Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

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A refreshing twist on a classic, this Chicken Waldorf Salad brings together crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and tender chicken breast in a creamy dressing that hits every savory-sweet note. It’s a recipe that feels both nostalgic and new, a perfect balance of comfort and brightness. Whether you serve it on a bed of lettuce, tucked inside a croissant, or straight from the bowl, it’s a crowd-pleaser through and through.

This salad is the kind of dish that feels like it belongs on a sunny brunch table, yet it’s just as welcome on a weeknight dinner plate or in your lunchbox. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it undeniably satisfying, and best of all, it can be made ahead and even improved after a short rest in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

This dish is not your average salad. It brings elegance without being fussy. The creaminess of the dressing complements the crisp fruits and veggies, while the chicken adds protein that makes it filling enough to stand alone. It’s also incredibly adaptable—you can make it with leftover roasted chicken or a store-bought rotisserie.

More than anything, it’s a feel-good recipe. Light yet indulgent, it offers that little touch of luxury with everyday ingredients. Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a quick meal when you’re craving something wholesome but far from boring.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

The key to an unforgettable Chicken Waldorf Salad lies in the right apple choice. A mix of sweet and tart works best—think Fuji or Gala for sweetness and Granny Smith for a crisp, tangy bite. If you prefer a uniformly sweet profile, Honeycrisp is a fantastic all-in-one option. The important part is choosing apples that hold their shape and don’t brown too quickly.

Ingredients for the Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

The magic of this salad lies in the balance of savory and sweet, creamy and crisp. Every ingredient has a purpose and adds depth to the final flavor. It’s also a wonderfully flexible recipe that lets you play around based on what you have in your kitchen.

• Chicken breast
• Grapes
• Apples
• Celery
• Walnuts
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

The chicken breast serves as the hearty base, bringing protein and substance to the salad. Grapes offer bursts of juicy sweetness, while apples add both crunch and tartness. Celery brings a refreshing, crisp bite. Walnuts add nuttiness and texture that balances the soft components. The combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt creates a creamy dressing with tang and body. A splash of lemon juice keeps the flavors bright and prevents the apples from browning. Finally, salt and pepper are the finishing touches that tie everything together.

How To Make the Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Chicken

Poach or roast the chicken breasts until cooked through, then let them cool completely. Once cool, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Produce

Halve the grapes, dice the apples, and slice the celery. Be sure to keep the sizes consistent so every bite feels balanced.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

Lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their nutty aroma. Let them cool, then give them a rough chop.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, apples, celery, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, either over lettuce leaves or in your favorite sandwich bread.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Waldorf Salad

This salad is as versatile in presentation as it is in ingredients. It serves about 4 people generously, making it a great choice for a light family meal or a casual gathering. You can pile it into lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch, scoop it into croissants for an elevated picnic sandwich, or serve it on a platter surrounded by crackers and veggies for a charming appetizer.

To store, keep the Chicken Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. If making it ahead of time, consider adding the walnuts just before serving to maintain their crunch. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing and fresh fruit don’t hold up well after thawing.

What to Serve With Chicken Waldorf Salad?

Crusty Artisan Bread

A thick slice of rustic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy salad, soaking up every bit of dressing.

Sweet Potato Fries

The sweetness of the fries contrasts nicely with the tangy and savory notes of the salad.

Creamy Corn Dip

This ultra-creamy, slightly spicy dip works great as a shareable side or a rich contrast to the fresh salad.

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

For a double-salad lunch plate, this creamy pasta classic makes an excellent companion.

Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent, they’re a Southern-style side that adds character.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

If you’re feeding a crowd or just need more carbs, a small serving of this pasta dish offers comforting flavor.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Flaky and buttery, they’re perfect for sandwiching scoops of the chicken salad or serving on the side.

Grilled Peach and Honey Mustard Dressing

Serve a small salad of this alongside to keep everything fresh and fruity while playing up the sweetness in the Chicken Waldorf.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Chicken Waldorf Salad, you’ll definitely want to try a few of these refreshing and satisfying salads:

• The vibrant Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a seafood lover’s dream with creamy textures and bright citrus punch.
• For something equally nostalgic, Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad is rich, creamy, and perfect for BBQs and potlucks.
• Try the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli recipe for another protein-packed dish with a comforting twist.
• Add color to your table with the Old-Fashioned Pea Salad, a classic made new with a tangy kick.
• Looking for cozy flavors? The Cajun Potato Soup is an unexpected but delightful pairing for colder days.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can find it whenever the craving hits.

And if you try it, let me know how you made it your own! Did you swap in pecans? Add dried cranberries? Maybe even tried a vegan twist?

I love seeing your creations and answering your questions. Let’s keep sharing and making meals that feel like home.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads and more recipes over at Zoe Recipes on Pinterest: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

The Chicken Waldorf Salad is a timeless favorite that shines with fresh ingredients and a creamy, satisfying dressing. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s elegant enough for special occasions and easy enough for everyday meals. Give it a try and bring a little extra joy to your table.

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