Simple Chicken Salad with Sweet Grapes

Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes, crisp celery, and tangy cranberries, all brought together with a light, creamy sour cream dressing. This delightful salad is the perfect make-ahead lunch option, ideal for busy schedules, and wonderfully served in sweet rolls or lettuce wraps.

For those seeking delicious and convenient lunch solutions, this chicken salad is a true gem, much like our refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad in a jar or the timeless Classic Waldorf Salad. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it an instant favorite for any meal.

Chicken salad in a bowl, ready to be served.

As the school year approaches and daily routines become more hectic, busy parents often find themselves searching for effortless yet nutritious lunch ideas for both children and adults. Beyond making my popular Ham and Cheese Tortilla Roll-Ups, I frequently prepare a large batch of this delectable Chicken Salad with Grapes. Its ‘make-ahead’ nature makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, saving precious time during a busy week. This particular version is not only lighter than traditional chicken salads but also completely nut-free, ensuring it’s a healthy and delicious option for almost everyone.

Imagine serving this vibrant salad nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls, crisp lettuce cups, or wholesome tortilla wraps for an incredibly easy and satisfying lunch or a light dinner. The delightful crunch of fresh celery, the burst of sweetness from juicy grapes, and the subtle tartness of dried cranberries all complement the tender, cooked, and cubed chicken beautifully. Every spoonful of this Chicken Salad with Grapes is a symphony of diverse flavors and irresistible textures, promising a truly enjoyable eating experience.

Overhead shot of cubed chicken, grapes, celery and craisins in glass bowl, ingredients for chicken salad.

Contents

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes

This Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes, Celery, and Cranberries isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary solution designed for modern lifestyles. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this chicken salad comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for quick meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Its flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully after chilling, meaning you can prepare a big batch on Sunday and enjoy fresh, delicious lunches all week long. This is ideal for busy individuals and families.
Lighter and Healthier Option: We’ve taken a classic favorite and given it a healthier twist by opting for a lighter, sour cream-based dressing. This significantly reduces the calorie and fat content without compromising on that coveted creamy texture.
Nut-Free Delight: For those with nut allergies or preferences, this recipe is naturally nut-free, making it a safe and inclusive choice for school lunches, office potlucks, and family picnics.
Explosion of Flavors and Textures: Each bite offers a delightful contrast – the tender chicken, the crisp crunch of celery, the juicy sweetness of grapes, and the tangy chewiness of dried cranberries. It’s a harmonious blend that keeps your taste buds excited.
Incredibly Versatile: Whether you serve it in traditional sandwiches, on sweet Hawaiian rolls, in gluten-free wraps, or light lettuce cups, this salad adapts to various dietary needs and preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it their way.

How to Lighten Up Your Chicken Salad Dressing

One of the best features of this chicken salad is its lightened-up dressing, which perfectly balances creaminess with a fresh, vibrant taste. Traditionally, chicken salads rely heavily on mayonnaise, which can make them quite rich. However, I’ve found a simple yet effective way to achieve that desirable creamy texture without the extra calories and fat.

My secret lies in using a base of sour cream or Greek yogurt. These ingredients provide an excellent tang and body to the dressing. For a quarter cup of the dressing, I incorporate just two tablespoons of mayonnaise. This small amount is crucial; if you’ve ever made a creamy pasta salad with only sour cream, you might have noticed it loses its creaminess after chilling. A touch of mayonnaise helps maintain that smooth, luscious texture even when cold.

Furthermore, you don’t have to stick to conventional mayo. The market now offers a fantastic array of healthier mayonnaise alternatives. I personally favor organic mayo and avocado oil mayo, both of which contribute good flavor and beneficial fats. These choices allow you to enjoy your chicken salad guilt-free, knowing you’re making a healthier decision for your body.

The Perfect Chicken: Preparation Tips

The star of any chicken salad is, of course, the chicken. The quality and preparation of your chicken can truly elevate the entire dish. While you can certainly cook chicken specifically for this recipe, it’s also a fantastic way to utilize leftovers and reduce food waste.

Utilizing Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken:

One of the quickest ways to make this salad is by using pre-cooked chicken. Leftover roasted chicken from a previous dinner or a store-bought rotisserie chicken works exceptionally well. Simply shred or cube the chicken once it has cooled completely. Rotisserie chicken, in particular, often comes seasoned and incredibly tender, adding an extra layer of flavor without any additional effort.

Cooking Chicken from Scratch:

If you prefer to cook your chicken fresh, there are several methods to achieve perfectly tender results:

Instant Pot: My preferred method for speed and efficiency! Simply place chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless) in your Instant Pot with about a cup of water or broth. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method yields incredibly juicy and easy-to-shred chicken.
Boiling/Poaching: A classic method. Place chicken breasts in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature). This method keeps the chicken moist and mild, allowing the dressing flavors to shine.
Baking: For a hands-off approach, bake chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper before baking. This method can add a slightly richer flavor.
Grilling: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, grill chicken breasts until fully cooked. The char from the grill adds a unique dimension to the salad.

