CHICKEN WALDORF SALAD
Chicken Waldorf Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Waldorf Salad, featuring tender chunks of rotisserie chicken mixed with crisp apples, celery, sweet grapes, and crunchy walnuts, all dressed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This refreshing salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, picnic, or potluck gathering.
Why Make Chicken Waldorf Salad
Chicken Waldorf Salad provides a satisfying and nutritious meal option that is both delicious and easy to prepare. It combines the protein-rich goodness of rotisserie chicken with the freshness of fruits and vegetables, creating a flavorful ensemble that appeals to both adults and children. Whether served as a standalone dish or as a side, this salad is sure to please any palate.
How to Make Chicken Waldorf Salad
- In a bowl, combine the diced Granny Smith apple with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add the chopped rotisserie chicken, celery, halved grapes, toasted and chopped walnuts, and mayonnaise to the bowl.
- Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Waldorf Salad on a bed of spring greens or crisp leaf lettuce for a refreshing and nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can enjoy it on its own or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Garnish with additional chopped walnuts or fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Storage Info
Any leftover Chicken Waldorf Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to stir well before serving leftovers, as the dressing may settle at the bottom of the container.
Techniques or Tips
- When toasting walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to over-toast them, as they can quickly burn.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your preference for creaminess.
- For added sweetness and texture, you can include dried cranberries or raisins in the salad.
Variation
Feel free to customize Chicken Waldorf Salad to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing option, or add diced avocado for extra creaminess. Additionally, you can incorporate other fruits such as chopped pear or pineapple for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
FAQs about Chicken Waldorf Salad
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken? Yes, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as grilled or roasted chicken breasts or thighs. Simply chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.
- Can I make Chicken Waldorf Salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the salad.
- Are there any substitutes for walnuts in this recipe? If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different nut, you can substitute the walnuts with chopped pecans, almonds, or cashews. Alternatively, you can omit the nuts altogether if desired.
Chicken Waldorf Salad
Equipment
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 Granny Smith apple, cored, peeled, and diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the diced apple and lemon juice.
- Add the chopped rotisserie chicken, celery, halved grapes, toasted and chopped walnuts, and mayonnaise to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Serve the Chicken Waldorf Salad on a bed of spring greens or leaf lettuce.
