Description
Craving something fresh, filling, and secretly soul-soothing? This Apple Walnut Chicken Salad is your go-to for instant flavor without the fuss. Tender chicken, juicy apples, toasted walnuts, and tart cranberries all tossed in a lemon-kissed mayo dressing—it’s cozy, crunchy magic in a bowl. Perfect for work lunches, impromptu brunches, or straight-from-the-fridge snacking. Grab a fork and fall in love with leftovers all over again.
Ingredients
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 apple, diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• ½ cup celery, diced
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard for a zesty kick
Instructions
-
Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional Dijon.
-
Build the Bowl: Gently fold in chicken, apples, celery, walnuts, and cranberries.
-
Taste & Chill: Adjust seasoning, then refrigerate 15–30 minutes for best flavor (or enjoy immediately!).
-
Serve It Up: Spoon into croissants, over greens, or into pita pockets. Top with extra walnuts for flair.
Notes
• Curry Vibes: Add 1 tsp curry powder and golden raisins.
• Vegan Swap: Use chickpeas instead of chicken and dairy-free mayo.
• Harvest Style: Toss with quinoa and kale.
• Smoky Bliss: Add crumbled bacon and pecans.
• Tropical Fun: Use pineapple + macadamia nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
Nutrition
- Calories: 335per serving
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g