Crunchy chicken salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. This salad is packed with textures, from the crunch of fresh lettuce, celery, and nuts to the juicy bite of grapes or apples. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, crunchy chicken salad can be served on its own, over a bed of greens, or in sandwiches for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved (or 1 apple, diced)
- ½ cup almonds or walnuts, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves or mixed greens (for serving)
- Optional: ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness
Instructions:
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, grapes (or apples), chopped nuts, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the chicken salad on its own, over a bed of lettuce, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
This crunchy chicken salad is light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick meal or a summer gathering, offering a delicious mix of textures and fresh ingredients in every bite!