If you’re looking for a dish that’s crisp, creamy, hearty, and just bursting with a symphony of flavors, this Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is about to become your next obsession. Chock full of tender chicken, crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, and a tangy dressing that pulls everything together, it’s the kind of salad that delivers comfort and excitement with every forkful. Whether you need a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a fresh twist on classic chicken salad, this is the recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Apple Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is in its simple ingredients, each one bringing its own touch of texture, taste, and color. Every ingredient plays a part, so don’t skip a thing—here’s how to make each one shine!

Cooked Chicken Breast: Opt for freshly cooked or use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience; shredded or chopped, it’s the backbone of the salad.
Crisp Apple: Go for a sweet and crunchy apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp—these hold their shape and add a burst of juiciness.
Celery: This humble veggie is essential for crunch and a subtle, clean flavor that brightens the whole bowl.
Red Onion: It brings a sharp, zippy bite; chopping it finely ensures it blends in without overpowering.
Walnuts: They add a nutty richness and irresistible crunch—toast them lightly for an extra-special touch.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base binds everything together; feel free to swap half with Greek yogurt for a fresher take.
Dijon Mustard: Just a spoonful provides depth and a touch of tang to the dressing.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the salad and keeps the apples from browning.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple, but absolutely essential for punching up all the other flavors.

How to Make Apple Walnut Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Main Ingredients

Begin by chopping or shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces—this ensures every forkful gets a good mix of everything. Dice your apple (leave the skin on for extra color and crunch!), slice the celery super fine, and mince the red onion so there’s just a gentle bite. Give your walnuts a rough chop as well, and if you have an extra minute, toast them in a dry skillet for a nutty aroma that’s next-level.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper until everything is velvety smooth. This creamy dressing is what ties all the flavors together, and that zing of lemon really makes the salad pop.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Place the chicken, apple, celery, red onion, and walnuts into a large mixing bowl. Pour the luscious dressing over the top and gently fold everything together with a spatula until the mixture is totally and evenly coated. You want every bite of this Apple Walnut Chicken Salad to sing with flavor!

Step 4: Chill to Marry Flavors

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time gives the flavors a chance to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious. Trust me, the wait is worth it—your patience will be rewarded with maximum yum.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once nicely chilled, your Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is ready to scoop onto crisp lettuce, pile high on toasted bread, or roll up in your favorite wrap. Don’t forget to add any finishing touches or garnishes you love!

How to Serve Apple Walnut Chicken Salad

Garnishes

No salad is complete without a little flourish! Sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts, a scattering of fresh parsley, or a few sliced grapes or dried cranberries over the top just before serving. These little touches not only make your Apple Walnut Chicken Salad look irresistible but also add layers of flavor and surprise.

Side Dishes

This salad plays beautifully with a range of sides. Pair it with a bowl of soup for a comforting lunch, some crispy pita chips or crackers for added crunch, or a simple green salad if you want to keep things fresh and light. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a chilled pasta salad.

Creative Ways to Present

While classic on a plate or in a bowl, Apple Walnut Chicken Salad shines in all sorts of creative presentations. Try it scooped into halved avocados, nestled in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, or served open-faced on toasted sourdough. For a fun party twist, stuff it into mini croissants or spoon into phyllo cups for the prettiest hors d’oeuvres.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Walnut Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you know you’ll have extras, consider stirring in the walnuts just before eating for maximum crunch.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this is one recipe that doesn’t love the freezer. The mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate and fresh apple loses its crispness once thawed. For the best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh or chilled from the fridge.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary! In fact, a quick stir and it’s ready to go straight from the fridge. If it has been stored a couple of days and seems a bit dry, you can stir in a spoonful of mayo or yogurt to restore that creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Apple Walnut Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and packs tons of flavor. Just shred or chop it, and you’re good to go.

What are the best apples for this salad?

Crisp, sweet-tart varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work wonders. They keep their shape and bring a juicy bite that contrasts perfectly with the creamy base.

How can I lighten up the dressing?

Substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. You’ll get a tangy, creamy dressing with more protein and less fat—no one will miss the all-mayo version!

Are there other nuts I can use besides walnuts?

Definitely! Pecans or slivered almonds are great alternatives if you want to switch things up or if walnuts aren’t your favorite. Each nut brings its own unique texture and flavor to the salad.

Can I make Apple Walnut Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, and in fact, it’s even better after a little time in the fridge. Just wait to add the apples and walnuts until right before serving if you want to maintain maximum crunch and freshness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a salad that checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and sheer eating joy, give this Apple Walnut Chicken Salad a try. It’s wholesome, quick to make, utterly delicious, and nearly impossible not to love. Let it become your new lunchtime staple—and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family!

Apple Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful and satisfying Apple Walnut Chicken Salad that combines tender chicken, crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Salad:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
1 large crisp apple, diced (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apple, celery, red onion, and walnuts.
Mix well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Adjust seasoning to taste.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This allows the flavors to meld.
Serve over lettuce, on toasted bread, or in wraps.
Enjoy!

Notes

Substitute half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Toast the walnuts for extra flavor.
Add dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness or a few grapes for a juicy bite.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American