The moment you take a bite of this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans, your taste buds will dance with joy. Picture tender chicken mingling with crisp grapes, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing that coats everything just right. Buffalo Chicken Sliders for a party The aromas wafting from your kitchen will make even the most patient of friends impatiently hover around the table like hungry vultures. Creamy Potato Corn Chowder.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best type of chicken for this salad?
- Can I make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans ahead of time?
- How do I prevent my grapes from becoming mushy?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this dish for a picnic; my friend Laura practically declared it a life-changing experience. We spent the day basking in the sunshine, devouring every last spoonful as if it were gourmet gold. Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply need a quick lunch that feels fancy, this Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans has got you covered!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays
- Its sweet and savory flavor profile delights everyone at the table
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any gathering
- You can enjoy it as a sandwich filling or on its own for a lighter meal
I once brought this dish to a family reunion, and my cousin didn’t stop talking about it for weeks!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Red Grapes: Choose firm grapes for sweetness; they add a pop of color and flavor.
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring out their nuttiness; feel free to substitute with walnuts if preferred.
Greek Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt for creaminess without too much guilt; it’s healthier than mayo!
Dijon Mustard: Adds a depth of flavor; choose smooth or grainy according to your preference.
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess of the yogurt; raw honey works best.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste depending on your personal preference.
Fresh Herbs (like Dill or Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly; they add brightness to every bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flavorful Oven Roasted Cauliflower.
Bake Until Juicy: Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs until well combined. The aroma will make you want to dive in right away.
Add the Mix-ins: Gently fold in shredded chicken, halved grapes, and chopped pecans into the dressing mixture. Be careful not to crush those beautiful grapes!
Toss Gently: Stir everything together until each piece is well-coated. You want every bite to be as delicious as the last!
Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together!
Enjoy making your Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans! It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress your guests at brunch! For more inspiration, check out this Feta Chicken Meatballs recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a perfect balance of sweet and savory
- The creamy texture combined with the crunch of pecans makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking chicken until golden brown, then let it cool before chopping. Prepare the dressing while cooling to save time and enhance flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or add some diced apples for extra crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid reheating; serve chilled for best flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut and unbeatable flavor
- Toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness, making every bite irresistible
- Always taste your dressing before mixing it into the salad to ensure it’s just right!
Sometimes my friends call me the “Chicken Salad Whisperer” after I brought this dish to a potluck and received endless compliments. One friend even requested it for their birthday dinner!
FAQ
What is the best type of chicken for this salad?
Cooked rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance to let flavors meld beautifully.
How do I prevent my grapes from becoming mushy?
Choose firm grapes and refrigerate them until you’re ready to mix into the salad.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a delightful blend of tender chicken, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Ideal for picnics, lunch, or casual gatherings, this recipe is both simple to prepare and visually appealing. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs until well mixed.
- Gently fold in shredded chicken, halved grapes, and chopped pecans.
- Toss gently until well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
