Are you craving a light yet satisfying meal? Look no further than this delightful Chicken Salad with Grapes! Bursting with freshly cooked chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy dressing, this dish brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures to your table. Whether enjoyed as a sandwich or right from the bowl, it’s quick to make and entirely irresistible!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Chicken Salad with Grapes recipe is approximately $10.50, making it about $2.10 per serving if you’re feeding five. Perfectly budget-friendly for a delicious meal that feels like a treat!
Why This Recipe Works
This Chicken Salad with Grapes is a perfect marriage of simplicity and flavor. The contrast between the tender chicken and crunchy celery and the juicy sweetness of the grapes turns an ordinary salad into a standout dish. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, which means you can whip it up even on your busiest days! Who wouldn’t want that kind of effortless deliciousness on their table?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious chicken salad, along with some substitution suggestions to suit your taste or pantry items:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken ($3.00) – You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or swap with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved ($2.00) – Any berries would offer a delightful twist.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped ($0.50) – Swap for cucumber for extra crunch.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped ($0.30) – Green onions could add a milder flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise ($1.50) – Greek yogurt works well for a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard ($0.20) – Honey mustard could sweeten the deal!
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.10)
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by gathering all your ingredients in one spot. Take a moment to appreciate the colorful array before you—it’s a feast for the eyes! Next, shred your cooked chicken if you haven’t done so already. Using rotisserie chicken can save time, and the flavors are fantastic.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, and chopped red onion. As you toss them gently, notice how each component adds a pop of color and texture; it’s almost like an edible confetti celebration!
Step 3: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until they’re thoroughly blended. This creamy dressing is what ties this lovely salad together, so take your time to ensure it’s smooth and luxurious. You can feel the excitement build as the flavors meld!
Step 4: Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, get ready to mix it! I usually use a spatula to fold everything gently, being careful not to crush the grapes. You want everything to mingle while keeping that fresh grape shape intact.
Step 5: Once everything is combined beautifully, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This step is key; it allows all those fantastic flavors to mingle and develop even further—like a symphony coming together!
Step 6: Finally, scoop that delightful chicken salad onto a bed of fresh greens, into a sandwich, or in a wrap. Whatever way you serve it, you’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Total Fats: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 330mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Chicken Salad with Grapes is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t fret! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay delicious for about 3 days. Just keep in mind that the grapes may lose their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply give it a stir and maybe a sprinkle of fresh pepper before you dig in!
Serving Suggestions
There are countless ways to enjoy your Chicken Salad with Grapes! Serve it chilled on a bed of leafy greens for a light lunch, or layer it onto a toasted croissant for a touch of brunch elegance. You can also serve it with crunchy crackers or stuffed in a pita for a delightful twist. Pair it with a side of potato chips or a fresh fruit salad to round out your meal!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Here’s a pro tip: If you can, make your chicken salad a few hours ahead of time or even the night before. The flavors will deepen and develop for a more delicious outcome! Additionally, feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have available. Want to add apples for a bit of tartness? Go for it! Or toss in some nuts for added crunch—your salad, your rules!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to drain it well before use.
How long will the chicken salad last in the fridge? It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal quality.
Can I make this salad vegan? You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegan mayo for a plant-based version!
Is this chicken salad gluten-free? Yes! Just ensure your mayo is gluten-free, and you’re set!
Can I freeze the chicken salad? I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the texture can change when thawed.
