If you are searching for a vibrant and delightful lunch that feels special yet comes together quickly, this Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken mingling with crisp celery, sweet grapes bursting with juiciness, and just the right hint of tarragon, all wrapped up in a buttery croissant. The nuts add a perfect toasty crunch, while the creamy dressing sings with a subtle tang and a touch of honey’s sweetness. This combination is pure comfort with a fresh twist that’s sure to brighten any midday meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but indispensable, perfectly balancing flavors, textures, and colors to create a truly standout dish. From the creamy dressing components to the fresh produce and crunchy nuts, each element adds its own character.
- Slivered almonds or walnuts (1/4 cup): Toasting these adds warmth and a satisfying crunch to the salad.
- Light mayonnaise (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Provides creaminess without heaviness, complementing the Greek yogurt beautifully.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Brings tang and a silky texture to the dressing.
- White wine vinegar (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the entire salad.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- Honey (1/2 teaspoon): A hint of natural sweetness to balance the tart and savory notes.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon + more to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Pepper (to taste): Lends a mild heat and complexity.
- Cooked chicken, shredded or diced (2 1/2 cups): The star protein that carries the flavors and adds hearty satisfaction.
- Red onion, finely chopped (2 tablespoons): Adds a sharp bite and color contrast.
- Celery, diced (1/4 cup): Brings freshness and a crispy element.
- Grapes, halved (1/2 cup): Juicy sweetness that gives the salad its signature twist.
- Tarragon, chopped (1 1/2 tablespoons): Imparts a subtle herbal note that elevates the flavor profile.
- Croissants or rolls (4-6): Buttery and flaky, these serve as the perfect vessel for the chicken salad.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Nuts
If you decide to include nuts, start by toasting them in a small skillet over medium heat. This process takes around three minutes, until they release a warm, fragrant aroma. Toasting enhances the flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish. Once toasted, set them aside to cool completely before mixing them into the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. This creamy, tangy dressing forms the heart of the Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to bring the flavors just right. This mixture adds a luscious coating for the chicken and produce, creating a perfect harmony.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Add your shredded or diced cooked chicken to the dressing, followed by the finely chopped red onion, diced celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and the now-cooled toasted nuts if using. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor and texture. Give it one final taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. This step is where all the fresh and savory ingredients come together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Split your croissants or rolls and pile the chicken salad generously inside. The buttery, flaky croissant perfectly complements the creamy and crunchy filling. Whether for a picnic, lunchbox, or an elegant snack, this assembly is quick and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.
How to Serve Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few additional chopped tarragon leaves or some extra toasted nuts on top for a charming presentation and extra boost of flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh grape halves can also brighten the look and add freshness to each bite.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this chicken salad with a crisp green salad, a handful of crunchy vegetable sticks, or even a cup of chilled gazpacho soup. These sides add freshness and balance, making the meal even more nourishing and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, transform this chicken salad into lettuce wraps or stuff it inside hollowed-out mini bell peppers to serve as appetizers. You can also serve it as an open-faced croissant sandwich topped with microgreens for a stylish midday treat perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making leftovers just as enjoyable. Keep croissants separate until ready to serve to maintain their flaky texture.
Freezing
This Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the fresh ingredients like grapes and celery, which can become watery and lose texture upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer warm croissants, toast them lightly just before assembling to keep everything crisp and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios work wonderfully. Toasting whichever nut you choose will bring out their best flavor and add that satisfying crunch to your chicken salad.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan mayo. The flavor profile will remain delicious while keeping the recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
What type of grapes works best?
Seedless red or green grapes are perfect because they are sweet and juicy without any seeds to interrupt the smooth texture. Feel free to mix both for a colorful presentation.
Can I prepare the chicken salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can increase the Greek yogurt portion or use avocado as a creamy alternative. Just remember the mayo adds a certain tang and texture that’s quite classic, so substituting might slightly change the taste.
How long does it take to make Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe from start to finish?
This recipe is fantastic when you’re short on time, taking only about 15 to 20 minutes total including prep. If you have cooked chicken ready, pulling it all together can be even faster!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe is such a joyful dish to prepare and share. It’s bright, satisfying, and refreshingly different from your usual chicken salad. Whether you’re packing lunches, hosting a casual brunch, or looking for a quick yet special meal, this recipe will not disappoint. I can’t wait for you to enjoy every delicious bite and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Chicken Salad with Grapes on Croissants Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Chicken Salad with Grapes recipe featuring a creamy dressing with Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise, complemented by crunchy toasted nuts, sweet grapes, and fresh tarragon. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner served on croissants or rolls.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/8 cup light mayonnaise (additional)
- 1/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/8 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (additional)
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tarragon, chopped
Serving
- 4–6 croissants or rolls of your choice
Instructions
- Toast Nuts: If using almonds or walnuts, toast them in a small skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool completely before using.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the shredded or diced chicken, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and the cooled toasted nuts (if using) into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until thoroughly mixed. Season again with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken salad onto croissants or rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy this flavorful and creamy chicken salad as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the salad.
- You can substitute the tarragon with fresh dill or parsley if preferred.
- Use seedless grapes for easier eating and a sweeter taste.
- For a lighter version, reduce the mayonnaise or substitute with additional Greek yogurt.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
