Dinner

Creamy Chicken Salad with Grapes and Almonds Recipe

ByBen Miller January 2, 2026January 2, 2026

Introduction

This classic chicken salad is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy flavors. With tender chicken, fresh celery, sweet grapes, and a hint of dill, it’s a refreshing and satisfying dish ideal for sandwiches, salads, or as a standalone meal.

A white bowl filled with a creamy salad made of small pieces of white chicken mixed with light green celery chunks, dark red grape halves, and bright green chopped scallions, all coated in a white creamy dressing. Scattered on top are thin, light brown sliced almonds, adding texture and color contrast. A large silver spoon is placed inside the bowl, ready to serve. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth partially visible in the background and a small green bowl of sliced almonds nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ¾ lbs. or 4 cups cooked)
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 ribs celery (finely diced)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
¾ cup red grapes (quartered)
3 green onions (diced)
1/3 cup sliced almonds
¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic salt
½ teaspoon dried dill weed
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon pepper
¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in a pot and cover with cool water. Bring the water gradually to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add up to 2 tablespoons kosher salt and simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes, then dice finely.
Step 2: Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before mixing to prevent the mayonnaise from separating. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic salt, dried dill, paprika, pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Step 3: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 4: Gently fold in the grapes, green onions, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries if using. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Transfer to a clean serving bowl if desired and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a dollop of Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise.
Swap sliced almonds for toasted walnuts or pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
If you prefer a spicier salad, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon to enhance freshness and aroma.

Storage

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. For best texture, add grapes and nuts just before serving or shortly before storing to keep them crisp. Reheat is not recommended as this salad is best served cold.