Chicken, Apple & Grape Salad with Creamy Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad combines a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. The juicy grapes and crisp apples provide sweetness and freshness, while the tender chicken adds protein and heartiness. The creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and honey gives a light and refreshing twist to the classic chicken salad. With the added crunch from celery, green onions, and slivered almonds, and the tangy kick from dried cranberries, this salad is the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 6 ounces plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 cups diced)
• 1 cup sliced red grapes
• 1 cup diced apple
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the dressing aside.

For the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken breast, sliced grapes, diced apple, sliced celery, and green onions.
2. Add the slivered almonds, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss again to coat everything evenly.

To Serve:

1. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnishing with extra parsley or slivered almonds for a little added flair.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add some crunch: If you like extra crunch, add some chopped walnuts or pecans in place of the slivered almonds.
• Swap out fruits: You can swap the apples or grapes for other fruits like pears, strawberries, or even pineapple for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise for a dairy-free version of this salad.
• Grilled chicken: For added depth of flavor, try grilling the chicken breasts before dicing them for the salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the fruit and dressing can cause the ingredients to soften over time.
• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat, as it is a refreshing, cold salad.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe! Simply shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy dressing up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a quick stir before using.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any variety of apple, such as Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp. Each will offer a slightly different flavor and texture to the salad.

Can I make this salad without the dried cranberries?

Yes, you can omit the dried cranberries or replace them with another dried fruit, such as raisins or dried cherries, for a slightly different flavor.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

To prevent the salad from getting soggy, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients and add it just before serving.

Can I add more veggies to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach or arugula for more color and flavor.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding some finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the salad or dressing.

Can I use low-fat versions of the sour cream and mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free sour cream and mayonnaise if you want to make the salad lighter, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh for about 1-2 days in the fridge, as the fruits and dressing can cause the salad to soften over time.

What should I serve this salad with?

This salad is great on its own or served with a side of whole-grain crackers, toasted bread, or a light soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Chicken, Apple & Grape Salad with Creamy Dressing is a delicious, light, and nutritious meal that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweetness of apples and grapes. The creamy dressing adds a delightful tangy-sweet touch, making each bite satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a light side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!

Print