There is nothing quite as delightful as a fresh, flavorful salad that feels like a celebration in every bite. The Grape and Chicken Salad with Toasted Nuts on Croissants Recipe brings together tender chicken, juicy grapes, and the irresistible crunch of toasted nuts, all nestled inside buttery croissants. This dish is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory, creating a lunchtime superstar that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re packing a picnic or impressing friends at brunch, this recipe shines with warmth and charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the crispness of celery and grapes to the tangy, creamy dressing, each element is essential and surprisingly simple.
- Slivered almonds or walnuts (1/4 cup): Toasted to bring out their warm, nutty flavor and add delightful crunch.
- Light mayonnaise (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Provides creaminess without weighing the salad down.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup + 1/8 cup): Adds tang and a smooth texture that complements the mayonnaise.
- White wine vinegar (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle acidity that brightens up the dressing.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Introduces a gentle kick and depth to the flavor.
- Honey (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the tang with natural sweetness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Cooked chicken (2 1/2 cups, shredded or diced): The hearty protein base that makes this salad filling and satisfying.
- Red onion (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Adds a mild sharpness and color contrast.
- Celery (1/4 cup, diced): Brings a refreshing crunch for balanced texture.
- Grapes (1/2 cup, halved): Burst of juiciness and subtle sweetness that elevates each bite.
- Tarragon (1 1/2 tablespoons, chopped): Lends a hint of herbal brightness, making the salad truly special.
- Croissants or rolls (4-6): Buttery and flaky bread to serve as the perfect vehicle for the salad.
How to Make Grape and Chicken Salad with Toasted Nuts on Croissants Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Nuts
Start by toasting your slivered almonds or walnuts over medium heat in a dry skillet. Stir them gently for about 3 minutes until they’re fragrant and golden. This small step intensifies their flavor and adds that irresistible crunch to your salad. Once toasted, set them aside to cool completely so they maintain their crispness.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt. This combination creates a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly marries the salad’s sweet and savory elements. Give it a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the shredded chicken, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and the cooled toasted nuts into your dressing. Toss everything until every bite is coated with creamy goodness and perfectly balanced flavors. Taste again and add a bit more salt or pepper if you want to sharpen the profile.
Step 4: Assemble on Croissants
Slice your croissants or rolls carefully and pile on generous scoops of the chicken salad. The croissant’s buttery, flaky texture complements the creamy salad beautifully, making it a sandwich that feels both elevated and comforting. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunchiest contrast between toasted nuts and bread.
How to Serve Grape and Chicken Salad with Toasted Nuts on Croissants Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like a sprig of tarragon or a few halved grapes on top can make your dish look as gorgeous as it tastes. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a tiny drizzle of honey over the salad just before serving can elevate the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of fresh fruit. The fresh and vibrant accompaniments balance the richness of the chicken salad beautifully, making your meal feel thoughtful and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, serve the chicken salad in hollowed-out mini croissants for an elegant finger food, or place it atop crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative. You can also spread it over toasted baguette slices for a crunchy crostini appetizer that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the salad fresh and maintain crispness, it’s best to store the toasted nuts separately and add them just before serving.
Freezing
Due to the fresh ingredients like grapes and mayonnaise, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing can cause the texture to become watery and the flavors to lose their vibrancy.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want a warm croissant, toast the bread separately and then spoon the salad on top just before serving to avoid wilting or sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds or walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts make delicious substitutes and bring their own unique crunch and flavor profile. Just be sure to toast them lightly to enhance their texture and aroma.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise for dairy-free alternatives available in most grocery stores. This change will keep the creamy texture while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I prepare the chicken the day before?
Definitely! Cooking and shredding the chicken a day ahead will save time and allow the flavors of the salad to develop even more deeply once combined. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to mix.
What type of grapes works best in this salad?
Seedless red or green grapes are ideal for sweetness and crunch. Halve them to ensure easy eating and to distribute their juicy bursts evenly throughout the salad.
Can I turn this salad into a wrap instead of serving on croissants?
Yes, using a large tortilla or flatbread wrap is a tasty alternative that’s perfect for on-the-go meals. Just be sure to add the toasted nuts just before rolling to keep everything crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Grape and Chicken Salad with Toasted Nuts on Croissants Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines fresh, vibrant flavors with satisfying textures. Whether you’re treating yourself to a simple weekday lunch or hosting a special brunch, the harmony of juicy grapes, tender chicken, and toasted nuts brings joy to every bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this recipe your own and share it around your table – you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite for so many!
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Grape and Chicken Salad with Toasted Nuts on Croissants Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes (toasting nuts, optional)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and creamy Chicken Salad with Grapes combines tender shredded chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts in a light Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. Perfectly seasoned with tarragon, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey, this salad is delicious served on croissants or rolls for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 1/8 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup + 1/8 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Main Salad Ingredients
- 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
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
Serving
- 4–6 croissants or rolls of your choice
Instructions
- Toast Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, place them in a small skillet over medium heat and toast for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. Whisk together until smooth and fully blended. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, halved grapes, chopped tarragon, and the cooled toasted nuts, if using, into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken salad onto your choice of croissants or rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make chicken salad sandwich.
Notes
- Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch but is optional.
- Use cooked chicken from leftover roast chicken, rotisserie chicken, or boiled chicken breasts.
- Tarragon adds a unique herbal note; if unavailable, fresh parsley can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust mayonnaise and Greek yogurt quantities to your preferred creaminess level.
- Use seedless grapes to avoid bitterness.
- Chicken salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; stir before serving.
