Chicken Salad with Apples – The Best Sweet and Savory Twist You Need to Try

Chicken salad with apples was never part of my go-to recipes—until a rainy afternoon when I found myself staring into the fridge, craving something comforting but fresh.

I had leftover chicken, one crisp apple, and just enough time between tasks. What happened next was pure magic.

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The first bite took me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen—sweet, tangy, creamy, crunchy. It was like discovering a secret I’d been missing all along.

And now, I can’t stop making it.

So today, I’m sharing that little moment with you—because sometimes, all it takes is one apple to turn your lunch into something unforgettable. Let’s make this memory yours, too.

This version of chicken salad pairs beautifully with grapes. Try our grape and apple variation for a naturally sweet upgrade.

Chicken Salad with Apples

This Chicken Salad with Apples recipe is a delightful blend of juicy chicken, crisp apples, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing—perfect for a refreshing lunch or light dinner. Packed with protein and natural sweetness, it’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you're meal-prepping or serving guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and elevate your salad game—it's simple, fresh, and irresistibly delicious!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Lunch, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups cooked chicken chopped
• 1 apple chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

 

• Prep the Ingredients
• Chop the cooked chicken and apple into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the red onion.
• Combine the Salad Base
• In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped chicken, apple, red onion, and dried cranberries.
• Make the Dressing
• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
• Toss and Mix
• Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
• Serve or Chill
• Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later. The flavors will deepen as it chills—great for meal prep or next-day lunches!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	3g
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	11g
Sodium	360mg
Cholesterol	60mg

 

Keyword apple chicken salad, chicken salad with apples, healthy chicken salad

Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Salad with Apples

Choosing the best apple: Granny Smith vs. Fuji vs. Honeycrisp

When it comes to making chicken salad with apples, not just any apple will do. You want one that holds its crunch, adds just the right sweetness (or tartness), and blends well with savory notes. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:

For a balanced bite, many cooks (including me!) mix two types—one tart, one sweet.

Cooked chicken options: roasted, grilled, or rotisserie

Now let’s talk chicken. You want it juicy, tender, and flavorful enough to stand up to the rest of the mix. Here are your best options:

• Roasted Chicken: Offers deep flavor and texture. Season it with garlic, pepper, or rosemary to layer in extra depth.
• Grilled Chicken: Adds a smoky char that elevates the salad’s complexity.
• Rotisserie Chicken: The easiest hack for busy days. It’s pre-seasoned, juicy, and perfect if you’re short on time.

Whichever you choose, make sure it’s chopped—not shredded. Chopped chicken holds the creamy dressing better and creates more balanced bites.

Supporting cast: red onion, cranberries, and more

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Every ingredient in this apple chicken salad plays a role:

• Red onion: Sharp, zesty flavor and color pop. Dice it finely so it doesn’t overpower.
• Dried cranberries: Bring a chewy sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
• Mayonnaise & yogurt: The creamy base—tangy, rich, and smooth.
• Dijon mustard & vinegar: These cut through the richness and brighten every bite.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for balance. Don’t skip them.

This isn’t just a salad—it’s an orchestra of flavors, and every component matters.

Don’t miss our steak dense bean salad for another protein-packed bowl with bold ingredients.

How to Make Chicken Salad with Apples

Ingredients breakdown and measurements

Making the perfect chicken salad with apples starts with simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch. The key is balance—between creamy, crunchy, and a little sweet.

The apple gives the chicken salad its signature bite and burst of natural sweetness, making it more than just your average lunch dish.

Mixing technique: achieving the right creamy texture

To create a rich, flavorful base for your chicken salad with apples, start by combining all the dry ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped chicken, juicy apple pieces, diced red onion, and dried cranberries.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is velvety and smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.

Pro tip: Coat the apples in a spoonful of dressing first to prevent browning and lock in flavor.

This creamy mixture transforms a few simple ingredients into a bright and satisfying apple chicken salad that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Serving suggestions: sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or standalone

Once your chicken salad with apples is ready, the serving options are endless:

• Sandwich Style: Stack it on toasted multigrain bread with leafy greens for a hearty lunch.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use butter or romaine lettuce for a refreshing, low-carb alternative.
• Fresh Bowl: Spoon over spring greens and top with extra apple slices or nuts for added crunch.
• Cracker Bites: It also shines as a quick appetizer—just scoop onto whole grain crackers.

Whether you meal prep or serve it right away, chicken salad with apples brings a unique twist that’s light, filling, and bursting with texture.

Best Dressings for Apple Chicken Salad

Classic creamy blend: mayo + yogurt + Dijon

The go-to dressing for chicken salad with apples blends creamy richness with a tangy kick. It’s the perfect marriage of smooth and zesty—ideal for balancing the sweetness of the apples and the savory depth of the chicken.

To make this classic creamy dressing:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Rich and smooth, forms the base.
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt: Lightens it up with a tangy, fresh flavor and fewer calories.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds sharpness and spice that cuts through the creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Brightens the dressing and ties all the flavors together.
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper: Essential for balance.

This combo creates a luscious dressing that clings beautifully to the ingredients. It brings the entire apple chicken salad together in a creamy, irresistible way.

