Grilled Chicken Fruit Salad
A vibrant grilled chicken fruit salad combining smoky chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing, perfect for a light, flavorful meal or summer gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly coat the grill with cooking spray and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the chicken and cut into small cubes.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, celery, onion, and walnuts.
- Mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken salad and toss lightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dressing, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works well as a shortcut. Experiment with other fruits like apples or berries for a twist on flavor. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint can also enhance the freshness of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for a light lunch or picnic. Serve it on a bed of mixed greens or alongside whole-grain crackers for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad In A Tomato Boat for a colorful and nutritious meal. Consider serving with a chilled white wine or iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat grilled chicken, use the microwave but be cautious not to overcook it, as it can become dry. You can also serve the salad cold as a refreshing dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Chicken Fruit Salad contains roughly 175 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1170mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of fruit in this salad?
Absolutely! While red grapes add sweetness, you can substitute with diced apples, sliced strawberries, or even mandarin oranges. Just make sure to balance the flavors so the dressing complements the fruits well.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is great for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy. The ingredients will stay fresh for a few days, making it a convenient option for busy lunches.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, substitute the grilled chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition, making it a hearty and satisfying dish.
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).