Discover a simple Chicken Almond Salad Recipe with tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and fresh veggies. Perfect for a healthy meal, this easy dish is packed with flavor and ready in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Step-by-Step)
This Creamy Chicken Almond Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that balance flavor, crunch, and creaminess.
The mix of tender chicken, crisp celery, and toasted almonds pairs perfectly with a tangy lemon Dijon dressing. Optional add-ins like grapes or apples add a touch of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 2 cups, diced or shredded (rotisserie, poached, or leftover) |
| Celery | 1 cup, chopped |
| Green or Red Onion | ½ small onion or 2 stalks, finely sliced |
| Grapes (optional) | 1 cup, halved |
| Toasted Almonds | ½ cup, sliced or slivered |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup |
| Greek Yogurt | ¼ cup (or use 50/50 with mayo) |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon Juice & Zest | 1 tablespoon juice + light zest |
| Honey or Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 teaspoon, optional |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Chicken Almond Salad Recipe
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare Chicken | Dice or shred 2 cups of cooked chicken (rotisserie, poached, or leftover). |
| 2. Chop Veggies & Fruit | Slice celery, onion, and grapes (if using). |
| 3. Mix Dressing | Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. |
| 4. Combine Ingredients | Add chicken, celery, onion, and grapes to a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently. |
| 5. Add Almonds | Fold in toasted almonds just before serving to keep crunch. |
| 6. Chill & Serve | Refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors, then serve in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or over greens. |
Best Chicken to Use – Rotisserie, Poached, or Leftovers
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Almond Salad is its flexibility. Rotisserie chicken offers convenience and flavor, poached chicken stays tender and absorbs dressing beautifully, and leftover roasted or grilled chicken reduces waste while adding depth.
Whichever option you choose, ensure bite-sized pieces for even mixing with almonds, celery, and creamy lemon Dijon dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Almond Salad
This Creamy Chicken Almond Salad blends tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing for a light yet filling meal
.It’s protein-packed, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. Serve it on bread, in wraps, or over greens for a versatile dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Variations & Add-Ins
- This chicken almond salad recipe is easy to customize with your favorite flavors.
- For a fruity twist, add halved red grapes, apple chunks, or dried cranberries.
- If you prefer extra crunch, try walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
- Boost freshness with chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro.
- For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise for more Greek yogurt.
- Spice lovers can add a pinch of cayenne or paprika.
- Serve with quinoa or pasta for a hearty meal.
- These simple add-ins keep the salad exciting and versatile.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
To make the perfect chicken almond salad recipe, always toast almonds for crunch and flavor. Use cooled chicken to keep the salad fresh. Avoid over-mixing, which can break down the nuts and make the salad soggy.
Dry celery and grapes before adding. Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling. Store almonds separately if prepping ahead. Following these tips ensures every bite is creamy, crunchy, and full of balanced flavors.
Toasting Almonds for Maximum Crunch
To bring out the nutty flavor in this chicken almond salad recipe, toast sliced or slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Let them cool before adding to the salad to keep every bite crunchy and flavorful.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This chicken almond salad recipe can be made ahead for convenience. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Keep toasted almonds separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
Avoid freezing, as the dressing may separate. When ready to serve, stir gently and enjoy on sandwiches, wraps, or over greens for a fresh, flavorful meal anytime.
Nutrition Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Vitamin A | 6% DV |
FAQ
1. Can I make this chicken almond salad recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Keep toasted almonds separate until serving to maintain crunch.
2. What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is quick and flavorful, while poached or leftover roasted chicken works well too.
3. Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Substitute with Greek yogurt or use a half-and-half mix for a lighter, tangy dressing.
4. How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?
Ensure chicken, grapes, and celery are dry. Mix in dressing just before serving or store separately.
5. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended; the dressing may separate and almonds lose their crunch.
6. What are the best ways to serve it?
Enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or over a bed of greens for a fresh, satisfying meal.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
