Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy yet light dressing. This salad beautifully balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes, making it a refreshing yet filling meal.

With its layers of texture—from juicy chicken and crisp lettuce to toasted nuts and bursts of sweetness—it offers a delightful eating experience. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, meal prep, or a light dinner, and it feels gourmet while being incredibly easy to make at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it has everything—flavor, texture, nutrition, and versatility. The combination of crisp apples with savory chicken feels refreshing and comforting at the same time.

The toasted walnuts add richness and crunch, while the creamy dressing brings everything together beautifully.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is a must-try because it proves that salads can be exciting, satisfying, and full of personality. The balance of sweet and savory makes it appealing to almost everyone, and it’s highly customizable.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing lunch, or looking for a wholesome dinner, this dish fits perfectly.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total Time: 20–30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad / Main Course
Cuisine: American
Approx. Calories: ~520 calories per serving (varies with dressing amount)

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), diced
½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
1 cup celery, thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce
Optional: ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or extra mayo)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ½ tsp Dijon mustard for tang

Cooking Directions

Cook or shred the chicken if not already prepared.
Chop apples, celery, and nuts.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
Combine all salad ingredients and toss with dressing.
Serve fresh or chilled.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook chicken by boiling, grilling, or using leftovers.
Cut into bite-sized cubes or shred.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

Add walnuts to a dry skillet over medium heat.
Toast for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
Allow to cool, then chop.

Step 3: Chop the Produce

Dice apples (leave skin on for color and texture).
Slice celery finely.
Optional: Soak red onion slices in cold water to mellow flavor.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, mix mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine lettuce, chicken, apples, celery, walnuts, and cranberries.
Add dressing just before serving.
Toss gently to coat.

How to Serve

Serve the salad in a large bowl or individual plates. It pairs well with:

Croissants
Garlic bread
Toasted baguette slices
Crackers
Fresh fruit

For a fancier presentation, serve inside large butter lettuce cups.

Recipe Tips

Use crisp apples—soft apples become mushy.
Toss apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Chill before serving for even better flavor.
If making ahead, store components separately to maintain freshness.

Variations

Healthy Version: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
Extra Crunch: Add pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds.
Add Cheese: Goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese work beautifully.
Sweet Upgrade: Replace cranberries with chopped dates or fresh grapes.
Protein Swap: Use turkey, ham, tuna, or chickpeas for a twist.

Storage and Freezing

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Do Not Freeze: Apples and dressing separate and become watery when frozen.

If meal prepping, store salad, nuts, apples, and dressing separately.

Special Equipment Needed

Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Skillet for toasting nuts

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—it’s convenient and delicious.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use vegan mayo and omit yogurt.

Q: Should I peel the apples?
Not necessary unless preferred. Peel adds nutrients and color.

Conclusion

Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal full of flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s simple yet elegant, perfect for everyday meals yet special enough for gatherings. With customizable ingredients and a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.