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Best Creamy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

best creamy chicken salad with grapes and pecans - featured image

This creamy chicken salad with grapes and pecans is quick, easy, and perfect for lunch, meal prep, or gatherings. Made with rotisserie chicken, Greek yogurt, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans, it’s a balanced and delicious dish that comes together in 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup red grapes, halved
  • ½ cup pecans, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 3 stalks green onion, sliced
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and bones, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. You want about 3 cups. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Toast the pecans (optional but recommended): Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Remove from pan immediately and let cool.
  3. Prep the produce: Rinse and dry the grapes, then cut them in half. Dice the celery into small, even pieces. Slice the green onions thinly. Chop fresh herbs if using. Add everything except the pecans to the bowl with the chicken.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the chicken and grape mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together gently. Fold in the toasted pecans last.
  6. Chill (if you can wait): Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. If in a hurry, it’s still delicious right away.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Give it a final stir before serving. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. If too thick after chilling, stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of milk.

Notes

For best results, toast the pecans to enhance flavor and crunch. Add pecans just before serving if making ahead to keep them crunchy. The salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

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