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willow tree chicken salad

Willow Tree Chicken Salad

A delicious and creamy chicken salad with apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts in a Greek yogurt and mayo dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or on a bed of greens.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Protein Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Salad Base
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
  • 1 large apple diced (Honeycrisp or Gala preferred)
  • 1/2 cup celery thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup seedless grapes halved (red grapes add nice color)
  • 1/3 cup walnuts chopped
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon honey for added sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Mixing spoon
  • Airtight container for storage

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apple, sliced celery, grape halves, and chopped walnuts.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  4. If using any optional ingredients like dried cranberries, fresh herbs, or red onion, fold them in now with a gentle hand.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes (though 1-2 hours is ideal) to allow flavors to meld before serving.
  7. Give the salad a final gentle toss before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  8. Serve chilled on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, allow the chicken salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • To make ahead, prepare up to 24 hours in advance but add nuts just before serving to maintain crunch.
  • For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of the mayonnaise.
  • Rotisserie chicken works great as a time-saving option.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.