This Crunchy Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and savory flavors. Crisp apples and chewy craisins add a fruity pop, while walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and nutty depth. Tossed with tender chicken and a light dressing, this salad is both refreshing and hearty.
One crisp fall day, my boyfriend and I stumbled upon a cozy little pub while out and about. I decided to try their chicken salad sandwich and wow, it was no ordinary chicken salad. It had a surprising pop of flavor that instantly made it the best I’d ever tasted.
Of course, I had to come home and recreate it myself, adding my own twist. The best part? It’s such a quick and easy meal, especially when you use a rotisserie chicken.
What’s better than soup and a sandwich on a crisp fall day? Put this chicken salad between some delicious bread, add a bowl of my creamy roasted butternut squash soup, and you’ll be in absolute heaven. The warm, velvety soup perfectly complements the fresh, crunchy flavors of the sandwich—a perfect match!
When I’m feeling like eating healthy, I love serving my chicken salad in crisp lettuce wraps. It’s a great way to cut down on carbs while adding a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy chicken salad perfectly.
It makes for a light, satisfying lunch that feels just right. But when I want to treat myself to something a little heartier, I’ll pile it high on a slice of wholesome cranberry walnut bread—the sweet and nutty flavor takes it to the next level!
What apples are best for chicken salad?
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Honeycrisp – Juicy, sweet, with a nice crunch—perfect for adding a fresh bite.
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Fuji – Sweet and crisp with a subtle floral flavor.
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Gala – Milder and a little softer but still sweet and flavorful.
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Granny Smith – Tart and crisp—great if you want to balance the sweetness of craisins.
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Pink Lady – A good balance of sweet and tangy with a satisfying crunch.
How do I make chicken salad without mayo?
There are many ways to make chicken salad without mayo—and still keep it creamy and delicious! Here are a few great substitutes and ideas depending on the flavor and texture you’re going for:
1. Greek Yogurt
- Tip: Use plain Greek yogurt and season well with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the tang.
2. Sour Cream
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Tip: Great on its own or mixed with a little Dijon mustard.
3. Mashed Avocado
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Tip: Add lime juice and salt to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
4. Olive Oil & Lemon
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Tip: Add a touch of Dijon or honey for extra flavor.
5. Hummus
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Tip: Use plain or garlic hummus for a Mediterranean twist.
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Helpful Kitchen Tools:
Pyrex Simply Store Glass Food Storage Container, Snug Fit Non-Toxic Plastic BPA-Free Lids, Freezer Dishwasher Microwave Safe, 7 CupOXO Good Grips Plastic Utility Cutting Board 14.7
OXO Good Grips Apple Slicer, Corer and Divider,White
Vegetable Chopper, Pro Onion Chopper, 14 in 1Multifunctional Food Chopper, Kitchen Vegetable Slicer Dicer Cutter,Veggie Chopper With 8 Blades,Carrot and Garlic With Container (Gray) (Gray)
Grey Poupon Country Dijon Mustard (8 oz Jar)
Ocean Spray Craisins Original Dried Cranberries, 24 Ounce Value Pack
Ocean Spray Reduced Sugar Craisins, 43 oz
Main Ingredients Needed:
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Cooked chicken – Main component, protein
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Apple – Adds sweetness and crunch
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Dried cranberries – Chewy, sweet and tart
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Walnuts – Gives a nutty flavor with a crunch
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Celery – Has mild flavor with a crunch
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Mayonnaise – Classic creamy texture
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Dijon mustard – Adds a spicy kick
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Salt and black pepper – To taste
Step by step instructions to make Crunchy Apple Walnut Chicken Salad:
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In a large bowl, combine the chicken, diced apple, craisins, walnuts, and celery.
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In a small bowl, mix the mayo, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for 30 minutes if you like it cold, or serve immediately.
Serving Ideas:
There are so many delicious ways to enjoy chicken salad. My favorite option is to scoop it into fresh lettuce leaves for a crisp and refreshing lunch. If you’re in the mood for something more filling, serve it on toasted multigrain bread or a buttery croissant. My boyfriend loves to wrap his in a tortilla. No matter how you serve it, chicken salad is always a satisfying choice.
This chicken salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it for quick, easy lunches. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious option to have on hand.
Storage tips:
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Transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container.
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
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If the salad starts to release extra liquid from the apples or dressing separates, just give it a quick stir before serving.
Pro Tip:
If you’re prepping in advance, you can dice the apples right before serving to keep them extra crisp and fresh.
Crunchy Apple Walnut Chicken Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: no cooking
- Total Time: minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings
- Category: Salads
- Method: By hand
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (rotisserie works great!)
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1 medium apple, diced
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1/3 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
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1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
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1/2 cup celery, finely diced
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1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the chicken, diced apple, craisins, walnuts, and celery.
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In a small bowl, mix the mayo, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Chill for 30 minutes if you like it cold, or serve immediately.
