The Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, crisp fruits, and crunchy nuts, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. This salad offers a refreshing and satisfying meal option, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a timeless favorite among salad enthusiasts.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup red seedless grapes, quartered
• ½ cup green seedless grapes, quartered
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 red apple, diced into small cubes
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

1. In a 6 or 8-quart slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, diced red onion, diced celery, and chicken broth.
2. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and allow it to cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer the cooled chicken to a large bowl, adding some of the cooked vegetables from the slow cooker.
5. In the bowl, add mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, red and green grapes, chopped walnuts or pecans, diced apple, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
6. Stir all ingredients until well combined.
7. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the salad chilled, either on bread, with crackers, or atop fresh greens.

Nutritional Facts

• Calories: 591 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 137 mg
• Sodium: 646 mg
• Potassium: 944 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Vitamin A: 194 IU
• Vitamin C: 9 mg
• Calcium: 57 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

The History of Waldorf Salad

The origins of the Waldorf salad are rooted in American culinary history. It was created in the late 19th century by the maître d’hôtel at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Oscar Tschirky. The original version of the salad was much simpler, consisting of just apples, celery, and mayonnaise. Over time, it has been adapted in many ways, with variations adding ingredients such as grapes, walnuts, and even chicken, as seen in the Waldorf Chicken Salad. The version with chicken has become particularly popular as it provides a heartier and more filling option without losing the light, crisp quality of the salad.

The Key Ingredients: What Makes This Salad Special

One of the main reasons the Waldorf Chicken Salad remains such a beloved dish is the quality of its ingredients. Each component of this salad contributes to its unique flavor and texture profile.

• Chicken: The tender chicken provides the protein base of the salad, making it more filling and nutritious. The chicken is often cooked and shredded, allowing it to absorb some of the dressing and spices. It also complements the sweetness of the fruits and the crunchiness of the vegetables.

• Fruits: Grapes and apples are the quintessential fruits in a Waldorf Chicken Salad. The grapes add a natural sweetness and juiciness that perfectly balance the other ingredients. Apples, typically a tart variety like Granny Smith, add crunch and a bit of acidity, which brightens up the dish.

• Celery: Celery is an essential ingredient for adding a refreshing crunch to the salad. Its mild flavor doesn’t overpower the other ingredients but provides texture and a slight earthiness.

• Nuts: Walnuts or pecans bring a nutty richness to the dish. These crunchy elements are essential for textural contrast and add a depth of flavor that rounds out the salad.

• Dressing: The dressing is where all the ingredients come together. Typically made with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a healthier alternative), the creamy dressing binds the salad together. It also acts as the base for all the flavors to mingle, providing richness without making the salad feel too heavy.

The Health Benefits of Waldorf Chicken Salad

While the Waldorf Chicken Salad is undoubtedly delicious, it is also a nutritious choice. The ingredients provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

• Chicken: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains B vitamins, particularly niacin (B3) and vitamin B6, which are important for energy production and brain health. Additionally, chicken is rich in phosphorus and selenium, which are crucial for bone health and immune function.

• Fruits: Both grapes and apples are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Apples are high in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and improve skin health. Grapes, particularly red and purple varieties, contain flavonoids, which are antioxidants that support heart health. The fiber from both fruits helps support digestive health.

• Celery: Celery is low in calories but high in water content, making it a hydrating vegetable that adds volume to the salad without adding extra calories. It’s also a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting.

• Nuts: Walnuts and pecans are rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to support brain and heart health. These nuts also provide fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium.

How to Customize Your Waldorf Chicken Salad

One of the reasons the Waldorf Chicken Salad has remained popular for so many years is its versatility. The base recipe can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for making the salad your own:

• Substitute the Dressing: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also add a bit of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice to give the dressing some extra tang. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan mayo or a tahini-based dressing.

• Add More Veggies: While celery and apples are the traditional vegetables used, you can add other crunchy veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or cucumber for additional freshness and flavor.

• Make it Gluten-Free: The Waldorf Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, but if you serve it with bread or crackers, make sure to choose gluten-free options. Alternatively, you can enjoy the salad as is, or serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

• Switch the Nuts: If you prefer a different type of nut, feel free to swap walnuts or pecans for almonds, cashews, or even pistachios. Each variety brings its own unique flavor and texture to the salad.

• Add Dried Fruit: For a slightly different take on the dish, you can include dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots. These dried fruits will add a chewy texture and a sweet contrast to the crunchy nuts and fresh fruits.

When to Serve Waldorf Chicken Salad

This versatile dish is perfect for various occasions, making it a great addition to your recipe rotation. Here are a few occasions when Waldorf Chicken Salad can shine:

• Lunch: Whether served on a sandwich, in a wrap, or on its own, Waldorf Chicken Salad makes a satisfying and light lunch. It’s easy to prepare in advance and can be enjoyed for a couple of days, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.

• Picnics: The salad is a fantastic option for picnics or outdoor gatherings. It’s portable, doesn’t require heating, and can be served cold, making it the ideal dish for warmer weather.

• Potlucks and Parties: If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck or party, the Waldorf Chicken Salad fits the bill. Its unique flavors and textures will stand out among other dishes, and it can be made in large quantities.

• Light Dinner: If you’re craving something light yet satisfying for dinner, this salad is a great option. It’s refreshing and filling, without leaving you feeling overly stuffed.

Conclusion

The Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad is a versatile, healthy, and delicious dish that is perfect for a wide variety of occasions. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, at a picnic, or as a light dinner, this salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Its rich history, coupled with its ability to be customized, ensures that it will remain a favorite for years to come.