Waldorf Chicken Salad

by

Waldorf Chicken Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines tender chicken with crisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted walnuts, all tossed in a creamy dressing. This salad is a variation of the classic Waldorf Salad, which originated at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City in the late 19th century.

The original Waldorf Salad was created by the maître d’hôtel at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Oscar Tschirky, in 1896. It consisted of only three ingredients: apples, celery, and mayonnaise. Over the years, additional ingredients such as grapes, walnuts, and chicken have been added to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.

Waldorf Chicken Salad offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, along with a variety of textures that make each bite satisfying and delicious. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy fruits and vegetables, and nutty walnuts creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both refreshing and satisfying.

This salad is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, served on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. Waldorf Chicken Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Whether served as a classic Waldorf Salad or with the addition of tender chicken, Waldorf Chicken Salad is a timeless dish that continues to delight taste buds with its fresh and flavorful ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a light and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

RECIPE

Chicken Waldorf Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
  • 1 cup apples, diced (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Chicken Waldorf Salad With Chives « Clean & Delicious

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • If not already cooked, cook the chicken until fully cooked and then dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
    • Chop the celery into small pieces.
    • Halve the grapes.
    • Dice the apples into small cubes.
    • Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Allow them to cool before chopping.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your preference by adding more honey or lemon juice as needed.
  3. Combine the Salad:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, celery, grapes, apples, and toasted walnuts.
    • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
    • Serve the Waldorf Chicken Salad chilled, either on a bed of lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling. Enjoy!

This Waldorf Chicken Salad recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of the fruit, the crunch of the vegetables, the creaminess of the dressing, and the savory chicken all coming together to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

WATCH HERE:

HEALTH BENIFITS

 

Waldorf Chicken Salad offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Here are some potential health benefits:

  1. Protein from Chicken: Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
  2. Vitamins and Minerals from Fruits and Vegetables: Waldorf Chicken Salad contains a variety of fruits and vegetables such as apples, grapes, and celery, which are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. These include vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants, which help support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.
  3. Healthy Fats from Walnuts: Walnuts are a good source of heart-healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and enhanced brain function. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in walnuts may also help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
  4. Dietary Fiber: Fruits, vegetables, and nuts in Waldorf Chicken Salad contribute dietary fiber to the dish. Fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements, and preventing constipation. It also helps lower cholesterol levels, control blood sugar levels, and support weight management by promoting feelings of fullness.
  5. Low in Added Sugar (Optional): While some versions of Waldorf Chicken Salad may include a small amount of honey or sweetened yogurt in the dressing, you can control the amount of added sugar or opt for unsweetened versions to keep the dish lower in added sugars. Minimizing added sugars can help reduce the risk of tooth decay, obesity, and other health issues associated with excessive sugar consumption.

Overall, Waldorf Chicken Salad can be a nutritious and satisfying meal option, providing a balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and any additional ingredients used in the dressing to ensure that the salad remains a healthy choice as part of a balanced diet

Waldorf Chicken Salad - Healthy Seasonal Recipes

FAQS

 

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Waldorf Chicken Salad:

  1. What is Waldorf Chicken Salad?
    • Waldorf Chicken Salad is a classic salad that combines tender chicken with crisp apples, celery, grapes, toasted walnuts, and a creamy dressing. It is a variation of the original Waldorf Salad, which was created at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City in the late 19th century.
  2. Can I use leftover chicken for Waldorf Chicken Salad?
    • Yes, leftover cooked chicken works well in Waldorf Chicken Salad. You can use roasted, grilled, or poached chicken breasts or thighs. Simply dice or shred the cooked chicken before adding it to the salad.
  3. What type of apples are best for Waldorf Chicken Salad?
    • Crisp and slightly tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji, are ideal for Waldorf Chicken Salad. Their firm texture and tangy flavor complement the other ingredients in the salad. However, you can use any variety of apple you prefer.
  4. Can I make Waldorf Chicken Salad ahead of time?
    • Yes, Waldorf Chicken Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, it’s best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Store the salad and dressing separately, and toss them together right before serving.
  5. Is Waldorf Chicken Salad gluten-free?
    • The basic ingredients of Waldorf Chicken Salad, including chicken, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s important to check the ingredients of any additional seasonings or dressings to ensure they are gluten-free.
  6. What are some variations of Waldorf Chicken Salad?
    • There are many variations of Waldorf Chicken Salad, including adding ingredients like dried cranberries, diced red onions, blue cheese crumbles, or even curry powder for a twist on the classic recipe. You can also adjust the dressing by using Greek yogurt or a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream.
  7. What can I serve with Waldorf Chicken Salad?
    • Waldorf Chicken Salad can be served on its own as a light meal or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It also pairs well with side dishes such as soup, crackers, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

These FAQs cover some common inquiries about Waldorf Chicken Salad, providing helpful information for those interested in trying or preparing this delicious and versatile dish.

FOR MORE RECIPES:

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Bruschetta Chicken

Leave a Comment