Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare up to one day ahead and store in a sealed container in the fridge. Add grapes and pecans last minute to maintain crunch and texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids often enjoy the sweet grapes and mild mayo dressing. For younger palettes, leave out herbs and reduce pepper.

How healthy is this version?

It’s high in protein from the chicken, contains healthy fats from pecans, and vitamin C from grapes and lemon. Swapping mayo for Greek yogurt cuts calories and adds probiotics. Serve on whole grain bread for fiber-rounded nutrition.

Southern Chicken Salad with Red Grapes & Pecans

Name: Southern Chicken Salad with Red Grapes & Pecans
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (breast or thighs); 1 cup red grapes, halved; 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or tarragon (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

Description

Southern Chicken Salad with Red Grapes & Pecans blends juicy grapes, tender chicken, and toasted pecans in a creamy dressing for the perfect sweet and savory twist on a classic.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (breast or thighs)

1 cup red grapes, halved

1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon chopped parsley or tarragon (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, grapes, and pecans.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, yogurt (if using), mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour dressing over chicken mixture. Stir gently to coat evenly.

4. Fold in chopped herbs if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld, or serve immediately.

6. Serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or over mixed greens.

Notes

To keep grapes firm, add them just before serving if making ahead.

Toast pecans lightly for extra flavor and crunch.

Substitute walnuts or almonds if preferred.

Great for brunches, picnics, or light dinners.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 290
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Southern Chicken Salad, Chicken Salad Grapes, Chicken Pecan Salad, Sweet Savory Chicken Salad