This Pecan Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful salad that combines shredded chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans with a creamy dressing. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly nutty, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even served on a bed of greens.
Pecan Chicken Salad with Apples and Grapes
I love making this chicken salad because it’s quick, easy, and packed with a variety of textures and flavors. The juicy grapes and apples provide a burst of sweetness, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. This salad is perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or even a refreshing dinner on warm days. It’s a versatile dish that you can enjoy on its own or in a sandwich or wrap.
Serve this salad with Classic Garlic Bread Recipe for a comforting meal or pair with Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe for a delicious lunch combo.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
- Crunchy and Fresh: The mix of apples, grapes, and pecans adds great texture.
- Perfectly Sweet and Savory: Balances natural sweetness with savory chicken.
- Quick to Make: Simple ingredients and easy preparation.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a sandwich, wrap, or on its own as a salad.
Main Ingredients for Pecan Chicken Salad with Apples and Grapes
- Cooked Chicken – Shredded or cubed chicken is the protein base for the salad.
- Apples and Grapes – Add a refreshing crunch and natural sweetness.
- Pecans – Provide a rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt – Create a creamy, tangy dressing.
- Celery and Green Onion – Adds a mild crunch and depth to the salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Here’s how to make this fresh and flavorful chicken salad step by step:
- Prepare the Chicken: If not already cooked, boil or bake 2 cups of chicken breast until fully cooked. Let cool, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Tip: Rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy option for this recipe.
- Chop the Apples and Grapes: Dice 1 medium apple and halve 1 cup of red or green grapes. Set aside.
- Pro Tip: Use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for extra crunch.
- Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped apple, halved grapes, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup chopped celery, and 1/4 cup sliced green onion.
- Variation: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, and salt and black pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
- Tip: Adjust the yogurt-to-mayo ratio for a lighter or creamier dressing.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serving Idea: Serve on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or in a wrap.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill adds a lovely herbal note.
- Make it Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seeds for pecans if needed.
- How to Store: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Meal Prep Option: Make a double batch and enjoy as an easy lunch throughout the week.
Health Benefits of Pecan Chicken Salad with Apples and Grapes
This salad is rich in protein from the chicken and healthy fats from pecans, while apples and grapes provide fiber and vitamins. Using Greek yogurt in the dressing adds probiotics and protein, making it a nutritious, balanced meal option.
- High in Protein: Shredded chicken adds a lean source of protein.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Grapes and apples provide vitamins and antioxidants.
- Fiber-Packed: The mix of fruit and veggies supports digestive health.
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