Introduction to Chicken Salad With Almonds Recipe
Chicken salad with almonds is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and full of flavor. Whether you’re prepping lunch or planning a light dinner, this recipe has you covered. Ready in minutes and easy to customize — you’ll want to make it again and again. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious favorite at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this chicken salad with almonds — here’s why it stands out:
- Crunchy & Creamy Balance: The combination of tender chicken, crisp almonds, and creamy dressing creates the perfect texture in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy — just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute meals.
- Great for Meal Prep: This salad stores well, so you can make it ahead for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Versatile: Serve it on toast, in a wrap, over greens, or straight from the bowl — it’s delicious any way you like it.
- Healthier Option: High in protein and easy to lighten up by swapping ingredients like Greek yogurt for mayo.
- Customizable: Add grapes, apples, herbs, or a dash of spice to make it your own.
Ingredients Overview
This chicken salad with almonds is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for big flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Chicken
Cooked and shredded or chopped chicken breast works best. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
Almonds
Sliced or slivered almonds add a satisfying crunch. Toast them lightly for even more flavor.
Celery
Adds crisp texture and freshness. Dice it finely so it blends well with the chicken.
Green Onions or Red Onion
A bit of onion adds a mild bite. Green onions are milder, while red onions give a sharper flavor.
Mayonnaise
Gives the salad its creamy texture. You can use light mayo or mix with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Greek Yogurt (Optional)
A great way to lighten the dressing while still keeping it creamy and rich in protein.
Dijon Mustard
Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
Lemon Juice
Brightens up the flavor and balances the richness of the mayo.
Salt & Pepper
Simple seasonings that bring everything together. Add to taste.
Optional Add-ins:
You can customize this salad by adding diced apples, halved grapes, dried cranberries, or fresh herbs like tarragon or parsley.
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
This recipe is super flexible, which means you can easily make it your own based on what you have or what you like. Here are some helpful tips and simple swaps to customize your chicken salad:
Chicken Options
- Rotisserie Chicken: A great shortcut that adds flavor and saves time. Just shred and go.
- Poached or Baked Chicken Breast: If you’re starting from scratch, season lightly and cook until tender, then shred or dice.
- Leftover Chicken: A perfect way to use up extra cooked chicken from another meal.
Almond Tips
- Sliced vs. Slivered: Either works! Sliced almonds give a wider crunch, while slivered almonds are a bit more delicate.
- Toast for Extra Flavor: Lightly toasting almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes enhances their nutty flavor. Just be sure not to burn them!
Dressing Swaps
- Greek Yogurt: Swap out part (or all) of the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
- Sour Cream or Avocado: For a different twist, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or mashed avocado.
Mustard Varieties
Dijon Mustard gives a smooth tang, but spicy brown or whole grain mustard works too for a bolder flavor.
Add Some Sweetness
Grapes, Apples, or Dried Cranberries: If you like a sweet-savory combo, stir in some fruit for contrast and freshness.
Fresh Herbs
Tarragon, Parsley, or Dill: These add brightness and depth. Tarragon pairs especially well with chicken and almonds.
Crunch Alternatives
No celery? Try diced cucumber or even jicama for a similar crisp bite.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Almonds
This recipe comes together quickly and easily with just a few steps. Here’s how to make a delicious, creamy almond chicken salad from scratch:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start with cooked and cooled chicken. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken works well, or you can use baked, boiled, or poached chicken breast.
- Tip: If cooking chicken from scratch, season it lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds (Optional but Recommended)
Place the sliced or slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until golden and fragrant — about 3–4 minutes. Let them cool. Toasting brings out the natural nuttiness and adds a warm crunch to the salad.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise (or a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt)
- Dijon mustard
- Fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
To the bowl with the dressing, add:
- Shredded chicken
- Diced celery
- Chopped green onions or red onion
- Toasted almonds
Gently toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Equipment Needed
One of the best things about this chicken salad with almonds is how low-effort it is — you don’t need any fancy tools. Here’s all you’ll need to pull it together:
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife
Essential for chopping the chicken, celery, onions, and any optional add-ins like apples or herbs.
Mixing Bowls
Use one large bowl for combining the salad and a smaller one for whisking the dressing.
Whisk or Fork
To mix the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Spatula or Large Spoon
Perfect for gently folding the ingredients together without crushing the almonds.
Skillet (Optional)
If you’re toasting the almonds, a dry nonstick skillet works best. Just a few minutes over medium heat brings out their flavor.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
To get the proportions right, especially for the dressing ingredients and seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad with almonds is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re packing lunch or putting together a quick meal, there are plenty of tasty ways to enjoy it:
Classic Sandwich
Scoop the salad between two slices of your favorite bread — sourdough, whole grain, or croissant for a buttery upgrade. Add crisp lettuce for extra crunch.
Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, spoon the chicken salad into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for a quick bite.
On Crackers
Serve it as an appetizer or snack with whole grain or buttery crackers. It’s great for entertaining or an easy protein-packed snack.
Over a Bed of Greens
Turn it into a full meal by serving it on a salad. Add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing and balanced lunch.
