Chicken Waldorf Salad

I first made this salad for a backyard lunch when the kids were still small and running barefoot on the grass. The sun was soft, the grapes were chilled, and that very first bite—crunchy apple, creamy dressing, and tender chicken—felt like a little celebration of everything light and lovely.

There’s a reason this dish has stayed on our family’s rotation ever since. It’s bright, simple, and full of texture. The grapes pop with sweetness, the nuts add depth, and the lemony yogurt dressing ties it all together.

What I love most is how little effort it takes to feel this fancy. You barely cook, just toast some nuts and stir. Yet, it looks like you brought the “good stuff” to the table.

So here’s my take on the classic Chicken Waldorf Salad—updated just enough to feel fresh, but still comforting and nostalgic in all the right ways.

Short Description

A refreshing chicken salad with crisp apples, juicy grapes, celery, and toasted nuts tossed in a creamy lemony dressing—simple, satisfying, and versatile.

Ingredients

Main ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted

For the dressing

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional substitutions

• Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo
• Swap nuts with seeds for nut-free option
• Try vegan mayo and yogurt for a plant-based version

Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Citrus juicer or fork
• Spoon or spatula

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Cube cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie chicken, skip extra seasoning.

Step 2: Chop fruits and veggies
Dice the apple, halve the grapes, and thinly slice the celery. Toss apple with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 3: Toast the nuts
Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and toast at 325°F (165°C) for 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool.

Step 4: Mix the dressing
Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine the ingredients
In a large bowl, add chicken, apple, grapes, celery, and half of the nuts. Pour dressing over and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Taste and finish
Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking. Sprinkle remaining nuts on top just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s fresh, flavorful, and super simple. You don’t need fancy tools or techniques—just a few good ingredients and a few minutes of prep. It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and versatile enough for any meal.

Helpful Tips and Cooking Notes

Toast nuts just before serving for max crunch. To meal prep, store components separately and mix when ready to eat. Use leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor. Serve chilled for the best texture.

Nutritional Benefits & Fun Facts

Greek yogurt brings protein and gut-friendly probiotics. Apples and celery are packed with fiber and vitamin C. Walnuts add omega-3s and healthy fats. The original Waldorf Salad debuted at the Waldorf-Astoria in the 1890s—starting with just apples, celery, and mayo.

Final Dish & Serving Suggestions

This salad is a beautiful mix of creamy, crisp, juicy, and crunchy. The flavors are clean and bright, with just enough richness to feel satisfying. Serve it over baby greens, in lettuce cups, or stuffed into a croissant.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days in the fridge. Keep dressing separate if preparing in advance. Let sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving. Do not freeze—fresh ingredients will lose their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great shortcut and adds flavor. Just adjust salt in the dressing.

2. What kind of apple is best?
Tart and crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balance the sweetness.

3. Can I skip the nuts?
Absolutely. Use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?
2–3 days in a sealed container. Best eaten fresh.

5. Can I make it vegan?
Yes—use plant-based yogurt and mayo, and substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Waldorf Salad is light but satisfying, elegant but easy. It’s one of those dishes that keeps showing up on our table, and I think it might become a favorite at yours too. Let me know how you make it your own—I’d love to hear your version.