Classic Chicken Waldorf Salad: A Refreshing & Easy Recipe for Any Occasion

This delicious Chicken Waldorf Salad is a delightful twist on a timeless classic! Combining crisp, sweet apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts with tender, succulent chicken, all enveloped in a creamy, perfectly balanced dressing, this salad is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s the ideal light meal, potluck favorite, or make-ahead lunch solution.

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it’s officially salad season – a time for vibrant, fresh, and easy-to-prepare dishes. While the original Waldorf salad has graced menus since the 1890s, traditionally featuring apples, celery, and walnuts, often with grapes, our modern take elevates this classic by adding a star ingredient: tender, cooked chicken. This simple addition transforms a lovely side dish into a complete, protein-packed meal that’s both light and incredibly refreshing. It’s truly a “boom, instant meal!” moment!

I have a soft spot for a good chicken salad. My aunt Lori’s recipe is always a hit, and I also frequently enjoy this Asian Chicken Salad when I’m looking to incorporate more greens into my diet (I’ll admit, traditional lettuce salads aren’t always my first choice!). But this Chicken Waldorf Salad? It hits different. It perfectly balances sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why This Chicken Waldorf Salad Will Become Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe. It’s more than just a salad; it’s a culinary experience designed for convenience, flavor, and nourishment. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Effortlessly Easy & Super Quick: With pre-cooked chicken, this salad comes together in just 10-15 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you need a speedy yet delicious meal.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Its robust nature means it holds up wonderfully in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping lunches throughout the week. You can prepare a large batch on Sunday and enjoy it for days.
• Nutritious & Delicious: Packed with lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins from the fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats from the walnuts, this salad is as good for you as it tastes.
• Lighter Dressing Option: We’ve lightened up the classic creamy dressing by incorporating a touch of Greek yogurt alongside mayonnaise. This simple swap maintains all the delicious creaminess you crave while reducing some of the richness, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Made with Wholesome, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t find any obscure ingredients here. Everything needed for this delightful salad can be easily found at your local grocery store, ensuring a hassle-free shopping experience.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer more tartness or sweetness, extra crunch or a smoother texture, this recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your palate.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Chicken Waldorf Salad

The beauty of this salad lies in its straightforward yet harmonious combination of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that signature Waldorf flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection:

• CHICKEN: The foundation of our hearty salad. You can use any cooked chicken you prefer. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, offering moist and flavorful meat. Leftover grilled or poached chicken breasts work beautifully too. Aim for shredded or diced pieces for the best texture. Approximately 2 large chicken breasts (about 3 cups or 455g) will be perfect for this recipe.
• APPLES: Apples provide that essential crispness and sweetness. While many traditional recipes call for tart Granny Smith apples, to avoid adding extra sweetener, I opt for sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala. Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apples are also excellent choices, offering a delightful crunch and balanced sweetness. Chop them into bite-sized pieces.
• GRAPES: Juicy grapes add bursts of refreshing sweetness that complement the other ingredients perfectly. Both red and green grapes work wonderfully. Just be sure to halve them for easier eating.
• CELERY: This is where the signature crunch of a Waldorf salad truly comes from. Two to three ribs of finely chopped celery will provide a refreshing, earthy note and a satisfying textural contrast.
• WALNUTS: Toasted walnuts are a must for their nutty flavor and added crunch. You can lightly toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their aroma and taste. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, pecans or even slivered almonds make great substitutes.
• GREEN ONION: Totally optional, but highly recommended! Green onions add a mild, fresh onion flavor without being overpowering, giving the salad an extra layer of savory depth.
• THE CREAMY DRESSING: This is where the magic happens!
  • MAYONNAISE: The base for our rich and creamy dressing. Use your favorite brand for the best results.
  • GREEK YOGURT: A secret ingredient to lighten up the dressing while maintaining its creamy texture. It also adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor. If you prefer a richer salad, you can use all mayonnaise instead.
  • FRESH LEMON JUICE: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is crucial. It brightens the dressing, cuts through the richness, and adds a zesty freshness that ties all the flavors together.
  • SEASON SALT & PEPPER: Season to taste. Start with a little and add more as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• GREENS (for serving): While the salad is delicious on its own, serving it on a bed of fresh greens adds elegance and extra nutrients. Bibb lettuce, butter lettuce, spring mix, or arugula are all fantastic options that complement the rich salad beautifully.

