There is something truly magical about this Fall Chicken Salad Recipe that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. It’s a delightfully refreshing blend of tender chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and a touch of tart cranberries, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with a hint of mustard and apple cider vinegar. Each ingredient works together to create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that feel both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch or a show-stopping side dish for your seasonal gatherings, this salad is an absolute winner that celebrates fall in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Fall Chicken Salad Recipe is simple yet essential, contributing its own unique touch of flavor, texture, or color to this gorgeous dish. From crisp apples to toasty nuts, each element plays a vital role in bringing this recipe to life.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped): This forms the hearty, protein-packed base of the salad.
- 1/2 cup diced apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji): Adds a sweet crunch that brightens every bite.
- 1/2 cup red grapes (halved): Juicy pops of natural sweetness that perfectly complement the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries: Lends a tart contrast and chewy texture to balance the salad.
- 1/4 cup chopped celery: Brings refreshing crispness and a green color to the mix.
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted): Adds nutty depth and crunchiness for extra dimension.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Offers a mild onion flavor and a splash of fresh green.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: The creamy dressing base that ties everything together.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Injects a gentle tang and a bit of zing to the dressing.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Brings bright acidity that lifts all the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances the overall flavor perfectly.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Fall Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by tossing together the cooked chicken, diced apples, halved grapes, dried cranberries, celery, toasted nuts, and sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl. This colorful mixture sets the stage for a delightful medley of textures and flavors, so give it a gentle stir to distribute everything evenly.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This blend adds the perfect balance of creaminess and tang, which makes every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the chicken and fruit mixture and gently toss everything until every ingredient is nicely coated. This careful mixing ensures each forkful bursts with flavor without crushing the delicate fruits.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For best results, refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to cool down, making it an inviting dish for any autumn day.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like a hint of bright green freshness and a little herbal lift. Now your Fall Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Fall Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a few additional toasted nuts on top enhances the salad’s appearance and adds an extra burst of flavor. For an elegant touch, try thin slices of apple fanned out beside the serving salad.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs beautifully with crusty whole grain bread, buttery croissants, or crunchy crackers. It also shines alongside warm butternut squash soup or roasted root vegetables for a complete and cozy fall meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Fall Chicken Salad Recipe in crisp lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing bite or stuff it inside avocados or pita pockets for a fun twist. Presentation can completely transform the experience, making the salad feel extra special and perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the salad maintains its delightful texture if kept chilled properly.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the fresh fruit and creamy dressing, which can separate and become watery when thawed. For best quality, avoid freezing any leftovers.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, chilled salad, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, give it a quick stir after bringing it to room temperature if it’s been refrigerated and enjoy it cold for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering great flavor and texture for the Fall Chicken Salad Recipe.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something healthier?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a wonderful alternative that adds creaminess with fewer calories and a bit of tang, making your salad lighter without sacrificing taste.
What types of apples work best in this salad?
Firm and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully because they hold their shape and add a fresh, crisp sweetness that balances the salad perfectly.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the Fall Chicken Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful if you’re serving it with bread or crackers—choose gluten-free options to keep it safe.
Can I add any spices for more fall flavor?
Definitely. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg stirred into the dressing adds a warm, cozy note that enhances the autumn vibe of the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Fall Chicken Salad Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors and textures, and perfect for any occasion that calls for a fresh, seasonal touch. I hope you try this recipe soon and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do.
Print
Fall Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and refreshing Fall Chicken Salad featuring tender cooked chicken breast combined with crisp apples, juicy grapes, dried cranberries, celery, and toasted nuts. Tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy snack during the autumn season. It can be served in lettuce wraps, on croissants, or with crackers, and is easily customizable with added spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1/2 cup diced apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1/2 cup red grapes (halved)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, diced apple, halved red grapes, dried cranberries, chopped celery, toasted nuts, and sliced green onions. Mix gently to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning and Chill: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover the bowl and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the salad in lettuce wraps, on croissants, or with crackers for a versatile and satisfying meal.
Notes
- This salad is delicious served in lettuce wraps, on croissants, or with crackers.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra fall flavor.
