This chicken salad is creamy, fresh, and perfectly balanced with sweet grapes and crisp celery. It comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for quick lunches, picnics, or simple weeknight dinners. Whether piled high on a croissant or served in lettuce cups, this easy recipe delivers classic flavor with a refreshing twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
Perfect balance of flavors: Savory chicken paired with sweet grapes and a creamy dressing.
Great texture: Crunchy celery and red onion add freshness to every bite.
Versatile serving options: Delicious in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or on its own.
Meal prep friendly: Keeps well in the refrigerator for several days.
Crowd pleaser: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and school lunches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (about 1 pound raw chicken cooked)
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, halved grapes, diced red onion, and diced celery. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a small pinch of salt or pepper at a time.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings (about 1/2 cup per serving)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of chicken salad, enough for about 8 sandwiches.
Variations
Add sliced almonds
Stir in 1/4 cup sliced almonds for extra crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
Pesto chicken salad
Add 2 tablespoons pesto and mix in chopped roasted red peppers and halved cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Buffalo chicken salad
Replace the grapes with 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce mixed into the dressing for a tangy, slightly spicy version. Serve in lettuce cups.
Curry chicken salad
Add 1/2 teaspoon curry powder and 2 tablespoons sliced almonds. Serve in pita pockets for a flavorful change.
Herb chicken salad
Mix in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley to brighten the overall flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
If the salad has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded for food safety reasons.
This recipe does not require reheating. Stir well before serving if it has been refrigerated, as some separation may occur.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast or chicken thighs?
Yes, both work well. Chicken breast is leaner and more traditional, while thighs provide a slightly richer flavor.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds extra flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I keep the grapes from making the salad watery?
Make sure the grapes are dry after washing and slice them just before mixing.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and change texture.
What bread works best for chicken salad sandwiches?
Croissants, sandwich bread, brioche buns, and wraps all work well.
How can I make this recipe lower in carbohydrates?
Serve it in lettuce cups or over a bed of mixed greens instead of bread.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, diced cucumber or shredded carrots can be added for extra crunch.
How do I adjust the seasoning?
Start with the recommended amounts, taste the mixture, and add small amounts of salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Conclusion
This chicken salad is a simple yet satisfying recipe that delivers creamy texture, refreshing crunch, and just the right touch of sweetness. With minimal prep time and flexible serving options, it’s a dependable go-to for lunches, gatherings, and busy weeknights. Keep this recipe on hand for an easy meal that everyone will enjoy.
A creamy and refreshing chicken salad made with tender chicken, sweet grapes, crisp celery, and a simple seasoned dressing, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups.