No matter which method you choose, always allow the chicken to cool completely on a cutting board before dicing it into ½-inch cubes. This ensures the chicken retains its moisture and makes for cleaner cuts, contributing to the salad’s overall texture and presentation.

Side shot of Hawaiian rolls with chicken salad with grapes on white plate, ready to be eaten.

Elevating Your Chicken Salad: Customization and Variations

While this Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes is delightful as is, it also serves as an excellent base for customization. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Additions for Extra Flavor and Texture:

Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh dill, parsley, chives, or tarragon can add a burst of freshness and aromatic depth.
Additional Vegetables: Finely diced bell peppers (red or green) add color and a subtle crunch. A bit of red onion, very finely minced, can offer a sharp counterpoint.
Fruit Power: While grapes and cranberries are key, consider adding diced apple for extra sweetness and crunch, or even a few chopped mandarin oranges for a citrusy twist.
Nuts (If Not Nut-Free): If allergies aren’t a concern, toasted pecans or walnuts can introduce a wonderful nutty flavor and crunch.
Seed Boost: For a nut-free crunch, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Ingredient Substitutions:

Chicken Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, this recipe works beautifully with cooked turkey (especially leftover holiday turkey) or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Dressing Base: For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality vegan sour cream or Greek yogurt alternative, along with vegan mayonnaise.
Fruit Choices: Experiment with different types of grapes (green or black) or even small berries like blueberries in place of some of the cranberries.
Spice It Up: A pinch of curry powder, a dash of hot sauce, or a hint of smoked paprika can transform the flavor profile entirely.

Remember, cooking is an art, and recipes are merely guidelines. Feel free to make this Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes your own! Experimenting with additions and substitutions is how you discover your perfect version.

Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion

The versatility of this chicken salad means it can be enjoyed in countless ways, making it suitable for a casual lunch, an elegant brunch, or even a picnic spread.

Sweet Hawaiian Rolls: This is a personal favorite! The slight sweetness of Hawaiian rolls perfectly complements the savory, sweet, and tangy notes of the salad, creating delightful sliders that are fun to eat and incredibly popular at gatherings.
Classic Sandwiches: Serve it between two slices of your favorite bread – whole wheat for a healthier option, sourdough for tang, or brioche for a richer experience.
Fluffy Croissants: For a more upscale touch, spoon the chicken salad into light and buttery croissants. This traditional pairing is always a hit.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb and gluten-free option, use large lettuce leaves (such as butter lettuce or romaine) as wraps. They add a refreshing crunch and keep the meal light.
Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken salad into flour tortillas or gluten-free wraps for an easy, portable meal.
On a Bed of Greens: Transform it into a complete meal by serving a generous scoop over a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula. You can drizzle with a light vinaigrette if desired.
With Crackers or Pita Chips: For a quick snack or appetizer, serve the chicken salad alongside your favorite crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the greatest advantages of this Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes is its make-ahead convenience. Preparing it in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to fully meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious dish.

Preparation: You can prepare the chicken, chop the vegetables, and mix the dressing up to 2-3 days in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad 1-2 hours before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
Storage: Once assembled, the chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it remains safe to eat, the celery might lose some of its crispness over time.
Freezing: Chicken salad with a mayonnaise or sour cream base is generally not recommended for freezing, as the dressing can separate upon thawing, leading to an undesirable texture.
Serving Temperature: This salad is best served chilled. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to ensure it’s cool and refreshing.

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad Every Time

Use Cooked and Cooled Chicken: Always ensure your chicken is completely cooled before dicing and mixing. Warm chicken will wilt the vegetables and can affect the dressing’s texture.
Dice Evenly: Cut your chicken, celery, and grapes into roughly ½-inch pieces for consistent texture in every bite.
Don’t Over-Dress: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more if needed. You want the ingredients to be coated, not swimming in dressing.
Chill Thoroughly: While you can eat it right away, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) allows the flavors to truly marry and enhance.
Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. A little extra can make a big difference.

More Delicious Salad Recipes to Try

Hearty Chickpea Salad
Fresh BLT Sandwich with Avocado
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad

If you enjoyed crafting and tasting this delightful recipe, we’d love to see your creation! Snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Remember to tag me @crunchycreamysweet so I can admire your dish and leave a comment! 😀

Chicken salad in a small bowl, ready for serving.

Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes

Author: Anna

Easy Chicken Salad with Grapes, celery and cranberries, tossed with light sour cream dressing. Perfect lunch you can make ahead and enjoy served in sweet rolls.

5 out of 5 stars from 3 votes

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Prep Time: 10 mins |
Cook Time: 10 mins |
Total Time: 20 mins

Course: Salad |
Cuisine: American

Servings: 4 people |
Calories: 180 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb cooked chicken, cut into ½” cubes
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup red grapes, halved
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayo
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

In a small mixing bowl or a measuring cup, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayo, salt, and pepper.
Place all remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add dressing and toss together. Cover and chill until ready to use.
Serve in sweet Hawaiian rolls or tortilla wraps or lettuce cups.

Notes

You don’t have to use the classic mayo either. Right now there are a lot of healthier options in most stores like organic mayo or avocado oil mayo.

Nutrition Information