7 Irresistible Reasons to Love This Apple Chicken Salad Recipe with Walnuts

Apple chicken salad recipe with walnuts is the perfect marriage of savory and sweet, creamy and crunchy. It offers more than just a healthy lunch or quick dinner option—it brings warmth, comfort, and nourishment in every bite. If you’ve ever searched for a satisfying meal that checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and simplicity, this one is for you.

With tender chunks of chicken, fresh apple slices, and toasty walnuts all bound together by a light, tangy dressing, this salad makes you feel full, energized, and a little nostalgic. It’s like a fresh start on a plate, and one you can feel good about making over and over again.

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Why This Apple Chicken Salad with Walnuts Is a Must-Try

If you’re wondering what makes this salad so popular, it all comes down to balance. The ingredients complement each other naturally:

• Protein-packed: Chicken provides long-lasting energy.
• Fiber-rich: Apples and celery aid digestion and add crunch.
• Healthy fats: Walnuts support heart health and provide satiety.
• Quick and easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to make.
• Meal prep ready: Keeps well in the fridge for several days.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. That makes this recipe ideal for lunches, light dinners, or a nutritious post-workout meal.

Ingredient List for Apple Chicken Salad Recipe with Walnuts

You can easily tailor this salad to your preferences, but the foundation stays the same. Here’s what you need:

Main Ingredients	Optional Substitutes
Cooked chicken breast	Rotisserie or grilled chicken
Crisp apples (Fuji, Gala)	Granny Smith for more tartness
Walnuts	Pecans or sliced almonds
Celery	Diced cucumber or fennel
Greek yogurt or mayonnaise	Avocado mayo or light sour cream
Dijon mustard	Yellow or honey mustard
Lemon juice	Apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper	Onion powder or garlic powder

• Cooked Chicken: Use freshly grilled or leftover chicken. The mild meat absorbs flavors beautifully and provides your protein base.
• Apples: Choose ones that are firm and sweet for a pleasant crunch. Their natural sugars complement the savory elements.
• Walnuts: These give you that buttery crunch that ties everything together. Toasting them briefly enhances their depth.
• Celery: It adds structure and a refreshing bite. A necessary counterbalance to the creaminess.
• Greek Yogurt or Mayo: This forms the dressing base. Yogurt adds tang while mayo adds richness.
• Dijon Mustard: A subtle zing that brightens up the salad.
• Lemon Juice: Cuts through the creamy base and keeps the apples from browning.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper bring everything into harmony.

How to Make Apple Chicken Salad with Walnuts (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken and Chop Produce

Begin by chopping your cooked chicken into small, bite-sized cubes. Next, dice the apples, keeping the skins on for both color and fiber. Slice your celery thin and give your walnuts a quick toast in a dry pan over medium heat—just until they’re fragrant.

Step 2 – Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayo), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk until the texture is smooth and everything is well incorporated. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, add a drizzle of honey.

Step 3 – Combine and Chill

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, chopped apples, celery, and walnuts. Pour in the dressing and gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to preserve texture. Once done, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad set.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Chicken Salad Recipe with Walnuts

• Use cold or room-temperature chicken to prevent wilting the dressing.
• Toast your walnuts for 2–3 minutes for a richer, more developed flavor.
• Mix the salad just before serving to retain the apples’ crispness.
• Add-ins: Try dried cranberries, sliced grapes, or green onions for variety.
• Dressing variations: You can sub in a vinaigrette or tahini for a dairy-free option.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	6g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	3g
Sodium	350mg

This estimate assumes a yogurt-based dressing and one-cup serving size.

Serving Ideas & Delicious Variations

One of the best parts of this apple chicken salad recipe with walnuts is how versatile it is:

• Serve on greens: Spoon it over mixed baby greens or arugula.
• Make a sandwich: Use hearty multigrain bread, sourdough, or even a croissant.
• Lettuce wraps: Use romaine or butter lettuce for a low-carb lunch.
• Wrap it: Fill a whole grain tortilla with salad and avocado.
• Entertain with it: Use it as a dip with crackers or cucumber rounds for an appetizer.

FAQ – Apple Chicken Salad Recipe with Walnuts

With a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, this apple chicken salad recipe with walnuts offers more than a tasty bite—it delivers a sense of comfort. It’s satisfying, fresh, and flexible enough for every season. Whether you’re packing lunches for the week, preparing a picnic basket, or just need something wholesome and flavorful, this is a salad that delivers every time.

So next time you’re craving something simple, nourishing, and full of crunch and zest, turn to this recipe. You’ll come back to it again and again.

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