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chicken waldorf salad copycat recipe

Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

Elaine Gordon
When it comes to light, satisfying meals, Chicken Waldorf Salad is a classic choice. It’s refreshing, versatile, and, above all, delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 414 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 cup or more Coarsely Chopped, Soaked and Dried Pecans (or Toasted Pecans)
  • 1 large Apple Diced
  • 1 stalk Celery Sliced Thin
  • 2 whole Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 3/4 cup Halved Seedless Grapes
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/4 Lemon
  • 3/4 cup Creamy Mayonnaise

Instructions
 

  • Start by boiling or baking the chicken breasts. If boiling, place the chicken in a pot of salted water. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, typically about 15-20 minutes.
  • If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then bake for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
  • Let the chicken cool before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth consistency. This dressing is creamy but has a nice tangy kick, thanks to the yogurt and mustard.
  • While the chicken cools, it’s time to chop up your vegetables and fruits. Dice the apple, slice the celery, and halve the grapes. Make sure you chop everything into uniform pieces for consistency in each bite. A tip? Leave the skin on the apples for added color and nutrients.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, apples, celery, grapes, and pecans. Mix gently to keep some of the grapes intact.
  • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together gently until all ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
  • Now, it’s time for the finishing touches. Season with salt and black pepper to your preference. A pinch of extra lemon juice can elevate the flavor.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least an hour. This step is vital for merging the flavors gracefully. Serve it alone or on a bed of greens for a lovely presentation.

Notes

  • Rotisserie Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken to save time. It adds flavor and cuts down on prep.
  • Add More Fruits: Don't hesitate to experiment. Try adding diced pears or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
  • Nuts for Crunch: Ensure your nuts are fresh. Toasting them brings out their flavor and adds an irresistible crunch.
  • Be Creative with Dressing: If you're not a fan of mayo, consider a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version.
  • Make Ahead: This salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge. Make it a day in advance for perfect party prep.

Nutrition

Calories: 414kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 5gFat: 33.1gSaturated Fat: 21.7gSodium: 253mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
Keyword chicken waldorf salad recipe
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