Apple Chicken Salad Recipe: Sweet, Crunchy, and Healthy

Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this healthy chicken salad with apples:

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped or shredded)

  • 1 large apple (chopped)

  • 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional for crunch)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp honey (for a touch of sweetness)

How to Make Apple Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by cutting your cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat. Dice the apple and red onion finely to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and honey until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and nuts (if using). Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything until well coated.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Your apple chicken salad is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

Best Ways to Serve Apple Chicken Salad

1. As a Sandwich

Pile the salad onto croissants, sandwich bread, or a wrap for a delicious, satisfying meal.

2. On a Bed of Greens

Serve over mixed greens, spinach, or arugula for a light and nutritious lunch.

3. With Crackers or Pita Chips

Enjoy it as a dip with whole-grain crackers, pita chips, or even toasted baguette slices for an easy and fun appetizer.

4. Stuffed in an Avocado or Lettuce Wrap

For a low-carb option, scoop the salad into avocado halves or crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and healthy meal.

5. In a Whole Grain Bowl

Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a more filling, nutrient-dense meal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

How Long Does It Last?

This chicken salad with apples stays fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle over time.

Can You Freeze It?

No, freezing is not recommended as the mayo and yogurt-based dressing may separate, affecting the texture and flavor.

Meal Prep Tips:

  • Store in individual meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

  • If making in advance, keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving for the best texture.

  • Add the apples last to prevent browning. Toss them in a little lemon juice to help maintain freshness.

  • Use an airtight container to prevent any moisture loss and maintain the salad’s crispness.

Substitutions and Variations

Alternative Ingredients:

  • Swap the mayonnaise for avocado or an extra scoop of Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

  • Use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie or canned chicken for a smokier flavor.

  • Substitute dried cranberries with raisins, pomegranate seeds, or chopped grapes for a different sweetness.

  • Try different nuts like pecans, cashews, or sunflower seeds for a unique crunch.

  • Use different dressings such as balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing for a flavorful twist.

  • Add extra veggies like shredded carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.

FAQ

How long does apple chicken salad last in the fridge?

It can last for 2-3 days in an airtight container, though the texture may change over time.

Can I make apple chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the apples closer to serving to prevent browning.

What nuts work best in apple chicken salad?

Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a nice crunch and complement the flavors well.

How can I prevent the apples from browning in the salad?

Toss the apple pieces in lemon juice before mixing them into the salad to prevent browning.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, dried cranberries, grapes, or pomegranate seeds are great additions for extra sweetness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This apple chicken salad recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, crunchy, and creamy flavors that makes it a go-to meal for any occasion. It’s nutritious, packed with protein, and incredibly easy to customize. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a family picnic, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit!

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how you like it in the comments below!

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Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

Try this Apple Chicken Salad Recipe! Juicy chicken, crisp apples, and a creamy dressing create a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Chef’s knife
  • cutting boards
  • Measuring cups
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken chopped or shredded
  • 1 large apple chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds optional
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp honey

Instructions
 

  • Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the apple and red onion finely.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and honey until smooth.
  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and nuts (if using).
  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until well coated.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Keyword apple chicken salad recipe, healthy chicken salad with apples, chicken salad with apples and cranberries, easy apple chicken salad, best apple chicken salad

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