In a Wrap or Tortilla
Roll it up in a whole wheat tortilla or flatbread for a portable, satisfying lunch.
Stuffed in Veggies
Scoop it into halved bell peppers, tomatoes, or even avocado halves for a fun, colorful presentation.
Chicken Salad Plate
Keep it simple and classic by plating a scoop with sliced fruit, a boiled egg, and a side of bread or crackers — great for meal prep or brunch.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
This chicken salad with almonds isn’t just easy to make — it also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or grab-and-go meals. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:
Storing in the Fridge
Use an airtight container to keep the salad from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. It stays fresh for up to 3–4 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. If you added fresh fruits (like apples or grapes), it’s best to eat within 1–2 days as the fruit may release moisture or change texture.
- Tip: If you’re planning to make it ahead, consider adding the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep all ingredients separately (chicken, dressing, chopped veggies, toasted almonds) and store them in individual containers. When ready to serve, just mix everything together. This is a great option if you want to keep textures fresh or customize portions throughout the week.
Freezing Not Recommended
Because of the mayo/yogurt-based dressing, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture will separate and become watery once thawed. Best enjoyed fresh — luckily, it comes together quickly anytime you need it.
Nutrition Info
This chicken salad with almonds is not only delicious but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on a typical recipe using 1 cup of chicken salad):
Approximate Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300–350
- Protein: 20–25g
- Fat: 20–25g
- Carbohydrates: 5–8g
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Sugar: 2–4g
These values can vary depending on ingredient choices (e.g., using Greek yogurt instead of mayo, adding fruit, etc.).
Key Nutrients
- Protein: The chicken provides a solid protein boost, perfect for muscle repair and satiety.
- Healthy Fats: The almonds and mayo (or Greek yogurt) add healthy fats that are good for heart health and energy.
- Fiber: The celery, onions, and optional add-ins (like apples) contribute fiber for digestive health.
- Vitamins & Minerals: You’ll get a dose of vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients from the veggies and herbs.
Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to cut calories or fat:
- Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt or use a light mayo option.
- Skip or reduce the amount of almonds for fewer fats and carbs, while still maintaining a bit of crunch.
- For an even lighter version, serve on a bed of mixed greens or use lettuce wraps instead of bread.
Great for Low-Carb Diets
With minimal carbs (especially if you skip or reduce the fruit and serve it in lettuce wraps), this recipe fits well into low-carb or keto diets.
Final Notes & Variations
This chicken salad with almonds is already a tasty and versatile dish, but if you’re looking to switch things up or add a personal twist, here are some final notes and variations to consider:
Final Notes
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing’s ingredients. If you like it tangier, add a bit more Dijon mustard or lemon juice. For a creamier version, use extra mayo or Greek yogurt.
- Make It Your Own: This recipe is a great base for your creativity. The flavor of chicken and almonds pairs well with so many add-ins, so don’t hesitate to try new combinations.
- Keep It Fresh: To get the most out of the salad, store it in an airtight container and keep the almonds separate until serving, especially if you’ve made the salad ahead of time.
Recipe Variations
- Panera-Inspired Chicken Salad: To mimic the popular Panera version, add grapes (halved) for a sweet touch and chopped celery for extra crunch.
- Tarragon Chicken Salad: Swap out the mayo for a creamy mustard dressing, and toss in fresh tarragon for a unique herbal flavor that complements the chicken and almonds beautifully.
- Add Fruits: For a touch of sweetness, stir in diced apples, raisins, or cranberries. These fruits bring a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken and almonds.
- Spicy Chicken Salad: For a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing. You could even throw in some hot sauce or sriracha for an extra kick.
- Avocado Chicken Salad: For a richer, creamier texture, mash in a ripe avocado. This variation gives a fresh, buttery flavor and also adds healthy fats.
- Curry Chicken Salad: Add a tablespoon of curry powder to the dressing for a warm, spiced version that gives the salad an exotic twist.
- Low-Carb/Keto Version: Skip the apples or grapes, and serve the salad in lettuce cups or alongside a side of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Conclusion
This chicken salad with almonds is a simple, yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy dressing, crunchy almonds, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. Whether you enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or over fresh greens, this versatile dish is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Plus, with easy make-ahead tips and plenty of ways to adjust the recipe to your tastes, you can enjoy it in countless ways. Try it today and discover just how tasty and convenient healthy meals can be!
FAQS
Chicken Salad With Almonds Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 3 heaping cups fully cooked chicken breast chopped (I used rotisserie chicken)
- ½ cup halved or quartered seedless red grapes
- ⅓ cup diced celery
Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice from 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
- ½ teaspoon fine ground sea salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
For the Rest:
- 12 slices sourdough sandwich bread
- 2 small tomatoes sliced
- green leaf lettuce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Place the almonds on a small baking sheet and transfer to the oven for 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
- Add chicken, grapes, and celery to a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl combine the dressing ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top of the chicken mixture and mix to incorporate the dressing throughout. Add the cooled almonds and mix lightly to combine.
- Divide the mixture between the bread and top with tomato and green leaf lettuce.