Light vinaigrette options for a fresher flavor

If you’re craving something lighter or avoiding dairy, vinaigrettes work beautifully in chicken salad with apples. The natural sweetness from apples allows you to cut back on sugar without losing flavor.

Try this easy vinaigrette version:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk everything together and toss it gently with your salad. This version gives a fresh, light finish—perfect for summer lunches or post-workout meals.

Creative twists: honey mustard or tahini lemon

For something a bit bolder, you can jazz up your chicken salad with apples by experimenting with alternative dressings:

• Honey Mustard Dressing: Sweet, tangy, and kid-friendly. Blend 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp mayo.
• Tahini Lemon Dressing: Nutty, earthy, and vibrant. Mix 1 tbsp tahini, juice of half a lemon, a touch of garlic, and warm water to thin it out.

Both options bring a modern flair to the traditional chicken and apple salad, proving that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to flavor.

Whether you like it rich and creamy or light and citrusy, the right dressing can elevate your chicken salad with apples from good to unforgettable.

Add richness and crunch with this tasty version: Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

How long can chicken salad with apples last in the fridge?

One of the best things about chicken salad with apples is that it stores beautifully—making it ideal for meal prep, picnics, or busy weekdays.

When stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

However, because apples are involved, texture and freshness matter. For best results:

• Store the salad in a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight seal.
• Keep it on the middle shelf, where the temperature is most stable.
• Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and refresh the flavors.

If you’re adding nuts (like walnuts or pecans), consider storing them separately and mixing them in right before eating to keep them crunchy.

Freezing chicken salad: Yes or no?

You might be wondering: Can I freeze chicken salad with apples?

The short answer is no, and here’s why:

• Mayonnaise and yogurt tend to separate and become watery after thawing.
• Apples lose their crisp texture and turn mushy once frozen and defrosted.
• The overall flavor can dull, and your once-vibrant salad becomes less appealing.

If you’re prepping in bulk, consider freezing only the cooked chicken separately and making the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat. That way, you get the convenience without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Preventing sogginess and browning of apples

To keep your apple chicken salad as crisp and appetizing as when it was first made, follow these freshness-saving tricks:

• Toss apple pieces in lemon juice before adding them to the salad. The acid slows oxidation, keeping them whiter longer.
• Coat the apples in dressing first: A light layer of mayo or yogurt acts like a seal to keep air out.
• Use firmer apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith that hold their structure longer.

If you’re prepping ahead, it’s also smart to leave the apple out until the day you’re serving—just chop and mix it in last-minute for maximum crunch.

Planning ahead with chicken salad with apples is not only smart—it ensures you always have something wholesome and satisfying ready to go.

Nutritional Breakdown and Health Benefits

Calories, protein, and fiber content

Chicken salad with apples is more than just tasty—it’s a well-balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Here’s an approximate nutrition snapshot for one serving (about 1 cup):

The mix of lean chicken and apples helps maintain energy and fullness without feeling heavy. It’s a dish that works for lunch, dinner, or even a mid-afternoon protein boost.

And with yogurt in the dressing? You’re adding gut-friendly probiotics to the mix—a bonus for digestion.

Benefits of apples and lean protein

Combining chicken and apples isn’t just delicious—it’s smart eating.

• Apples bring antioxidants, dietary fiber, and natural sweetness, helping reduce inflammation and support heart health.
• Chicken provides a lean, high-quality protein source that supports muscle repair and satiety.
• Red onions add a dose of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant.
• Cranberries bring vitamin C and natural antimicrobial benefits.

Together, these ingredients create a salad that fuels your body while satisfying your taste buds.

This is why chicken salad with apples is such a go-to in my kitchen. It’s real food that feels good and tastes even better.

Don’t miss our steak dense bean salad if you’re after another protein-packed recipe that feeds both body and soul.

Healthier swaps: Greek yogurt, light mayo, or vegan versions

Want to lighten things up even more? Easy swaps can make your apple chicken salad even healthier without losing flavor:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo: More protein, less fat, and extra creaminess.
• Try mashed avocado for a dairy-free version: It adds healthy fats and a smooth texture.
• Opt for vegan chicken substitutes: If you’re plant-based, swap in chickpeas or soy-based strips for the chicken.

The key is flexibility. This salad fits almost any diet, and with a few tweaks, it becomes a power-packed, nourishing meal you can feel great about.

Popular Variations of Chicken Salad with Apples

Waldorf-style apple chicken salad

If you love a classic with a fruity crunch, the Waldorf-inspired chicken salad with apples is a must-try. This twist adds a hint of elegance with a mix of fresh and dried fruits, plus a little extra texture from nuts.

What makes it “Waldorf-style”?

• Chopped celery: Brings a light, clean crunch
• Seedless grapes or raisins: Adds natural sweetness
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Introduce richness and bite
• A light mayo-yogurt dressing: Keeps it creamy but not heavy

Serve it chilled on a bed of lettuce or scoop it into pita pockets for a fancy lunch that still feels comforting.

Curried apple chicken salad

For those craving a bolder flavor, try curried chicken salad with apples. The warm spices and sweet apples create a harmony that’s just exotic enough for adventurous eaters.

