Chicken Waldorf Salad: A Classic Recipe with a Modern Twist

Bright, crunchy, and full of fresh flavors, Chicken Waldorf Salad is a timeless dish that has delighted taste buds for over a century. Originally created at New York’s Waldorf Hotel in the late 1800s, this salad has stood the test of time because of its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Juicy, tender chicken pairs beautifully with crisp apples, juicy grapes, and toasted walnuts, all brought together by a light, creamy dressing.

Every bite of this salad is a symphony of contrasts: the savory richness of chicken, the sweet freshness of fruit, the satisfying crunch of nuts, and the silky touch of dressing. It’s ideal for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a colorful side dish for gatherings and parties. With a few simple tweaks, it can be transformed into a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto-friendly meal while remaining flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a clear list of ingredients for the classic Chicken Waldorf Salad along with approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Cooked chicken breast (diced)	2 cups (300 g)	330 kcal
Red apples (cored and diced)	1 cup	65 kcal
Green grapes (halved)	1 cup	60 kcal
Celery (chopped)	½ cup	8 kcal
Walnuts (toasted and chopped)	½ cup	200 kcal
Greek yogurt or mayonnaise	½ cup	120 kcal
Lemon juice	1 tbsp	4 kcal
Honey	1 tsp	20 kcal
Salt & black pepper	To taste	2 kcal
Fresh parsley (optional, chopped)	1 tbsp	1 kcal

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Use cooked chicken breast — roasted, poached, or grilled. Dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season lightly with salt and black pepper if desired.

2: Prep the Fruits and Vegetables

1. Dice the apples and celery into small, uniform pieces.
2. Slice grapes in half for easier eating and better flavor integration.
3. Toast walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavor and crunch.

3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, apples, grapes, celery, and toasted walnuts.
2. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

5: Serve

1. Serve immediately over a bed of fresh lettuce, in a sandwich, or chilled in a bowl.
2. For best results, refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Make it lighter: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
• Low-carb option: Serve on lettuce leaves instead of bread or croutons.
• Add more crunch: Incorporate sliced almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
• Add sweetness: A handful of dried cranberries or raisins enhances the fruity notes.
• Keto-friendly: Skip honey and use a sugar-free sweetener if desired.
• Herbs and spices: Fresh tarragon, dill, or chives add an aromatic twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	270 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	16 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	180 mg
Sugar	11 g

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled over mixed greens for a refreshing salad bowl.
• Use as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or pita pockets.
• Pair with whole-grain crackers or croissants for brunch or lunch.
• Perfect as a side dish for picnics, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. To prevent apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing. Add the dressing just before serving for the freshest texture.

2. What type of chicken is best for this salad?

Cooked, skinless chicken breast works best for lean protein and tenderness. You can use grilled, poached, roasted, or rotisserie chicken depending on convenience and flavor preference.

3. Can I make this salad keto-friendly or low-carb?

Absolutely! Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, skip the honey, and serve over lettuce leaves or low-carb bread to keep it keto- or low-carb-friendly.

4. What can I substitute for walnuts?

Almonds, pecans, or cashews make excellent alternatives. Toasting them lightly in a skillet enhances their flavor and adds crunch.

5. Can I make it vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for protein, and use a vegan mayonnaise or coconut yogurt for the dressing.

Conclusion

Chicken Waldorf Salad combines simplicity, freshness, and elegance in one dish. Its crunchy fruits, tender chicken, and creamy dressing make every bite a satisfying experience. This recipe is versatile enough to cater to different diets, yet it remains timeless in taste and presentation.