How to Master Your Chicken Waldorf Salad: A Simple Guide

Making this Chicken Waldorf Salad is incredibly straightforward, especially if you have your chicken pre-cooked. It’s all about a bit of chopping and then combining everything into a symphony of flavors and textures.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by ensuring all your ingredients are prepped. Dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the apple, celery, and green onion. Halve the grapes. If you’re toasting your walnuts, do that now and let them cool slightly.
2. Combine the Solids: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped chicken, apples, halved grapes, celery, toasted walnuts, and green onion (if using).
3. Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the combined salad ingredients.
5. Mix Thoroughly: Using a spatula or large spoon, gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the ingredients, especially the grapes.
6. Season to Perfection: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed with season salt and black pepper. You might want a little more tang from lemon juice or a touch more salt.
7. Chill (Optional, but Recommended): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures it’s wonderfully chilled.

That’s it! Your delicious Chicken Waldorf Salad is ready to be served and enjoyed immediately or saved for later. It’s truly that simple to create a dish that’s both impressive and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Creative Ways to Serve Your Chicken Waldorf Salad

The versatility of Chicken Waldorf Salad makes it a fantastic dish for almost any meal or gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to inspire you:

• ELEGANT BRUNCH OPTION:
  • On a Bed of Greens: Serve scoops of the salad over crisp bibb lettuce, delicate spring mix, or peppery arugula for a light and refreshing plate.
  • Croissant Sandwiches: Spoon the salad into flaky, buttery croissants for a truly decadent and satisfying sandwich.
  • Mini Sandwiches/Sliders: Use small rolls or slices of brioche for charming mini sandwiches, perfect for a party.
  • Stuffed Tomatoes: Hollow out ripe, juicy tomatoes and fill them with the salad for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
  • With Crackers or Crusty Bread: Offer it alongside an assortment of gourmet crackers or slices of a fresh baguette for an easy appetizer or light lunch.
  • Accompaniments: Pair it with fresh seasonal fruit, a side of vegetable crudités, and a refreshing drink like Homemade Lemonade for a complete brunch spread.
• PERFECT FOR OUTDOOR EVENTS: Chicken Waldorf Salad is a picnic and potluck dream! Since it’s a mayonnaise-based salad, it’s crucial to keep it chilled, especially during warmer weather.
  • Keep it Cold: If you’re serving it outdoors, place the serving bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain its coolness.
  • Transport Safely: Always transport the salad in a well-insulated cooler with ice packs. Remove it just before you’re ready to serve to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
• QUICK WEEKDAY LUNCH: Pack it in a container with a side of whole-wheat crackers or a handful of baby spinach for a healthy, satisfying lunch at work or school.
• LIGHT DINNER: Serve it as the main course with a simple side salad or a bowl of soup for a light yet fulfilling dinner.

Tips & Variations for Your Best Chicken Waldorf Salad

While the recipe is fantastic as is, here are some tips to make it even better, along with ideas for customizing it to your liking:

• Toast Your Walnuts: A quick toast in a dry pan for 5-7 minutes (or until fragrant) really brings out their nutty flavor and enhances the crunch. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
• Prevent Apple Browning: If making ahead, you can lightly toss your chopped apples in a tiny bit of lemon juice (separate from the dressing) to prevent them from browning. Drain any excess liquid before adding to the salad.
• Experiment with Apples: Don’t limit yourself to just Fuji or Gala. Try a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile.
• Add Dried Fruit: For an extra touch of sweetness and chewiness, consider adding 1/4 cup of dried cranberries (Craisins), dried cherries, or golden raisins.
• Herb Power: Fresh herbs can elevate this salad significantly. A tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or dill can add a wonderful freshness.
• Sweetness Boost (Optional): If your apples aren’t sweet enough or you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add a teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar to the mayonnaise mixture.
• Make it Creamier or Tangier: Adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to Greek yogurt based on your preference for richness and tanginess. You can also add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for a subtle kick.
• Vegetarian Option: For a delicious meat-free version, swap the chicken for cooked chickpeas or cannellini beans, or even diced hard-boiled eggs for a similar protein boost.

Recipe: Chicken Waldorf Salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups (455g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced (about 2 large breasts)
• 1 large apple, chopped (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1 cup (180g) grapes, halved (red or green)
• 2-3 ribs celery, chopped
• ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts, lightly toasted (optional)
• 1-2 green onions, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup (170g) mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (60g) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Season salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped apple, halved grapes, chopped celery, toasted walnuts (if using), and chopped green onion (if using).
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve immediately, or for best results, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

1. MAKE-AHEAD: To prepare in advance, combine all ingredients except the walnuts. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir in the walnuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
2. PRO TIP: For an extra special touch, use candied walnuts instead of plain toasted walnuts!

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 580kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 39g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 23g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 113mg
• Sodium: 281mg
• Potassium: 536mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 11g
• Vitamin A: 116IU
• Vitamin C: 6mg
• Calcium: 58mg
• Iron: 2mg

We hope you love this Chicken Waldorf Salad as much as we do! Its delightful blend of textures and flavors makes it an instant classic in any home. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or an elegant brunch, it’s sure to impress.

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