Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans Recipe: A Symphony of Sweet and Crunchy Elegance

 Elevate your chicken salad game with a recipe that blends the succulence of tender chicken with the sweetness of grapes and the crunchiness of pecans. This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for luncheons, picnics, or a light dinner, this recipe adds a touch of elegance to the classic chicken salad.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

• Fresh lettuce leaves for serving

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

Cook the chicken breasts and shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toast the Pecans:

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for a few minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Allow the toasted pecans to cool before chopping.

Mix the Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken with halved grapes, finely chopped celery, diced red onion, and toasted pecans. This mix of ingredients creates a harmonious blend of sweet, crunchy, and savory elements.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. The dressing adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Combine and Chill:

Pour the dressing over the chicken and grape mixture, gently tossing until everything is evenly coated. Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.

Serve with Elegance:

When ready to serve, arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a platter or individual plates. Spoon the chicken salad onto the lettuce leaves for an elegant presentation.

Tips:

• Use a mix of red and green grapes for a colorful presentation.

• Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.

• Consider adding a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra layer of flavor.

This Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and savory chicken creates a dish that is as pleasing to look at as it is to eat. Ideal for brunches, gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe brings a touch of sophistication to the classic chicken salad, making it a standout favorite for any occasion.

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