The Quintessential Chicken and Grape Salad a Right Proper Treat

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a lunch that's a bit fancy? This chicken and grape salad recipe is just the ticket. It's proper lush, super simple, and guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.

Honestly, what's not to love about sweet grapes and creamy chicken?

Brief Overview

This classic originated in the States, but the combo of savoury and sweet is timeless. Ready in under an hour, it's an easy lunch recipes with chicken .

The recipe makes four servings. This creamy chicken salad recipe is perfect for summer picnics and light lunches.

Main Benefits

Grapes provide a good dose of antioxidants. This dish is brilliant served as a picnic salad ideas . What makes it special? This chicken grape salad with walnuts is the ultimate make-ahead salad.

What Makes This Chicken Salad So Special?

Okay, so you might be thinking, "Another chicken salad with grapes recipe?" But trust me, this one's different. This grape and chicken salad is all about balance and, of course, ease!

Its easy chicken salad recipe allows you to whip up a posh version of the traditional British chicken salad sandwich with very little effort.

I actually messed this recipe up so badly the first time. The key is to let the chicken cool completely before mixing it with the dressing.

Don't be like me!

Is This the Perfect Summer Salad Recipes ?

Honestly, yes! This is your answer to a make-ahead salad recipes . It's light, refreshing, and packed with flavour. It's perfect for those hot summer days when you don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

It is a nice variation of a light lunch recipes with chicken . Plus, it travels well, making it ideal for picnics or barbecues.

Here are chicken salad variations , with vegan mayo for example!

What You Need to Get Started

Right, let's get down to brass tacks. You'll need some chicken, grapes (obvs), celery, red onion, nuts (optional but delicious), and a few bits for the dressing.

Don't worry; the ingredient list is just below.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Right then, are you ready to make this chicken and grape salad recipe ? Honestly, it's so easy, even my nan could do it! Plus, it's cracking for using up leftover chicken.

Let's dive into what you need, yeah?

Main Ingredients: The Nitty Gritty

Okay, so you need:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Good quality chicken is key. Look for plump breasts with a nice, even colour.
• 1 cup (150g) red seedless grapes, halved.
• 1 cup (150g) green seedless grapes, halved.
• 1/2 cup (75g) celery, finely diced.
• 1/4 cup (35g) red onion, finely diced.
• 1/4 cup (30g) toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped. This is completely optional of course, for that chicken grape salad with walnuts that brings a special crunch and flavour, which I really recommend it

For the dressing, it's:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise. Full fat or light your shout!
• 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is awesome for a healthier creamy chicken salad recipe.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey or maple syrup.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) salt, or to taste.
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.6ml) black pepper, or to taste.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

A pinch of salt and pepper is essential. Apple cider vinegar brings the zing. A touch of sweetness rounds it out. For chicken salad variations , try a dash of curry powder!

Sometimes I fancy an extra bit of lemon juice in my grape and chicken salad , especially if I'm serving this as one of my summer salad recipes.

The citrus helps freshen it up.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Honestly, you don't need much. A baking sheet (if roasting the chicken), or a big pot (for poaching). A large mixing bowl is essential.

Plus, a sharp knife and a cutting board. Most people already have that in their kitchens! A whisk will do the trick too.

If you don't have a baking sheet, an oven safe pan works fine. If you don’t have a whisk, two forks intertwined will do the work.

This easy chicken salad recipe doesn’t demand fancy equipment. I use my grandma's trusty wooden spoon for mixing. It feels homelier, you know?

Honestly, if you're looking for lunch recipes with chicken that are great picnic salad ideas or even make-ahead salad recipes, this is the one for you.

Right then, let's whip up a smashing Chicken and Grape Salad recipe ! This is one of those recipes that's perfect for a light lunch, a summer salad recipes , or even a posh tea party.

We'll keep it simple, delicious, and utterly moreish.

