Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe

why make this recipe

This chicken salad with grapes and pecans is quick, fresh, and full of flavor. It mixes sweet grapes and crunchy pecans with tender chicken. You get a simple meal that works for lunch, a light dinner, or a picnic.

introduction

This recipe uses common ingredients and takes about 15 minutes to assemble if you have cooked chicken. If you like this salad, try a similar version with cranberries in the recipe chicken salad with cranberries.

how to make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe

Make the salad in three steps: prepare the chicken and produce, mix the dressing, and combine everything. Chill for a short time to let flavors blend.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (red or green)
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or sour cream (optional, to thin)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lettuce leaves, bread, or croissants for serving

Directions :

1. If needed, cook and cool chicken (poach, roast, or use rotisserie). Chop into bite-size pieces.
2. Wash and halve grapes. Chop celery and green onion.
3. Toast pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
4. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Add chicken, grapes, celery, green onion, and pecans to the bowl. Stir until evenly coated.
6. Taste and adjust salt or lemon. Chill for 15–30 minutes if you have time, then serve.

how to serve Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe

Serve on toasted bread, croissants, or in lettuce cups. It also works over mixed greens or with crackers. Garnish with extra pecans or a few whole grapes.

how to store Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For best texture, keep pecans separate and add just before serving if you want them extra crunchy.

tips to make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe

• Toast the pecans to bring out their flavor.
• Cut grapes in half to avoid large bites of juice.
• Use a mix of mayo and yogurt to cut fat and add tang.
• Chop chicken to a consistent size for even bites.
• Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes so flavors marry.

variation (if any)

• Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds.
• Swap grapes for chopped apples for a crisper version.
• Add dried cranberries or raisins for more sweetness.
• Stir in a little curry powder for a spiced twist.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead and store in the fridge. Add extra nuts before serving for crunch.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes. Drain canned chicken well and break into pieces. It works in a pinch.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: No. Freezing will change the texture of the grapes and dressing. Keep it refrigerated instead.

Q: How can I make it lighter?
A: Use plain yogurt instead of some or all of the mayo. You can also reduce the amount of nuts.

Q: Is there a nut-free option?
A: Yes. Omit pecans and add sunflower seeds or extra celery for crunch.

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