Simple Chicken Salad with Grapes

When it comes to a light, flavorful lunch that’s easy to throw together and perfect for meal prep, this Simple Chicken Salad with Grapes is one of my all-time favorites. Whether you’re using leftover chicken, canned chicken, or a store-bought rotisserie chicken, this creamy chicken salad is a great way to turn simple ingredients into something delicious.

What makes this recipe stand out? It’s the savory flavors from the green onions, fresh parsley, and the sweet red grapes that add a perfect burst of juicy sweetness. This is a classic chicken salad recipe that’s been made time and time again, and it never disappoints.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Easy: Chicken salad is one of those dishes that works for so many occasions. Whether you’re packing lunch for busy days, putting together a light lunch, or need a quick option for dinner, this one hits the spot.
• Versatile: It’s a great option for a low-carb diet when served in lettuce wraps, or you can go old-school with a chicken salad sandwich.
• Meal Prep: It’s also a great recipe to make a big batch of—store it in an airtight container, and it’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Ingredients for Chicken Salad with Grapes

• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked
• 1 cup red grapes, quartered
• 2 green onions, chopped thinly
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• Salt + black pepper, to taste

A Note on Ingredients

Using whole foods whenever possible makes a big difference in taste and nutrition. I like to grab sweet red grapes from the grocery store and opt for homemade or quality store-bought mayo made with simple ingredients. This recipe also works great with leftover rotisserie chicken—especially if you want to use up what’s in the fridge.

How to Make a Simple Chicken Salad with Grapes

If you’re new to making chicken salad, this might become your favorite way to enjoy it. And if you’ve been making it for years, give this version a try—it might just become one of your time favorites.

1. Combine the chicken, grapes, green onions, and parsley in a large bowl.
2. Add the mayonnaise and mix until everything is well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill for about 30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
5. Serve in a sandwich, with gluten-free crackers, or over a bed of greens or lettuce cups.

For best results, cook your chicken in broth with 2 or 3 bay leaves for extra depth of flavor. Let it cool in the broth—this helps keep it super tender and juicy.

Substitution Ideas

Here are a few suggestions for this easy chicken salad recipe if you want to mix it up a bit:

• Swap mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt or a combo of sour cream and mayo for a tangy twist.
• Use fresh dill or other fresh herbs like basil or tarragon.
• Add crunchy celery for texture.
• Mix in chopped red onion if you like a little kick.
• Try green seedless grapes, purple grapes, or green grapes if that’s what you have on hand.

Tips for the Best Texture

Using boneless skinless chicken breasts that are poached in broth with bay leaves gives the best texture—tender, moist, and full of flavor. Make sure everything is at room temperature before mixing so the creamy dressing coats evenly. And don’t skip the chill time—it allows the flavors to blend.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many different ways to serve this delicious chicken salad:

• In lettuce wraps or lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• Over a bed of greens with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• On whole grain bread or croissants for a chicken salad sandwich.
• With gluten-free crackers or pita chips.
• Stuffed into a hollowed-out tomato or avocado for a fun presentation.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad

Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Make sure it’s chilled quickly after serving—don’t leave it out at room temperature for too long.

If you’re packing it for meal prep, divide it into smaller containers so it’s easy to grab for lunch or a quick snack. Avoid freezing it—the creamy dressing doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

More Simple Sandwich Ideas

If you love easy, wholesome sandwiches like this chicken salad, here are a few more favorites to try:

• Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe with Mayo
• How to Make a Great BLT Sandwich
• Cast Iron Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

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