If you have ever dreamed of a salad that is as hearty as it is refreshing, then you’re in for a real treat with this Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe. This dish combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt and mayo with the perfect balance of savory and sweet notes from Dijon mustard, grapes, and a touch of sugar. The crunch of celery and roasted cashews adds texture, while the seasoned chicken brings satisfying protein to every bite. It’s super easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it the go-to choice for busy days or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you’ve tried this, it will become your new favorite quick meal or snack to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each bringing a signature flavor or texture that makes this salad outstanding. From rich proteins to crunchy nuts and juicy grapes, everything works in harmony to create a delightful bite every time.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (I prefer 2% milkfat or higher): Adds creamy tanginess with a healthy boost of protein and thickness.
- 1/4 cup mayo: Enhances richness and smooths out the dressing for that luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle kick and depth of flavor that lifts the entire salad.
- 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey): Balances the tanginess with a subtle touch of sweetness for roundness.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential to bring out all the flavors without overpowering.
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds mellow, aromatic background notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A little savory warmth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or diced (rotisserie chicken breast works great): Tender, protein-packed base for this hearty salad.
- 1 1/2 cups red grapes, sliced: Bursts of juicy sweetness that contrast beautifully with savory elements.
- 1 cup finely diced celery (about 2-3 stalks): Provides a crisp texture and fresh herbal punch.
- 1 cup roasted cashew halves and pieces: Adds crunch and a buttery nutty flavor to keep things interesting.
- Any extra seasonings you like (dried chives recommended): Personalize your salad with herbs or spices to make it your own.
How to Make Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Your Dressing
Combine the Greek yogurt, mayo, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. Whisk everything until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. Taste at this point — it should feel a bit salty and concentrated since it will mingle with the other ingredients and mellow out.
Step 2: Toss the Mix-Ins
In a large bowl, add your diced chicken, sliced grapes, finely diced celery, and roasted cashew pieces. Pour in as much dressing as you want — whether you like your salad lightly coated or luxuriously creamy. Gently fold everything together so all the flavors start mingling without crushing the grapes or nuts.
Step 3: Season and Ajust to Taste
Give your salad a thorough taste test. This is the moment to add any extra seasonings such as dried chives, white pepper, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them on hand. This final stage elevates the salad and transforms it into your very own masterpiece.
Step 4: Ready to Enjoy!
And just like that, your Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe is done! You’ve got a satisfying, creamy, crunchy, and fresh chicken salad ready to brighten up your day. Whether you dive in right away or pack it for lunch, you’ve nailed this soulful dish.
How to Serve Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair can go a long way. Sprinkle some extra roasted cashews on top or add a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can also brighten flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs amazingly well with a variety of sides. Think crusty whole wheat bread or pita for dipping, crisp green salads for contrasting textures, or even a bowl of your favorite soup to make a wholesome lunch or light dinner. The mild chicken salad balances heartier sides effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve your Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe in little lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy bite that’s both fun and low-carb. Or spread it on toast for a delicious open-faced sandwich, roll it inside a wrap with fresh greens, or scoop it by the spoonful onto crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The possibilities are endless and always delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your chicken salad tightly covered in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to four days, allowing you to plan ahead and enjoy quick meals without any fuss.
Freezing
While freezing chicken salad isn’t generally recommended because the texture of the grapes and celery can suffer, if you must, remove the nuts and grapes before freezing and add them fresh after thawing. This helps maintain the salad’s delightful crunch and flavor balance.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If your kitchen is chilly, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before eating for the best texture and flavor. Reheating in a microwave is not advised, as it will break down the creamy dressing and the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts instead of cashews?
Absolutely! Almonds, pecans, or walnuts would work wonderfully. Just be sure to use roasted nuts for the best flavor and crunch. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for this recipe?
Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that balances the mayo and adds protein, but if you’re out, you can substitute with sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt. The flavor changes slightly, but the salad will still taste fantastic.
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken or substitute it with chickpeas or tofu for protein. To make it vegan, use vegan mayo, plant-based yogurt, and replace chicken with your preferred plant protein. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
What’s the best kind of chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken breast works perfectly for this recipe — cooked, tender, and easy to shred. You can also use leftover grilled or poached chicken breast. Just ensure it’s cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy?
Keep the salad chilled until serving and combine the dressing just before eating if possible. Avoid mixing too far in advance, especially if using homemade chicken or freshly washed ingredients, to preserve texture and freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe is truly a keeper — it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to keep you excited every time you serve it. Whether it’s a busy weekday lunch or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe delivers comfort and delight in every bite. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy the burst of taste and texture that only this salad can bring!
Print
Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Super Yummy Chicken Salad is a quick and delicious recipe perfect for busy days. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, sweet red grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted cashews, all tossed in a creamy dressing of Greek yogurt, mayo, and Dijon mustard. It’s ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoyed on its own, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% milkfat or higher)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey, to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salad Mix-ins
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or diced (rotisserie chicken breast recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups red grapes, sliced
- 1 cup finely diced celery (about 2–3 stalks)
- 1 cup roasted cashew halves and pieces
- Optional: extra seasonings such as dried herbs, fresh herbs, salt, pepper, freeze-dried chives, white pepper
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, remembering the dressing should be slightly salty and concentrated as it will be combined with all other ingredients.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken, sliced grapes, diced celery, and roasted cashews.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour as much of the dressing onto the salad mix-ins as desired and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season to Taste: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt, pepper, dried herbs, or freeze-dried chives and white pepper to enhance flavor.
- Serve and Store: Serve the chicken salad cold on whole wheat wraps, lettuce wraps, sandwiches, toast, or with crackers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- You can swap sugar with honey as a natural sweetener.
- Using rotisserie chicken breast saves prep time and adds great flavor.
- Adjust the amount of dressing based on your preferred creaminess.
- Add freeze-dried chives or fresh herbs to personalize the flavor.
- Best enjoyed cold and fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
