnics: This salad is a great choice for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Pack it in a cooler for a refreshing meal.
• Ideal for Lunchboxes: Prepare it in advance for a quick and easy lunch option throughout the week.
• Accompanied by Breads: Pair with crusty bread or soft rolls for a satisfying meal.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch with friends or a more formal dinner, this salad suits any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Waldorf Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that can brighten up any meal. It’s not just a salad; it’s a nostalgic dish that brings people together, evoking memories of sunny days and laughter. I encourage you to try this recipe at home—it’s perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive dish at your next gathering. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it is to share with friends and family.

Chicken Waldorf Salad

The ultimate summer salad that combines savory chicken with sweet fruits and crunchy walnuts. This Chicken Waldorf Salad is not only refreshing but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cups cubed or shredded cooked chicken
• ½ cup minced celery
• 1 cup halved grapes
• 1 cup firm, sweet diced apples
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 1 small lemon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing every 30 seconds. Remove from heat and allow to cool before chopping and adding to salad.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup mayonnaise, the juice of 1 small lemon, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the chicken, halved grapes, diced apples, minced celery, and chopped toasted walnuts to the dressing and toss until everything is evenly combined and coated in the dressing.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve this chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, on a wrap, on crackers, or as a sandwich.

Notes

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Mayonnaise/Yogurt Notes: Feel free to use all mayonnaise or all Greek yogurt for the base of the chicken salad. Any fat percentage works.
• Apples: Select a firm sweet or tart apple based on your preference, such as Granny Smith, Gala, or Honey Crisp.
• Nuts: Omit the nuts if desired or swap the walnuts for slivered almonds.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.