Sweet & Crunchy Chicken Salad with Grapes: The 10-Minute Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again

Are you tired of boring lunch options? Looking for something quick, refreshing, and packed with flavor? I’ve got just the thing! Let me share my absolute favorite chicken salad with grapes recipe that’ll transform your midday meal into something extraordinary.

I’ve been making chicken salad for years, but this version has become my go-to. It combines juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and tender rotisserie chicken in a creamy dressing that hits all the right notes. The best part? It only takes 10 minutes to throw together!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad with Grapes

This isn’t just any chicken salad. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures with sweet and savory flavors creates a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more. Here’s why it’s so special:

• Sweet-savory balance: The juicy grapes add natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it on croissants, in pita pockets, on lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl!
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep and actually tastes better after flavors meld
• Quick & easy: Uses rotisserie chicken for a 10-minute prep time
• Crowd-pleaser: Both kids and adults love this combination

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the perfect chicken salad with grapes, gather these simple ingredients:

For the chicken base:

• 4-5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (about 1 whole rotisserie chicken)
• 1-2 cups seedless red grapes, halved or quartered
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (adds wonderful crunch!)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery (about 2 stalks)
• 1/4 cup sweet onion, chopped (optional but adds nice flavor)

For the creamy dressing:

• 1/2-2/3 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s is excellent if available)
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1-2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is super easy to make – here’s how I do it:

1. Prepare the chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. I prefer shredding over cubing because it helps the dressing cling better to the chicken.

2. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended.

3. Prep the mix-ins Wash and halve (or quarter) the grapes Finely chop the celery and sweet onion if using, Roughly chop the pecans,

4. Combine everything: Add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, chopped pecans, celery, and onion to the bowl with the dressing.

5. Mix gently: Stir everything together until well coated, being careful not to mash the ingredients. I like to use a folding motion to keep everything intact.

6. Taste and adjust Give it a try and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed

7. Chill (optional) For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving though you can totally eat it right away if you’re hungry!

Serving Suggestions

There are so many delicious ways to enjoy this chicken salad with grapes! Here are my favorites:

• Classic sandwich: Serve between two slices of whole wheat bread with lettuce
• Fancy option: Pile it on a buttery croissant for an elevated lunch
• Low-carb: Scoop into lettuce cups or serve over mixed greens
• Pita perfection: Stuff into pita pockets with some fresh greens
• Party style: Serve with Ritz crackers as a dip
• Wrap it up: Roll in a whole wheat tortilla for an easy portable lunch

My partner swears by serving it in a pita pocket with bibb lettuce, while I personally love it on a croissant. Both are fantastic options!

Helpful Tips From My Kitchen

After making this recipe countless times, I’ve picked up some tricks:

• Chicken choice matters: While rotisserie chicken is super convenient, you can use any leftover chicken. If cooking from scratch, chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor than breasts.

• About the mayo: If using a brand other than Duke’s, add 1/8 teaspoon paprika to mimic its unique flavor. You can also substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

• Make it your own: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Add diced apples, dried cranberries, or swap the nuts based on what you have.

• For the best texture: Cut your grapes into quarters rather than halves – this distributes the sweetness better and makes them easier to eat.

• Don’t forget the lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors and helps balance the richness of the mayo.

• Storage tip: This will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day!

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, here are some tasty variations to experiment with:

Fruity Twists

• Substitute diced apples or pears for the grapes
• Add dried cranberries or cherries for extra sweetness
• Mix in fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries during summer

Nutty Alternatives

• Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews
• Try toasting the nuts first for enhanced flavor
• Use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option

Herbal Enhancements

• Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon
• Mix in a teaspoon of curry powder for a curried chicken salad
• Include fresh basil and use a bit of pesto in the dressing

Creamy Dressing Options

• Replace half the mayo with mashed avocado
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for more protein
• Add a touch of honey for extra sweetness

Making It Healthier

If you’re watching your calorie intake, try these simple adjustments:

• Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise
• Choose white meat chicken instead of dark meat
• Load up on extra celery for more crunch with fewer calories
• Serve over greens instead of bread
• Use light mayonnaise or a vegan mayo alternative
• Add more veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers

Perfect Pairings

Complete your meal with these complementary sides:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Potato chips or sweet potato fries
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Pasta salad
• Cup of tomato soup
• Coleslaw or potato salad

Common Questions About Chicken Salad with Grapes

How long does chicken salad with grapes last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, it will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For food safety, don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Can I freeze chicken salad with grapes?
I don’t recommend freezing this salad. The mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate when thawed, and the grapes and celery will become mushy.

What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. If cooking your own, I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too. You can even use canned chicken in a pinch!

Can I make this ahead for a party?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld. Make it up to a day ahead and store in the refrigerator.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply skip the sour cream and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

There’s something magical about the combination of ingredients in this chicken salad. The juicy grapes provide bursts of sweetness that contrast with the savory chicken and creamy dressing. The pecans and celery add necessary crunch, while the subtle tang from lemon juice and Dijon mustard keeps everything balanced.

I’ve made many versions of chicken salad over the years, but this one has earned a permanent spot in my regular rotation. My family requests it constantly, and it’s become my go-to for quick lunches and picnics.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, you can create something truly special that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Final Thoughts

Chicken salad with grapes is one of those perfect recipes that combines convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option, a make-ahead meal prep solution, or something special to serve guests, this recipe delivers every time.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and find as much joy in it as I have! It’s become a staple in our house, and I’m confident it will in yours too. The combination of juicy grapes, crunchy nuts, and tender chicken in a creamy dressing is simply irresistible.

Now go grab that rotisserie chicken and make something delicious today!