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Fresh summer chicken salad with grapes, pecans, and herbs in a white bowl on marble countertop.

Easy Summer Chicken Salad

A quick, creamy chicken salad loaded with crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted nuts. Perfect for sandwiches, meal prep, or light summer dinners. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 stalks celery, diced small
  • ½ red onion, finely minced
  • 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
  • ⅓ cup pecans, roughly chopped (toasted recommended)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Rubber spatula or large spoon
  • Airtight container

Method
 

  1. If using rotisserie chicken, shred meat into bite-sized pieces (about 3 cups total). Let cool completely.
  2. Toast chopped nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.
  3. Dice celery into ¼-inch pieces. Halve grapes. Finely chop red onion if using.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add chicken, celery, grapes, toasted nuts, and onion to the bowl. Fold gently until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  7. Serving Suggestions: Serve on croissants, with crackers, in lettuce wraps, or on a bed of greens.