Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Almonds Recipe

Introduction

This easy chicken salad with grapes and almonds is a perfect, wholesome dish for quick lunches or gatherings. Made with simple ingredients, it’s fresh, flavorful, and suitable for Whole30, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Whether meal prepping for the week or bringing something tasty to a picnic, this salad is sure to please.

A bowl of chicken salad sits on a white marbled surface, featuring three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of fresh green and purple leafy lettuce, the middle layer is creamy chicken salad with a light white sauce dotted with herbs, small chunks of celery, and sliced grapes both purple and green, and the top layer is scattered with sliced almonds and small pieces of green onion, adding texture and color contrast. The bowl is white with a simple, slightly textured rim. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 pound cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 3 cups)
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1/3 cup red or green onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds
  • 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon grainy or Dijon mustard (check for Whole30 compatibility)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (avocado oil mayo works well for Whole30)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prep and measure all the ingredients, making sure the chicken is cooked and shredded or diced.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, onions, almonds, grapes, and parsley.
  3. Step 3: Add the mustard, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
  4. Step 4: Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
  5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar as desired.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

  • Try substituting avocado oil mayonnaise with homemade avocado mayo for a fresher flavor and Whole30 compliance.
  • Add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweeter twist on this salad.
  • Use toasted almonds for an extra crunch and deeper flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter salad, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt (note: not Whole30 compliant).

Storage

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For best texture and flavor, keep it chilled and avoid adding delicate ingredients like almonds until just before serving if possible. Reheat is not recommended as it is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

This image shows a white bowl filled with a creamy chicken salad on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: the first layer is a base of fresh green leafy lettuce. The second layer sits on top, consisting of various ingredients including white chunks of cooked chicken, halved red and green grapes, pale green sliced celery, and scattered light brown almond slices. The third layer is a creamy dressing with a slightly grainy texture coating most ingredients, dotted with small green pieces of chopped green onions and herbs. A silver spoon is partially visible in the top right corner of the salad. The overall look is fresh with a mix of creamy, crunchy, and juicy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred or dice the meat before mixing.

Is this chicken salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for several days, making it an ideal choice for preparing lunches in advance.

Print
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Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Almonds Recipe


  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy chicken salad with grapes and almonds is a wholesome, delicious meal prep recipe perfect for lunches, potlucks, or picnics. Made with tender cooked chicken, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and crunchy almonds all tossed in a creamy, tangy mayo dressing with Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar. This salad is Whole30, gluten free, and dairy free, making it a versatile and healthy option for various dietary needs.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Salad Ingredients

  • 1 pound cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 3 cups)
  • 2 stalks of celery, sliced
  • 1/3 cup red or green onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds
  • 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon grainy or Dijon mustard (Whole30 compliant if applicable)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (avocado oil mayo recommended for Whole30)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients as listed. Dice or shred the cooked chicken, slice the celery, dice the onion, halve the grapes, and chop the parsley to have everything ready for mixing.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sliced celery, diced onion, almonds, halved grapes, and chopped parsley.
  3. Add Dressing: Add the grainy or Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and red wine vinegar to the bowl with the ingredients. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired to balance the flavors perfectly.
  5. Serve or Store: Serve the chicken salad immediately or transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, making it excellent for meal prep or later enjoyment.

Notes

  • For a Whole30-compliant option, use homemade avocado oil mayonnaise.
  • This chicken salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
  • Feel free to swap red or green grapes or onions depending on your preference.
  • The almonds add a crunchy texture, but you can omit or substitute if you have nut allergies.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: chicken salad, easy chicken salad, Whole30 chicken salad, gluten free lunch, chicken salad with grapes, chicken salad with almonds, make ahead lunch, dairy free salad

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