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Fresh Lunch Classic

Featured in Crisp and Refreshing Salads.

This versatile chicken salad combines rotisserie chicken with fresh apples, almonds, and dried cranberries in a honey-dijon dressing, perfect for sandwiches or light meals.
Casey
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:08:49 GMT
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A stacked sandwich filled with chicken salad and almonds sits atop a bed of spinach and apple slices in a dark bowl. Pin it
A stacked sandwich filled with chicken salad and almonds sits atop a bed of spinach and apple slices in a dark bowl. | cookingwithcasey.com

I absolutely love finding new ways to jazz up classic chicken salad and this apple version has become my new obsession. There's something magical about how the sweet crisp apples play with tender rotisserie chicken all wrapped in a creamy dreamy dressing. It's become my go to lunch option when I want something fresh and satisfying.

A Fall-Inspired Twist

My apple trees have been so generous this year and I've been finding every excuse to use them in my cooking. From cobblers to pies and now this refreshing chicken salad. If you've ever tried chicken salad with grapes you're going to absolutely love this apple version it brings such a wonderful crisp sweetness to every bite.

Let's Gather Our Ingredients

  • Rotisserie Chicken: Get it fresh and warm it shreds so beautifully.
  • Almonds: Toast them yourself for amazing flavor.
  • Cranberries: I love using unsweetened ones tart cherries work beautifully too.
  • Apples: Honeycrisp is my favorite for that perfect sweet crunch.
  • Green Onions: Just a few thin slices add such nice flavor.
  • Mayo: Full fat makes it extra creamy.
  • Sour Cream: Adds such lovely tang.
  • Honey: Just a touch of sweetness.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: That extra zip makes everything pop.
  • Dijon Mustard: Gives it that perfect depth.

Let's Make Something Delicious

Start with the dressing:
Whisk all those creamy ingredients together until they're perfectly smooth.
Mix the salad:
Combine your chicken apples nuts and cranberries in a big bowl.
Bring it together:
Pour that lovely dressing over everything and give it a gentle toss.

Ways to Enjoy

I love serving this so many different ways. Pile it high on multigrain bread or a buttery croissant. For something lighter try it on apple slices or lettuce wraps. It's amazing stuffed in avocados or simply scooped onto mixed greens. Sometimes I'll even serve it with crackers for easy snacking.

My Best Tips

Don't be afraid to play around with different apples each variety brings its own personality. Toast those nuts if you can it makes such a difference. And if you have time let it chill for a few hours the flavors get even better.

A close-up of a stacked sandwich made with whole grain bread, filled with chicken salad, chopped apples, almonds, and cranberries, served on a plate with spinach leaves. Pin it
A close-up of a stacked sandwich made with whole grain bread, filled with chicken salad, chopped apples, almonds, and cranberries, served on a plate with spinach leaves. | cookingwithcasey.com

Keeping It Fresh

This salad stays beautiful in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days in a sealed container. I don't recommend freezing it though the mayo and apples just don't hold up well. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers give everything a good stir first.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why soak apples in salt water?
Soaking apples in salt water prevents browning and helps them stay fresh longer. The quick rinse ensures no salty taste remains.
→ Why toast the almonds?
Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. It brings out natural oils and creates a deeper, nuttier taste.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but for best results, prepare the dressing and other ingredients separately and combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
→ Why use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken provides convenience and adds extra flavor. It's also typically more moist than home-cooked chicken breast.
→ What are the best apples to use?
Honeycrisp apples are preferred for their sweet-tart flavor and crisp texture, but any firm, crisp apple variety will work well.

Apple Chicken Salad

A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad with sweet apples, crunchy almonds, and tangy cranberries in a creamy honey-mustard dressing.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Casey


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 sandwiches)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 2 cups diced cooked chicken (rotisserie preferred).
02 1/2 cup sliced almonds.
03 1/3 cup dried cranberries or tart cherries.
04 1 cup finely diced apples (Honeycrisp preferred).
05 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions (optional).
06 1/3 cup mayo.
07 3 tablespoons sour cream.
08 1 1/2 tablespoons honey.
09 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar.
10 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard.
11 1/4 teaspoon salt.
12 1/8 teaspoon pepper.

Instructions

Step 01

Whisk all dressing ingredients until smooth.

Step 02

Mix salad ingredients in large bowl, add dressing and toss well.

Step 03

Toast almonds in dry skillet 3-5 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 04

Soak diced apples in salted water 5 minutes, rinse and dry.

Step 05

Serve in sandwiches, on lettuce, with crackers, or as preferred.

Notes

  1. Multiple serving options.
  2. Can prep components ahead.
  3. Tips for keeping apples fresh.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls.
  • Whisk.
  • Skillet (if toasting almonds).

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (sour cream).
  • Nuts (almonds).
  • Eggs (mayo).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 307
  • Total Fat: 23 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25 g
  • Protein: 4 g