Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts: A Fresh, Crunchy Classic You’ll Love

A Personal Story: How This Recipe Found Me

Chicken salad with apples and walnuts isn’t just food—it’s a memory I carry with me every time I make it. I was craving something comforting but light, something quick yet special.

Recipe Guide

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I stood in my kitchen, fridge door open, and pulled out cooked chicken, a lonely apple, and a half-bag of walnuts.

With some celery and a scoop of Greek yogurt, the first forkful surprised me—it was creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory all at once.

Sweet apples and savory chicken? Yes, please! Discover our core recipe for Chicken Salad with Apples – a fresh, flavorful base you can build your favorite twists on.

That day, this salad wasn’t just lunch. It was therapy. It turned into a dish I now make when I need a win. And today, I’m sharing that win with you.

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The Perfect Bite: Texture and Flavor in Harmony

This salad isn’t your basic chicken salad. The tart-sweetness of apples, the toasty crunch of walnuts, and the juicy tenderness of chicken come together with the creamy tang of Greek yogurt.

The celery and red onion add depth and freshness, while dates bring in chewy sweetness. It’s layered, bright, and satisfying—every bite offers contrast.

Why It’s a Nutrient-Packed Favorite

Let’s talk health. This chicken salad with apples and walnuts brings flavor and nourishment together in one bowl:

• Apples offer fiber and natural sugar—good for digestion and energy.
• Walnuts are loaded with heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
• Chicken brings lean protein for muscle support and fullness.
• Greek Yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein, minus the mayo.

You’re not just feeding your tastebuds—you’re fueling your body. It’s light yet filling, perfect for lunch, a post-workout meal, or even a weekend brunch.

Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts

This chicken salad with apples and walnuts is your next must-make recipe: crisp apples, toasted walnuts, juicy shredded chicken, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing—all ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or healthy potlucks, this salad is bursting with texture, flavor, and clean ingredients. It’s quick, it’s wholesome, and it’s endlessly customizable. Save it, pin it, and try it today—your lunch game just leveled up.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

toast walnuts 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Lunch, main dish, Salad

Cuisine American, Healthy

Servings 3

Calories 325 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 1 apple chopped
• ½ cup toasted walnuts
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• ¼ red onion diced
• 2 –3 Medjool dates chopped
• ½ tsp chopped rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Toast walnuts in skillet and set aside.
• Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
• Add chicken and mix well.
• Fold in apple, celery, onion, dates, and walnuts.
• Chill 15–30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	325 kcal
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	18g
Sugar	10g
Fiber	3g
Protein	24g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	180mg
Potassium	400mg

 

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands or specific substitutions.

Keyword apple walnut chicken salad, chicken salad with apples and walnuts, healthy chicken salad

Creative Ways to Serve It

This isn’t a one-trick dish. You can enjoy this chicken salad with apples and walnuts in a variety of ways:

• Piled onto sourdough toast or croissants
• Scooped into romaine lettuce boats
• Tossed over baby spinach or spring mix
• Served alongside a bowl of soup for a complete meal

Key Ingredients That Make Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts Unforgettable

Shredded Chicken: The Heart of the Dish

Your chicken is your base. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken for convenience or freshly cooked breasts for lean protein, it needs to be moist and easy to shred.

• Tip: Poach chicken breasts for juicy, tender results.
• Substitution: Leftover turkey or even tofu works for a twist.

Apples: Sweet Crunch That Brightens Every Bite

You want apples that hold their shape and bring a crisp texture.

• Best Choices: Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala.
• Why it Works: The tart sweetness balances savory chicken and creamy yogurt.
• Pro Tip: Dice apples just before mixing to prevent browning.

Walnuts: Earthy, Crunchy & Protein-Rich

Toasted walnuts bring nutty warmth and crunch.

• Toast Beforehand: A quick pan-toast enhances flavor.
• Why Walnuts: Rich in omega-3s, they boost the nutrition game.
• Alternatives: Pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds.

Celery: Adds Freshness and Bite

Celery gives that essential crunch and light, grassy flavor.

• Slice Thin: So it blends evenly and doesn’t overpower.
• Bonus: High in fiber and low in calories.

Red Onion: A Sharp Kick to Wake Up the Flavor

Raw red onion slices add a bold contrast to the creamy texture.

• Soak in Water First: Reduces harshness while keeping the bite.
• Want it Milder? Swap for green onions or shallots.

Medjool Dates: Sweet, Chewy, and Unexpected

This is the secret weapon. A few chopped dates go a long way.

• Why Include Them: They add chewiness and natural sweetness.
• No Dates? Use raisins, dried cranberries, or figs.

