The beauty of this Chunky Chicken Salad lies in its perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory. Juicy apples, crisp celery, and toasted nuts lend a beautiful texture contrast to tender shredded chicken, all enveloped in a luscious mayo-mustard dressing. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering, brunch, or just meal prepping for the week, this salad is as convenient as it is satisfying. Serve it chilled, on fluffy croissants, or with a side of crackers for a no-fuss dish that tastes like Southern comfort in every bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 lbs boneless chicken breasts (or rotisserie chicken, shredded)
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4 medium Gala or Fuji apples, chopped
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1 medium red onion, finely chopped
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1 cup chopped celery
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1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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1 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s preferred)
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1/4 cup brown mustard
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
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If using boneless chicken breasts, place them in a large stockpot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Let cool completely.
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Chop or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized chunks.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, chopped apples, red onion, celery, and nuts.
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Add mayonnaise and brown mustard. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
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Serve chilled with crackers, on croissants, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 251 kcal | Servings: 20 servings
A Beloved Family Favorite with a Southern Twist
Chunky Chicken Salad is not just another salad recipe—it’s a Southern staple that brings together creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory in the most satisfying way possible. Rooted in generations of home-cooked meals and cherished family gatherings, this chicken salad stands out for its rich texture and flavor complexity.
Unlike overly processed or bland deli salads, this homemade version packs a punch with its combination of tender chicken, crisp apples, crunchy nuts, fresh celery, and the perfect touch of tangy mustard mixed into creamy mayonnaise. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of Sunday brunches, summer picnics, and lazy afternoons at Grandma’s kitchen table.
Why This Recipe Stands Out from the Rest
What truly sets this Chunky Chicken Salad apart is its thoughtful blend of textures and flavors. The sweetness of Gala or Fuji apples balances the sharpness of red onion, while toasted walnuts or pecans add a buttery crunch that enhances every bite. Add in the juicy, well-seasoned chicken—preferably from a rotisserie for convenience and flavor—and you have a dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to make.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it on a buttery croissant, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, or with crackers for a satisfying snack. It’s light yet filling, elegant yet casual, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Gatherings
One of the major advantages of this recipe is its practicality. With a prep time of just 10 minutes (if using rotisserie chicken), it’s a lifesaver for busy weekdays or last-minute guests. It also keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or planning ahead for events.
Hosting a family reunion, beach trip, or weekend brunch? This chicken salad feeds a crowd—up to 20 people! And the recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on your needs. For larger groups, just pack it into a zip-top bag or airtight container, and you’re ready to go.
Healthier Than You Might Think
Despite its rich and creamy texture, Chunky Chicken Salad is relatively healthy. It’s high in protein, thanks to the chicken, and offers healthy fats from the nuts. Apples add natural sweetness and fiber, while celery contributes hydration and crunch with minimal calories.
You can also tailor it to your dietary preferences:
- Lower fat? Use Greek yogurt or a half mayo/half yogurt mix.
- Keto-friendly? Skip the apples and use all pecans.
- Vegan or vegetarian twist? Sub chickpeas or tofu for the chicken.
It’s one of those recipes that welcomes creativity while staying true to its comforting core.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
Each component in this recipe plays a vital role in its overall flavor and texture profile:
- Chicken: The protein base. Rotisserie chicken saves time while infusing the salad with savory seasoning.
- Apples: Adds natural sweetness and crispness. Gala or Fuji are preferred for their balance of sweet and tart.
- Red Onion: Brings a sharp, peppery kick that offsets the creamy base.
- Celery: Offers a hydrating crunch and lightens up the salad’s richness.
- Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts): Add depth, texture, and healthy fats.
- Mayonnaise: Duke’s is a Southern favorite known for its extra tang, but you can use your preferred brand.
- Brown Mustard: The secret ingredient! Adds a zesty, slightly spicy note that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Make-Ahead Friendly and Travel Ready
One of the key reasons this dish is so loved is how well it travels. Whether you’re heading to a beach house, potluck, or office lunch, it’s a no-mess, no-fuss dish. Prep it the night before, chill it in the fridge, and it’s ready to serve cold—no heating required. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together overnight.
Transport it in a cooler, airtight container, or even a large freezer bag for easy storage and serving. No soggy salads, no wilted greens—just a fresh, flavorful bite every time.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
While it shines on its own, Chunky Chicken Salad also plays well with others:
- Serve in croissants for a classy brunch or bridal shower.
- Stuff into pita pockets for a more casual, handheld option.
- Top on romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a refreshing low-carb meal.
- Pair with fresh fruit or a chilled pasta salad for a complete summer lunch spread.
- Add grapes or dried cranberries for a sweeter variation.
The possibilities are endless, and that’s part of the charm.
Customizable for Every Taste
This recipe is forgiving and adaptable. You can substitute or add ingredients based on personal taste or dietary needs. Some ideas:
- Swap red onions with green onions or chives for a milder flavor.
- Add a dash of garlic powder or paprika for depth.
- Mix in Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangier finish.
- Include raisins or dried apricots for extra sweetness.
That flexibility means it never gets boring—you can reinvent this classic time and time again.
A Comfort Food With Gourmet Flair
Even though it’s simple to make, this salad doesn’t skimp on sophistication. The balance of savory, sweet, and tangy makes it feel gourmet without the effort. That’s the beauty of Southern cooking—it elevates humble ingredients into memorable meals through balance and love.
When you serve this dish, you’re offering more than a quick lunch option—you’re serving tradition, nostalgia, and delicious nourishment in every bite.
Storage Tips and Safety
Make sure to store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3–4 days. For best results:
- Always chill before serving.
- Stir well before each serving to redistribute any settling ingredients.
- Don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours, especially in warm temperatures.
If you’re bringing it to a party, keep it in a cooler with ice packs until serving time.
Conclusion
This Chunky Chicken Salad is one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. It’s easy, nourishing, versatile, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re prepping weekday lunches or planning a big event, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Its flavor, texture, and convenience make it the ultimate go-to chicken salad—creamy, crunchy, hearty, and completely satisfying. Add it to your recipe box today and watch it become an instant favorite with friends and family alike.