Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the grapes provide a burst of sweetness, and the pecans offer a satisfying crunch. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it both delicious and comforting. It’s easy to make, customizable, and can be served on its own, on a bed of greens, or even as a sandwich filling.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste
  (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken, halved grapes, and toasted pecans.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.

3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Refrigeration time: 30 minutes (or longer for best results)

Variations

• Add-ins: You can add other fruits like apples or dried cranberries for a different twist.

• Protein swaps: Try using turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of regular cooked chicken.

• Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes.

• Dressings: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version or add some curry powder for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: This salad is typically served cold, so there’s no need for reheating. If you prefer to serve it warm, you can heat the chicken separately and then combine it with the other ingredients, but the salad is best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

How long can I store the chicken salad in the fridge?

You can store the chicken salad for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews if you prefer.

Can I make this chicken salad in advance?

Yes, this chicken salad can be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.

How do I make this salad healthier?

You can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a lower-fat mayo option.

Can I freeze chicken salad with grapes and pecans?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad because the texture of the grapes and dressing may change when thawed.

What type of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is often the best choice for convenience and flavor.

How can I make the chicken salad spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to give the salad a little kick.

What can I serve this salad with?

This chicken salad can be served on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich or wrap, or with crackers as a dip.

Can I use green grapes instead of red?

Yes, you can substitute green grapes for red grapes if you prefer. Both work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this chicken salad is naturally gluten-free. However, be mindful of any gluten-containing items if you're serving it with crackers or bread.

Conclusion

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is an easy, flavorful dish that combines savory chicken with sweet grapes and crunchy pecans. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick lunch. With the ability to easily customize the ingredients and variations, this recipe is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich or as a stand-alone dish, this chicken salad will be sure to impress!

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