Easy Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe for a Fresh and Crunchy Meal

When you’re craving something refreshing, satisfying, and easy to prepare, a chicken Waldorf salad is the perfect solution. This classic dish brings together crisp apples, juicy grapes, tender chunks of chicken, and crunchy walnuts in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a flavor-packed combination that’s both timeless and incredibly versatile.

If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for ease, this chicken Waldorf salad recipe is one you’ll want to bookmark. With just a few fresh ingredients and a quick dressing, you can pull together this dish in about 15 minutes. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week, feeding a crowd, or just making lunch for yourself, this is the recipe you didn’t know you needed.

What Is Chicken Waldorf Salad?

The Origin of the Waldorf Salad

The Waldorf salad first made its debut in 1893 at the famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. It started as a simple combination of apples, celery, and mayonnaise—yes, no chicken back then! Over the years, the salad evolved, and eventually, chicken and walnuts were added to turn it into the more satisfying dish we know today.

Why Add Chicken to Waldorf Salad?

Adding chicken takes the salad from a side dish to a complete meal. You get:

• A good source of lean protein
• A filling, satisfying bite
• An easy way to repurpose leftover chicken

In short, it’s not just about tradition; it’s about flavor, texture, and making your meals work harder for you.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

If you’re still on the fence about trying it, here are some quick reasons to give this Waldorf chicken salad a go:

• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes.
• No cooking required: Perfect for hot days or busy nights.
• Fresh and flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy.
• Great for meal prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to dietary preferences.

This chicken Waldorf salad recipe is more than just another salad; it’s a smart, delicious choice that works with your schedule and satisfies your cravings.

Chicken Waldorf Salad Ingredients

Before you get started, take a look at what you’ll need. Here’s a helpful ingredient breakdown to keep things organized and adaptable:

Ingredient Table

How to Make Chicken Waldorf Salad

Let’s walk through this chicken Waldorf salad recipe step-by-step. You’ll be amazed how quickly it comes together!

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Juice of ½ lemon

Mix until smooth and creamy. This dressing brings tang, richness, and ties all the fresh ingredients together.

Step 2: Prep the Produce and Protein

• Chop your celery into small pieces.
• Quarter the grapes.
• Core and chop your Granny Smith apples (leave the skin on for color and texture).
• Cube your cooked chicken.
• Finely chop the mint, if using.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl:

• Add the celery, grapes, apples, chicken, and mint.
• Pour the dressing over the top.
• Toss gently to coat everything evenly without breaking the fruit.

Step 4: Final Touches

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Serving Suggestions

Your Waldorf chicken salad is versatile enough to fit just about any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Over a bed of leafy greens for a light, low-carb lunch.
• In a croissant or wrap for a hearty sandwich.
• Scooped into lettuce cups for a fun, finger-friendly appetizer.
• Paired with crackers for an easy snack plate.
• As a potluck or picnic dish that holds up well outside the fridge for short periods.

Storage Tips for Chicken Waldorf Salad

How to Store Leftovers

• Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It’s best consumed within 1–2 days.
• For longer-lasting crunch, store the walnuts separately and add them just before eating.

Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the entire salad a day in advance. If you’re really planning ahead, you can mix everything except the apples and walnuts. Add those the day of serving to preserve their texture and brightness.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some fun and flavorful tweaks:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey, tuna, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Use different nuts: Try pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds.
• Add sweetness: Dried cranberries or raisins give it a fruity pop.
• Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free mayo or plain avocado mash.
• Boost the veggies: Add shredded carrots, spinach, or red onion for extra nutrition.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: ~20g
• Fat: ~24g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~15g

Note: Nutrition values will vary based on exact ingredients used.

FAQs About Chicken Waldorf Salad

What is the difference between Waldorf salad and chicken Waldorf salad?

Waldorf salad is the original version made with apples, celery, and mayonnaise. When you add chicken, it becomes a chicken Waldorf salad, turning it into a more filling and protein-rich main dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for chicken Waldorf salad?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It’s flavorful, already cooked, and ready to use. Just remove the skin and shred or cube the meat before adding.

How long does chicken Waldorf salad last in the fridge?

You can store it for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s kept cold and sealed tightly. The apples may brown slightly, but a splash of lemon juice helps prevent that.

Is this Waldorf chicken salad recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged items like mayonnaise or mustard to be safe.

Can I make a dairy-free version of this recipe for Waldorf salad with chicken?

Yes, you can! Just swap in a dairy-free mayonnaise or use mashed avocado for a creamy texture without any dairy.

Conclusion

This chicken Waldorf salad recipe is the kind of dish that checks every box. It’s fast, flavorful, customizable, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re new to Waldorf salads or already a fan, this version brings a satisfying twist that will keep you coming back.

So next time you’re wondering what to do with leftover chicken or craving something crisp and fresh, remember this recipe for Waldorf salad with chicken. It might just become your new lunchtime favorite.

If you try it, leave a comment with your experience or share this with a friend who could use a little lunch inspiration!

Easy Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe for a Fresh and Crunchy Meal

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• Author: Chef Rina
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

This fresh and crunchy Chicken Waldorf Salad is a modern twist on the traditional favorite. Made with crisp apples, juicy grapes, tender roast chicken, and a creamy tangy dressing, it’s the perfect light lunch or easy make-ahead meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Juice of ½ lemon

For the salad:

• 5 celery ribs, chopped

• 2 cups red grapes, quartered

• 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped

• 2 cups cooked roast chicken, chilled and cubed

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

 

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.

• In a medium bowl, combine the chopped celery, grapes, apples, chicken, and mint.

• Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Divide the salad onto serving plates and top each with a generous sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

• Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one day for enhanced flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: Approximately 380 per serving