Waldorf Chicken Salad

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on May 28, 2026

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Tart grapes and apples, crunchy celery, red onion, and pecans are tossed with chicken in a creamy lemon dressing in this Waldorf Chicken Salad recipe. Combining the ingredients of two classics, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for meal prep. Enjoy with crackers and veggies, or turn it into a sandwich on a croissant.

Overhead view of a bowl of Waldorf chicken salad

Behind This Waldorf Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’ve been reading my blog for a bit, you know I have a huge love for chicken salad. I probably have over 10 different variations on the site at this point, ranging from classic chunky chicken salad to street corn chicken salad to buffalo chicken salad and everything in between. I love how versatile it is, and it’s so good for meal-prepping a protein-packed lunch (another of my favorite things).

This Waldorf chicken salad recipe takes all of my favorite things about chicken salad and combines it with the ingredients of a classic Waldorf salad. Think grapes, apples, celery, and onions for crunch and flavor, plus some pecans, all tossed with chicken in a creamy dressing.

My version of Waldorf dressing is a bit different than others. It’s mayo-based with a bit of sour cream for tanginess, but I also add some Dijon mustard to really pack in the flavor, plus lemon zest and juice to brighten it up. It’s so, so good and works perfectly with all the flavors in the salad. This is definitely a recipe you’ll want to make on repeat this summer!

Tips From My Kitchen

Adjust the chunkiness of the salad. If you prefer a less chunky chicken salad, finely mince your toppings so they incorporate more easily and have a bit less texture. It’s delicious served either way.
Add dressing in increments. Depending on how creamy and dressing-forward you like your chicken salad, you may not need all of the dressing in this recipe. I like to incorporate half to coat everything, then add more in increments. If I have any left, I save it in the fridge to add later if needed.
Give the dressing a taste. I always like to give the dressing a taste before adding it to the toppings. Sometimes it needs another squeeze of lemon or a bit more salt.
Customize the mix-ins. Waldorf chicken salad is incredibly customizable. You can customize the flavor by using red or green grapes or tart or sweet apple varieties. Or add another mix-in, like cubes of sharp cheddar cheese or green onions instead of red onions.
Make ahead. The flavors in this salad are so much better when they’ve had a chance to meld. For that reason, I highly recommend making this at least two hours in advance so everything has a chance to chill.

Ingredients You’ll Need & Why

This salad combines classic Waldorf salad ingredients with chicken and a few extras. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need. Be sure to check out the exact measurements in the recipe card at the end of the post.

Mayo – The base of the creamy dressing. Feel free to use regular mayo, low-fat mayo, avocado oil mayo, etc.
Sour cream – A bit of sour cream cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise while maintaining the creamy texture. Greek yogurt could also be used here.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing.
Dijon – A small amount of Dijon adds a kick of flavor that works nicely with the lemon.
Lemon – Both lemon juice and zest amp up the lemon flavor in the dressing. It’s easier to zest the lemon before squeezing it.
Spices – Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Chicken – To keep things simple, I like to use chopped rotisserie chicken. You can absolutely cook chicken breast another way and chop it up, if you prefer.
Fruit – Grapes and apples add fresh, tart flavor and crunch to the salad.
Veggies – Celery and red onions also add crunch to the salad.
Pecans – Feel free to substitute with almonds or other nuts.

How To Make Waldorf Chicken Salad

This salad is super quick and easy to make. It comes together in less than 10 minutes! Just remember to make it in advance, so it has plenty of time to chill.

Squeezing lemon juice into creamy dressing

Pouring lemon dressing over Waldorf salad ingredients

Make the dressing. Whisk all of the dressing ingredients in a bowl until combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Combine. Add all of the toppings to a bowl. Pour half the dressing on top and use a spatula to toss. Add the remaining dressing in increments until it’s your desired level of creaminess.
Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Enjoy!

A spoonful of Waldorf chicken salad over a bowl

Ways To Serve It

I like to eat this Waldorf chicken salad almost like a dip with some crackers and veggies. Cucumber rounds, in particular, are great for serving.

It can also be served on a bed of greens as a yummy salad, on lettuce wraps, or on a croissant as a Waldorf chicken salad sandwich.

Or, you know, you might just find yourself eating it from the bowl with a fork because it’s just that good!

Make Ahead & Storage

Waldorf chicken salad is great for meal prep because it lasts in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just keep it covered in an airtight container. If you have any leftover dressing, store that separately to add later. Give it a good stir and enjoy!

Looking for More Chicken Salad Recipes?

Have you tried this Waldorf chicken salad recipe? If so, please comment below with any questions or feedback. Your opinions and reviews help other readers in my community.

Please be sure to tag me @BadBatchBaking using the hashtag #badbatchbaking if you made this recipe, and I will feature you in my story! Plus, I LOVE to see your baking and cooking accomplishments!

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