Greek Yogurt: Creaminess Without the Guilt

Forget mayo. Full-fat plain Greek yogurt offers creaminess, protein, and probiotics.

• Creamy but Light: Keeps the salad fresh, not greasy.
• Want More Flavor? Add a spoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of maple syrup.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Bright, Tangy Finish

This is what ties the dressing together.

• Why It’s Essential: Balances the fat and cuts through sweetness.
• Always Use Fresh: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same zing.

Fresh Rosemary: Fragrant and Flavorful

Herbs make the difference between basic and brilliant.

• Use Sparingly: It’s strong—chop it fine and use about ½ tsp.
• Swap Ideas: Fresh thyme or parsley also work well.

Salt and Pepper: Your Flavor Enhancers

Simple but critical. Season to taste after mixing everything.

• Balance Tip: Add salt gradually—especially if using salted nuts or rotisserie chicken.

How to Make Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toast the Walnuts to Deepen Flavor

A great chicken salad with apples and walnuts needs perfectly toasted nuts. This step is quick but makes a huge difference.

• Warm a dry skillet over medium-low heat.
• Toss in your walnuts and stir constantly for 3–6 minutes until they’re golden and aromatic.
• Remove from the pan immediately to cool—this keeps them crunchy.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

This isn’t your average dressing. It’s light, fresh, and elevates the entire apple walnut chicken salad.

• In a large bowl, mix:
  • ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ½ teaspoon chopped rosemary
  • A pinch of salt and black pepper
• Stir until smooth. This creamy base will coat every piece of your chicken salad with apples and walnuts with flavor.

Step 3: Dice the Fresh Add-Ins

You can’t make a chicken salad with apples and walnuts without fresh, crunchy mix-ins.

• Chop 1 crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) into small cubes.
• Slice 2 stalks of celery for crunch.
• Finely dice ¼ red onion for boldness.
• Add chopped Medjool dates for chewy sweetness that complements the apple and walnut combo.

Step 4: Add the Shredded Chicken

Now let’s build the base.

• Add 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken to the bowl.
• Lightly mix it into the yogurt dressing until each piece is coated.
• This is the foundation of your chicken salad with apples and walnuts, so make sure the chicken is moist and evenly dressed.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Bring the dish to life:

• Fold in the diced apples, celery, red onion, walnuts, and dates.
• Use a spatula to gently stir everything together until well mixed.
• Taste and tweak seasoning if needed—maybe a splash more lemon or a pinch of salt.

This final mixture is now a beautifully balanced, sweet and savory chicken salad with apples and walnuts. It’s ready to serve or chill.

Don’t miss our cheesy garlic chicken wraps for a delicious pairing idea when you want something warm on the side.

Step 6: Chill for Flavor (Optional but Worth It)

Let your finished chicken salad with apples and walnuts chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes before serving. It gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to set.

Delicious Ways to Serve Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts

Sandwich It Between Bread or a Croissant

One of the most popular ways to enjoy chicken salad with apples and walnuts is in a sandwich.

• Choose buttery croissants, whole grain bread, or brioche rolls.
• Add a few lettuce leaves or slices of avocado for extra flavor and freshness.
• Want crunch? Toast the bread for a golden finish.

This method turns your apple walnut chicken salad into a quick and satisfying lunch.

Wrap It in Lettuce for a Low-Carb Option

Looking for something lighter? Wrap your chicken salad with apples and walnuts in crisp lettuce leaves.

• Best choices: Romaine, Butter lettuce, or Iceberg.
• Add shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers for added crunch.
• This is a great gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly choice.

Serve It on a Bed of Greens for a Power Bowl

Turn your salad into a full meal by building a nutritious bowl.

• Use spring mix, spinach, or arugula as the base.
• Scoop your apple walnut chicken salad right in the center.
• Add toppings like sliced radishes, pumpkin seeds, or feta cheese.

Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a balsamic glaze if desired.

Scoop with Crackers for a Fun Snack or Appetizer

Hosting guests or need a finger food idea?

• Serve chicken salad with apples and walnuts alongside hearty crackers or toasted pita chips.
• It works great for holiday gatherings, picnics, or game day.

Add a small spoon for guests to scoop their own—no mess, just flavor.

Stuff It in an Avocado or Bell Pepper

Feeling creative? Fill half an avocado or hollowed-out bell pepper with your chicken salad with apples and walnuts.

• The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the crunchy salad.
• Bell peppers add color and a sweet-crisp bite.

This makes a gorgeous presentation for brunch or dinner parties.

Pack It for Meal Prep or a Make-Ahead Lunch

This recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it a go-to for meal prep.

