California Grape Chicken Salad Recipe
Introduction
This California Grape Chicken Salad is a refreshing and easy dish perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner. The combination of tender chicken, sweet red grapes, crunchy nuts, and crisp lettuce tossed in a tangy lemon balsamic dressing creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 4 cups lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), chopped
- 1/4 cup lemon balsamic dressing
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, halved red grapes, chopped lettuce, and nuts.
- Step 2: Drizzle the lemon balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Substitute the nuts with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for varying texture.
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice as a creamy alternative to the lemon balsamic dressing.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible and add just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of grapes for this salad?
Yes, green grapes or a mix of red and green grapes work well and add a different sweetness and color to the salad.
Is it better to use cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Both work well—rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, while homemade cooked chicken lets you control seasoning and texture.
PrintCalifornia Grape Chicken Salad Recipe
A refreshing and healthy California Grape Chicken Salad combining tender chicken, sweet red grapes, crunchy nuts, and fresh lettuce, all tossed in a zesty lemon balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a summery dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 4 cups fresh lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans), roughly chopped
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and chop the lettuce, halve the red grapes, and roughly chop the nuts. Ensure the chicken is cooked, shredded, or diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, lettuce, and nuts. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest taste or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the mixed nuts with your favorite nuts or seeds to accommodate allergies.
- For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
- This salad can be served on its own or with crusty bread for a more filling meal.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Adjust sweetness in the dressing by varying the honey amount or omitting it entirely for a tangier taste.
Keywords: California Grape Chicken Salad, chicken salad, grape salad, healthy lunch, lemon balsamic dressing, easy salad recipe
