This tried-and-true chicken salad with grapeshas been one of my most beloved recipes for over 30 years—I’ve been whipping it up for loved ones, holidays, and everyday meals long before I started blogging. Over a decade ago, I posted this classic Southern version on Add a Pinch, and it has captured the hearts (and appetites!) of readers worldwide ever since, earning rave reviews, becoming a reader favorite, and staying a staple in so many homes!
Looking for the ultimate chicken salad with grapes recipe? This easy, crowd-pleasing dish combines tender chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, sweet cranberries, and roasted pecans in a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, sandwiches, or potlucks. With options for a lighter Greek yogurt version, it’s versatile, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 cups cooked, chopped chicken
- ▢ 1 cup chopped celery
- ▢ 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- ▢ 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- ▢ 1/2 cup roasted pecans, chopped
- ▢ 1 cup mayonnaise, or Greek Yogurt or cottage cheese
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ▢ celery leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Add chopped chicken to a large bowl along with celery, grapes, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, mayonnaise (or yogurt or cottage cheese), salt and pepper. If using chopped celery leaves, add these as well.
- Stir together until just combined. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Dressing Options:
Cottage Cheese: Replace all or a portion of the mayo with blended cottage cheese for a high-protein, lower-calorie dressing option.
Greek Yogurt: Replace all or a portion of the mayo with Greek yogurt. This provides more protein and fewer calories and fat than the mayo dressing, while being less protein and more calories and fat than the cottage cheese dressing option.
Note: Nutrition information is calculated using full-fat Greek yogurt.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Airtight container up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
- Freezer: Not recommended (grapes and dressing turn watery).
- Food Safety: Follow FDA “two-hour rule” (1 hour if >90°F). Chill promptly for picnics.
- Make-Ahead: Prep 1-2 days ahead—flavors meld perfectly!