Chicken (Or Turkey) Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad with tender cooked chicken or turkey, sweet pineapple, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy nuts, dressed in creamy mayonnaise—perfect for light, satisfying meals or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked and cubed chicken or turkey with pineapple chunks, chopped apple, halved grapes, and chopped nuts in a large bowl.
- Toss lightly with mayonnaise until evenly coated.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. You can also swap the nuts for seeds if allergies are a concern. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add a refreshing twist. If you're making this ahead of time, add the grapes just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad as a light lunch or a refreshing dinner side. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside Chicken Broccoli Strata(One Dish Meal) or as a filling for lettuce wraps.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid adding the mayonnaise until you're ready to serve. If you need to reheat the chicken or turkey, do so in the microwave until warmed through, but serve the salad cold for best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken (Or Turkey) Fruit Salad contains roughly 953 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value) and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned fruit like peaches or mandarin oranges, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh fruits provide a crunchier texture, but canned fruit can add sweetness and convenience.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and chop the fruits and nuts a day ahead. Combine everything except the mayonnaise and refrigerate. Just before serving, mix in the mayonnaise for optimal freshness.
What types of nuts work best in this salad?
Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds are great options for adding crunch and flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, consider using sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).