Chicken Waldorf Salad

I’ve always had a soft spot for fresh, vibrant dishes, and Chicken Waldorf Salad is no exception. This delightful mix of flavors and textures brings back memories of sunny picnics and family gatherings where laughter mingles with the scent of fresh ingredients. Imagine biting into tender pieces of chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet, juicy apples, all perfectly coated in a creamy dressing. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting friends for lunch or looking for a refreshing dinner option, Chicken Waldorf Salad is always a winner. I love how it combines simple ingredients into something special, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients Overview for Chicken Waldorf Salad

The ingredients in Chicken Waldorf Salad work harmoniously to create a balanced, flavorful dish. Each ingredient brings something unique to the table, contributing to the overall deliciousness. The key players include succulent chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet apples, all enhanced by a creamy dressing that ties everything together.

• 7 oz poached chicken breast – The star of the salad; tender and flavorful, this chicken provides protein and heartiness.
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth – Used for poaching the chicken, ensuring it’s moist and well-seasoned.
• 1 medium apple, peeled and cut into small cubes – I recommend Granny Smith for its tartness that balances the creamy dressing.
• 1 cup red seedless grapes, cut in half – Sweet and juicy, these grapes add a burst of flavor.
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped – Adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of earthiness to the salad.
• 1/4 cup light Hellman’s mayonnaise – Provides creaminess to the dressing without overwhelming flavors.
• 2 tbsp 0% Greek yogurt – Adds a tangy note and lightens up the dressing.
• Kosher salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
• 2 tbsp pecans or walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch; choose your favorite nut for a personal touch.
• 6 cups mixed baby greens like spinach and arugula – A fresh bed for the salad, providing vibrant color and flavor.

Recipe Directions for Chicken Waldorf Salad

Making Chicken Waldorf Salad is a straightforward process that you can complete in a little time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. To poach the chicken breast, begin by placing it in a small pot and covering it with low sodium chicken broth. If the broth doesn’t completely cover the chicken, add a bit of water. This will ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
2. Add a sprinkle of kosher salt and pepper to taste. You can also toss in a piece of celery and its leaves for added flavor. If you’d like, feel free to add herbs such as parsley for extra aroma. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, watching for it to bubble.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. This is key for gently cooking the chicken. Let it simmer for about five minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through but still tender.
4. After five minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Cover it tightly and let the chicken sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time is crucial, as the chicken will continue to cook and reach the perfect internal temperature of 160 degrees.
5. Once the chicken is cooled, drain it and cut it into small cubes. You want bite-sized pieces that will mix well with the other ingredients.
6. In a large bowl, combine the light Hellman’s mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. This creamy dressing will coat all the salad components beautifully.
7. Add the cubed chicken, grapes, apples, and chopped celery to the bowl. Gently fold everything together, making sure each piece is coated in the creamy dressing.
8. After mixing, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can let it chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours if you have time.
9. Right before serving, mix in the pecans or walnuts. This step ensures they remain crunchy and add texture to the salad.
10. Serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad over a bed of mixed baby greens. The greens add freshness and color, enhancing the overall presentation of the dish.

Expert Tips about Chicken Waldorf Salad

You’ll find that making Chicken Waldorf Salad is a joy, but here are some expert tips to enhance your experience even further.

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within two days.
• Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the chicken and greens will degrade once thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add other fruits like dried cranberries or chopped oranges for a twist!
• Seasonal Menus: This salad is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a refreshing option on warm days.

Serving Options for Chicken Waldorf Salad

When it comes to serving Chicken Waldorf Salad, you have plenty of delightful options to consider!

• As a Standalone Meal: Serve it alone for a light lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• On a Bed of Greens: For a presentation that wows, serve the salad on a bed of mixed baby greens, making each bite a crisp delight.
• Picnic Gatherings: This salad is a perfect choice for picnics! It travels well and can be enjoyed cold.
• Pair with Light Sides: Complement it with a bowl of soup or a platter of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Special Occasions: It’s an excellent dish for brunches or summer parties, adding a touch of elegance to your menu.
• Creative Serving Ideas: Consider serving individual portions in mason jars for a fun and portable option.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Waldorf Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any occasion. Its refreshing ingredients and creamy dressing come together beautifully, making it a meal you’ll want to share with friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Chicken Waldorf Salad

The ultimate light meal, Chicken Waldorf Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes for a refreshing dish. Perfect for lunch or a picnic, it's easy to throw together and sure to impress. Try making it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 3 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 7 oz poached chicken breast
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium apple peeled and cut into small cubes
• 1 cup red seedless grapes cut in half
• 1/2 cup celery chopped
• 1/4 cup light Hellman's mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp 0% Greek yogurt
• Kosher salt to taste
• 2 tbsp pecans or walnuts
• 6 cups mixed baby greens like spinach and arugula

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. To poach the chicken breast, begin by placing it in a small pot and covering it with low sodium chicken broth. If the broth doesn’t completely cover the chicken, add a bit of water. This will ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
2. Add a sprinkle of kosher salt and pepper to taste. You can also toss in a piece of celery and its leaves for added flavor. If you’d like, feel free to add herbs such as parsley for extra aroma. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, watching for it to bubble.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. This is key for gently cooking the chicken. Let it simmer for about five minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through but still tender.
4. After five minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Cover it tightly and let the chicken sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time is crucial, as the chicken will continue to cook and reach the perfect internal temperature of 160 degrees.
5. Once the chicken is cooled, drain it and cut it into small cubes. You want bite-sized pieces that will mix well with the other ingredients.
6. In a large bowl, combine the light Hellman's mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. This creamy dressing will coat all the salad components beautifully.
7. Add the cubed chicken, grapes, apples, and chopped celery to the bowl. Gently fold everything together, making sure each piece is coated in the creamy dressing.
8. After mixing, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can let it chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours if you have time.
9. Right before serving, mix in the pecans or walnuts. This step ensures they remain crunchy and add texture to the salad.
10. Serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad over a bed of mixed baby greens. The greens add freshness and color, enhancing the overall presentation of the dish.

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within two days.
• Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the chicken and greens will degrade once thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add other fruits like dried cranberries or chopped oranges for a twist!
• Seasonal Menus: This salad is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a refreshing option on warm days.

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Meet Naomi Prince

Cooking is about excitement, and I love taking simple ingredients and turning them into something bold. I work on every aspect of the blog, from brainstorming zesty new combinations to styling the final plate. I tested this recipe in my own home to guarantee it packs the perfect punch of flavor for you.