What to include:

• Curry powder: Start with 1 tsp and adjust to taste
• Golden raisins or chopped mango: Adds a tropical note
• Greek yogurt + light mayo base: Creamy with a zing
• Chopped scallions or red onion: For sharp contrast

This variation pairs beautifully with naan bread, in lettuce wraps, or even over rice for a fusion-style bowl.

Apple chicken salad with nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)

If texture is your thing, adding nuts is a game-changer. The combo of crunchy apples and roasted nuts turns a simple chicken salad with apples into something gourmet.

Top nut choices:

Toast the nuts lightly in a pan before adding them—they’ll add more flavor and stay crisp longer in the mix.

These popular variations let you customize your chicken salad with apples to match your cravings, your guests, or even just whatever you’ve got in your fridge. It’s all about making the recipe your own.

Serving Ideas & Perfect Pairings

Best breads and wraps for serving

One of the reasons I love making chicken salad with apples is that it’s endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re after a hearty lunch, a quick snack, or something elegant for brunch, the way you serve it can completely change the vibe.

Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Multigrain bread or sourdough: Toasted for extra crunch—perfect for classic sandwiches.
• Croissants: Buttery and soft, these turn your salad into a café-style treat.
• Pita pockets or flatbread: Great for handheld meals that travel well.
• Lettuce wraps: Use romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a gluten-free, low-carb option.

Each option pairs beautifully with the creamy, crunchy texture of chicken salad with apples and lets those flavors shine through in a different way.

Fresh salads and soups to serve alongside

While apple chicken salad can absolutely stand on its own, sometimes pairing it with something warm or fresh completes the meal.

Consider these pairings:

• Tomato basil soup: The rich, savory flavor balances the sweetness of apples.
• Roasted butternut squash soup: Adds warmth and a velvety texture to contrast the salad’s crunch.
• Mixed greens with vinaigrette: Keeps the plate light, colorful, and nutrient-rich.
• Quinoa or couscous side salad: Boosts fiber and adds even more texture.

Pairing this salad with a warm soup or crisp greens creates a well-rounded lunch that feels satisfying and complete.

Beverage pairings: sparkling water, iced tea, or wine

Want to turn your chicken salad with apples into a full dining experience? Try pairing it with a drink that complements the balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy.

Here’s what works well:

Whether it’s a picnic, brunch, or quiet night at home, the right drink can elevate your meal to something special.

With these serving ideas, your chicken salad with apples will never feel boring—and you’ll always have a new way to enjoy it.

Tips from the Pros: Gordon Ramsay and Other Chefs

Gordon Ramsay’s take on chicken salad

While Gordon Ramsay hasn’t released a recipe titled exactly “chicken salad with apples”, his method for building a high-quality chicken salad offers tons of insight. His key takeaways?

• Use freshly roasted chicken with crisped skin for flavor.
• Balance texture with finely sliced onions, crushed herbs, and a pop of acid—like vinegar or citrus.
• Dress lightly: Ramsay prefers a touch of mayo or crème fraîche combined with Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice.
• Finish with fresh herbs: Parsley, tarragon, or chives add a final aromatic lift.

So, how do we translate this into a better chicken salad with apples?

Easy: Use roasted or grilled chicken, add a squeeze of lemon to your dressing, and don’t forget chopped herbs to bring it all together.

Common chef tricks for maximum flavor and freshness

Here’s how other chefs and seasoned home cooks elevate their apple chicken salad game:

• Salt your apples lightly: Sounds strange? It pulls out sweetness and keeps the texture crisp.
• Chop everything the same size: Uniform cuts ensure every forkful has all the components—no boring bites!
• Mix dressing separately: This lets you adjust seasoning before coating the entire salad.
• Use cold chicken: Warm chicken can break the mayo or yogurt and make the salad watery.

Kitchen hacks to save time on prep

Time is tight—so here are a few ways to prep chicken salad with apples faster, without losing quality:

• Use rotisserie chicken: It’s flavorful, juicy, and shaves off 20 minutes of cooking time.
• Buy pre-chopped apples or use an apple slicer: Saves chopping time without compromising taste.
• Make the dressing ahead: It stores well for 3–5 days and can be used in multiple meals.

And here’s a bonus tip: Keep extra diced apples in lemon water in the fridge. It keeps them from browning and makes them ready to toss into your next batch instantly.

By following these pro tips, your chicken salad with apples won’t just be good—it’ll be restaurant-worthy.

FAQS

Why Chicken Salad with Apples Should Be Your Go-To Meal

In a world full of complicated meals and endless choices, chicken salad with apples brings it back to basics—in the best way possible. It’s simple, refreshing, and satisfying. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something that feels both comforting and exciting, whether for a weekday lunch or weekend brunch.

From creamy classics to bold curried twists, and from crunchy wraps to picnic-ready sandwiches, this salad fits into just about any meal plan, mood, or moment. Plus, the nutrition boost from apples and lean protein doesn’t hurt either.

So next time you’re staring at leftover chicken or craving something light and flavorful, remember this dish. Make it once—and like me, it just might become one of your new kitchen traditions.