Dinner

Chicken Waldorf Salad Recipe

ByRafael Mansero March 29, 2026March 29, 2026

Introduction

Chicken Waldorf Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken with crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy walnuts. This creamy, tangy salad is perfect for a light lunch or a snack served with crackers or greens.

A white bowl filled with a mixed salad that has several visible layers and textures. The base layer consists of chopped light green celery sticks and pale yellow apple slices cut into small pieces. Mixed throughout are pale pink shredded chicken pieces that look tender. Scattered on top are halved red grapes with a shiny surface, and small brown chopped nuts adding crunch. The salad is lightly coated in a creamy white dressing, with dark green herbs sprinkled over for color. The bowl is placed on a blue and white checkered cloth on a white marbled surface, and a silver spoon is partially visible inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces canned chicken, drained (or 1½ cups cooked chicken, chopped into ½-inch pieces)
1 large Granny Smith apple, chopped into ¼-inch pieces (about 1½ cups)
1 cup red grapes, halved or quartered if extra large
1 celery rib, sliced very thin (about ½ cup)
⅓ cup walnuts, chopped small
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the lemon, salt, and pepper as desired.
Step 2: Add the chicken, apple, grapes, celery, and walnuts to the bowl and stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Serve the salad over fresh salad greens, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite crackers.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad.
Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Try adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Use cooked turkey in place of chicken for a different flavor twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed chilled but avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a mixed salad, showing several layers including light green celery slices, pale pink shredded chicken, and halved red grapes scattered throughout. There are also small pieces of chopped walnuts sprinkled on top, adding a crunchy texture. The salad looks creamy with a white dressing coating the ingredients, and some light green herbs are dotted across the surface. A silver spoon with an ornate handle is placed inside the bowl, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface partially covered by a blue and white checkered cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cooked chicken instead of canned?

Yes, fresh cooked chicken works wonderfully. Chop it into small, bite-sized pieces to match the texture of canned chicken.

What can I serve with Chicken Waldorf Salad?

This salad pairs well with crisp greens, crusty bread, or your favorite crackers for a complete meal or snack.