Name: Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 bag baby kale ((about 6-8 cups)); 1 granny smith apple (, chopped); 1/2 cup seedless red grapes (, halved); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese; 1/2 medium ripe avocado (, diced or sliced); 2 leftover grilled chicken breasts ((8 oz), diced into cubes); 1/4 cup walnuts halves ((1 oz)); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 garlic clove (, minced); 1 teaspoon dijon mustard; Salt and pepper (, to taste)

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Whenever I think of a refreshing meal that packs a punch, the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad comes to mind. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that never fails to impress. I remember the first time I made this dish for a family gathering. My cousins were skeptical about the combination of ingredients, but after the first bite, their eyes lit up with surprise and delight. The crispness of the kale contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the grapes and the richness of the goat cheese. Plus, who can resist the creamy allure of avocado? Over the years, this salad has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for everything from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife

What I love most about the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Even if you’re short on time, this recipe offers a quick assembly with minimal effort for maximum flavor. The balance of the sweet and savory elements makes it a dish that appeals to everyone at the table, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those greens. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying, or you just want to impress your guests, this salad is the way to go!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad

Nutritious and Flavorful Ingredients

One of the standout features of the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is its emphasis on wholesome ingredients. The baby kale serves as a robust base, loaded with vitamins and minerals, while the granny smith apples add a sharp, refreshing crunch. The sweetness of the red grapes perfectly complements the tangy goat cheese, creating a delightful balance. Each component plays a crucial role, making each bite unique.

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is straightforward and rewarding to make.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a salad that holds up well over a few days, this is it! The ingredients keep their texture and flavor, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just toss everything together and pack it for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Customizable for Everyone

Another reason I adore this salad is its adaptability. Want to make it vegetarian? Simply swap the chicken for some chickpeas. Not a fan of goat cheese? You can leave it out or use your favorite cheese instead. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer picnic or a winter gathering, the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad fits right in. It’s light enough for warm days but hearty enough to satisfy during colder months. You can serve it as an elegant side dish or a hearty main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad

When creating the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad, the selection of ingredients is key. Each component adds its own unique flavor and nutritional benefit. The combination of fresh produce and hearty protein makes this salad not only delicious but also satisfying and nourishing.

1 bag baby kale (about 6-8 cups) – The base of this salad, baby kale is packed with nutrients and adds a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweeter ingredients.
1 granny smith apple, chopped – The tartness of the granny smith apple brings a refreshing crunch that elevates the dish.
1/2 cup seedless red grapes, halved – These provide a sweet burst in every bite and complement the other flavors perfectly.
1/4 cup dried cranberries – A touch of sweetness and chewy texture that adds depth to the salad.
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese – The creamy texture of goat cheese enhances the flavor profile, offering a delightful richness.
1/2 medium ripe avocado, diced or sliced – Adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the salad more filling.
2 leftover grilled chicken breasts (8 oz), diced into cubes – A great source of protein, the chicken makes this salad a complete meal.
1/4 cup walnuts halves (1 oz) – Crunchy and rich, walnuts enhance the texture and provide healthy fats.
For the dressing:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps to meld the other ingredients together.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Provides a tangy sweetness that brightens the salad.
1 garlic clove, minced – Infuses the dressing with a savory depth.
1 teaspoon dijon mustard – Adds a slight kick and flavor balance to the dressing.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Recipe Directions for Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad

Making the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is a simple process that results in a deliciously satisfying meal. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful salad ready to serve in no time!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. You want it hot enough to toast the walnuts and bring out their flavor. Make sure to give it a few moments to reach the right temperature.
Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be fragrant and golden but not burnt. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool on the sheet.
Once the walnuts have cooled, chop them into smaller pieces. This will make them easier to distribute throughout the salad and add that perfect crunch.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and dijon mustard. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing will give the salad a lovely depth of flavor.
Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust it according to your preference; a little seasoning can make a big difference!
In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby kale, chopped granny smith apple, halved red grapes, and dried cranberries. The flavors will start to mingle, creating a colorful and vibrant salad.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss again. Ensure all the ingredients are well coated in the delicious dressing. You want every bite to be flavorful!
Top your salad with the crumbled goat cheese, diced avocado, and the toasted walnuts. This layer not only adds flavor but also makes the salad visually appealing.
Finally, add the diced grilled chicken on top. This makes the salad hearty enough to be a meal on its own. If you’re serving right away, you can also toss the chicken in with the other ingredients.
Serve the salad immediately. The freshness of the ingredients will shine, and you’ll have a beautiful dish to delight your family and friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Toast the walnuts: Toasting releases the oils and enhances the flavor of the walnuts. Make sure not to skip this step!
Use ripe avocados: A ripe avocado adds creaminess and flavor. Look for avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
Dress just before serving: To keep the salad fresh and crunchy, only dress it just before you’re ready to serve.
Chill for flavor: If you have time, let the salad sit in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Substitutions and Tips

There are many ways to customize your Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad or make it last longer. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients can change after freezing.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread.
Meal Prep: Prepare the ingredients in advance, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. This ensures everything stays fresh.
Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Serving Options for Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad

When it comes to serving the Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad, the options are as delightful as the salad itself. Here’s how you can enjoy this nourishing dish:

As a Main Course: This salad is hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish. Serve it at lunch or dinner for a filling meal.
Perfect for Potlucks: The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it an attractive option for potlucks and gatherings.
Pair with Grilled Proteins: It complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
Seasonal Variations: Enjoy it with seasonal fruits; swap in pears or berries based on what’s available.
Light Summer Meal: Serve it chilled on hot days for a satisfying and cool meal option.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients and the crisp texture of the kale. If you do dress it early, consider storing it in the fridge and giving it a gentle toss before serving.

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, there are several delicious alternatives you can use. Creamy feta, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar can work well. For a vegan option, consider using cashew cheese or any store-bought plant-based cheese that you enjoy. The key is to choose something that complements the sweet and savory aspects of the salad.

Yes! The Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Pack the kale, chicken, fruits, and nuts in one container, and keep the dressing in a small jar. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine everything, and you’ll have a fresh and healthy meal in no time!

Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. If you want to change up the flavors, consider using pears, blueberries, or even mandarin oranges. Just remember to adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing if you’re using particularly sweet fruits to maintain balance.

Conclusion

The Chicken Kale Waldorf Salad is truly a gem of a dish, combining delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients that appeal to everyone. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet lunch at home, this salad is perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!