• Store individual portions of chicken salad with apples and walnuts in airtight containers.
• It stays fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavor gets even better over time.
• Just pack crackers, greens, or wraps on the side and you’re good to go.

Easy Variations of Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts for Every Diet

Make It Dairy-Free Without Losing Creaminess

If you’re lactose intolerant or dairy-free, you can still enjoy this flavorful chicken salad with apples and walnuts.

• Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt (almond, coconut, or cashew-based work well).
• Use vegan sour cream or even a bit of mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to maintain that tang.

The flavor stays bright, and you won’t miss the dairy at all.

Create a Nut-Free Version for Allergies

Need to avoid nuts? You can still get crunch without the walnuts.

• Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds, toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), or crushed pretzels.
• For texture, you can also use roasted chickpeas.

This turns your apple walnut chicken salad into a safe and satisfying option for nut-free homes.

Make It Vegetarian (and Still Filling!)

Yes, it’s possible—and delicious—to enjoy a vegetarian chicken salad with apples and walnuts.

• Swap the chicken with chickpeas, tofu cubes, or cooked lentils.
• You can also try grilled tempeh or plant-based chicken.

Make sure your plant protein is seasoned well to keep the dish flavorful.

Go Vegan with Simple Swaps

To go fully vegan:

• Use plant-based yogurt in place of Greek yogurt.
• Choose vegan chicken alternatives like jackfruit or seitan.
• Skip the honey (if used) and double down on dates or maple syrup for sweetness.

Now you’ve got a vegan chicken salad with apples and walnuts that still hits every note.

Add Extra Protein for Fitness Goals

If you’re building a high-protein lunch or post-workout meal, this salad can work for you.

• Add extra shredded chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or quinoa.
• Consider mixing in chia seeds or hemp hearts—they blend right in and offer a nutrition boost.

Give It a Sweet or Spicy Twist

Customize the flavor to match your cravings:

• Sweet Twist: Add dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or a drizzle of honey.
• Spicy Twist: Mix in chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

These small changes give your chicken salad with apples and walnuts bold personality without changing its core identity.

Discover more salad customizations in our steak chimichurri dense bean salad that’s packed with zest and variation.

How to Store and Meal Prep Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts

Best Containers for Storing Freshness

When storing your chicken salad with apples and walnuts, the right container can make all the difference.

• Use airtight glass containers to keep moisture out and flavors locked in.
• Avoid cheap plastic containers that can absorb odors and cause quicker spoilage.
• For on-the-go meals, choose sectioned containers to keep greens, wraps, or crackers separate.

How Long It Lasts in the Fridge

Properly stored, your chicken salad with apples and walnuts can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

• Always refrigerate within 1 hour of making it, especially if left out.
• If using leftover chicken, base the storage time on when the chicken was first cooked.
• Keep the salad tightly sealed to avoid absorbing fridge odors.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts?

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe.

• The Greek yogurt dressing tends to separate when thawed.
• Apples and celery may become watery and lose texture.
• Walnuts can also soften and lose their crunch.

Instead of freezing, just prep the components ahead of time:

• Shred the chicken
• Toast the walnuts
• Chop the celery and onion
• Then assemble fresh when needed

Meal Prep Tips for Busy Weeks

If you’re planning lunches or dinners in advance, chicken salad with apples and walnuts is a solid choice. Here’s how to meal prep it efficiently:

• Pre-portion the salad into single-serve containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
• Keep lettuce, bread, or wraps separate to avoid sogginess.
• Store apple slices with a touch of lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Make a double batch and use it for sandwiches one day and lettuce wraps the next.

When It’s Time to Toss

To avoid food waste and ensure safety, watch for these spoilage signs:

• Sour smell or off taste
• Separation of yogurt dressing
• Watery texture or mushy apples
• Mold or dark spots in any ingredient

When in doubt, throw it out.

Questions About Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts

Why Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts Is a Go-To Recipe

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual lunch, or just craving something sweet, savory, and satisfying—chicken salad with apples and walnuts always delivers.

From its crunchy apples and toasted walnuts to the tender chicken and creamy Greek yogurt dressing, this salad has it all: nutrition, flavor, and versatility. You can keep it classic or mix it up with grapes, spices, or even plant-based swaps.

Plus, it’s a perfect dish for almost any diet—low-carb, gluten-free, high-protein, and easily adaptable for dairy-free or vegetarian eaters. And the best part? You can prep it ahead, enjoy it cold, and serve it in a dozen creative ways.

Thanks for joining me on this journey. From my kitchen to yours—here’s to recipes that nourish both body and soul.