The Quintessential Chicken and Grape Salad: A Right Proper Treat

This classic chicken and grape salad is a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. Think creamy chicken salad recipe goodness.

Tender chicken is tossed with juicy grapes and crisp celery, all bound together in a light and tangy dressing. It's simply irresistible! Honestly, it's a posh update on the basic chicken salad sandwich.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place, Darling!

Essential mise en place is key here. Chop your grapes, celery, and red onion before you even think about the chicken.

Trust me, it's a game changer. For safety, always use a clean cutting board for your chicken to avoid any nasty bugs.

Time Saving Tips

Got leftover roast chicken? Bosh! Use it. Seriously, that's my top easy chicken salad recipe tip. Also, prepping the dressing ahead of time saves a ton of faff.

It is a make-ahead salad recipes so you can do it.

The Chicken Dance: step-by-step

1. Cook the Chicken: Roast it at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , or poach it for 15- 20 minutes . Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) internal temperature.
2. Cool and Shred: Let the chicken cool completely. Then, shred or dice it.
3. Prep the Salad: Halve the grapes, dice the celery and red onion. Toast your walnuts for extra crunch but watch them carefully!
4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together mayo, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Everything: Toss chicken, grapes, celery, red onion, and nuts with the dressing.
6. Chill Out: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes . Crucial for melding the flavours.
7. Serve It Up: Enjoy on its own, in a sandwich, or on crackers.

Pro Tips for a Stellar Chicken Salad with Grapes

Don't overdress the salad! Start with less dressing. You can always add more. Also, toasting the nuts is a must for that extra bit of flavour and texture. It's a total game changer.

Common Mishaps to Dodge

Overcooking the chicken is a no-no. Nobody wants dry chicken salad. And definitely don't skip the chilling time. That's when the magic happens! This can be part of your picnic salad ideas .

Chicken Salad Variations Galore

Feeling adventurous? Add curry powder for a curry chicken and grape salad . Or try apple instead of grapes for a chicken and apple salad .

This can be a chicken grape salad with walnuts , yummy!. There are lots of lunch recipes with chicken but This Chicken and Grape Salad is sure to become a family favourite.

It is a right proper treat!

Recipe Notes: Your Chicken and Grape Salad, Your Way!

So, you're ready to whip up this sensational chicken and grape salad recipe ? Brilliant! Honestly, this is one of those easy chicken salad recipes that's almost foolproof.

But hey, every chef needs a few insider tips, right?

Serving like a Pro

This chicken and grape salad with walnuts is versatile. For an elegant touch, try plating individual servings on crisp lettuce cups.

For a picnic or casual lunch, slather it between slices of toasted sourdough. Fancy a drink? A crisp Pinot Grigio complements the sweetness.

Feeling adventurous? Iced tea is a classic choice, too. These are perfect picnic salad ideas .

Storing Secrets

Got leftovers? (If you do, you're stronger than me!) Pop it in an airtight container and it'll happily keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

No freezing this one, though. The mayo will get a bit weird. When you're ready to tuck in again, just give it a little stir.

This is a perfect make-ahead salad recipes option.

Chicken Salad Remix

Fancy mixing things up? For a lighter take, swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt. Boom! Instant chicken salad variations .

If you're cutting out the carbs (we've all been there, haven't we?), serve it over a bed of spinach instead of in a sandwich.

And for a festive twist, try adding some chopped cranberries for a summer salad recipes with a bit of a festive spin.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's keep it real. This creamy chicken salad recipe is pretty good for you. You get lean protein from the chicken, antioxidants from the grapes, and some healthy fats from the nuts (if you're using them).

Plus, it's a great source of energy for a busy day. Of course, it will not be the Grail , but a delicious entry to your lunch recipes with chicken cookbook

So there you have it! All the tips and tricks you need to create your own awesome chicken salad with grapes .

Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and remember...cooking should be about making something that makes you happy! Get in the kitchen and give this grape and chicken salad a whirl.