Classic Chicken Salad with Grapes and Almonds - Perfect for Croissants

July 5, 2024

Just What Is So Great About This Sandwich?

I just want to tell you how it came to be that I started to make this amazing sandwich. A few years back I was with my book club gal pals and we attended a charming little luncheon, where we were served the most incredible chicken salad sandwich. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy almonds, and a creamy dressing all tucked into a buttery croissant was just irresistible. I couldn’t leave without asking for the recipe! Once I tried making it at home, it was an instant hit. Now, this is my go-to sandwich for special company—it’s colorful, full of different textures, and absolutely delicious.

Just What Is So Great About This Sandwich?

I just want to tell you how it came to be that I started making this amazing sandwich. A few years back, I was with my book club gal pals, and we attended a charming little luncheon where we were served the most incredible chicken salad sandwich. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy almonds, and a creamy dressing all tucked into a buttery croissant was simply irresistible. I couldn’t leave without asking for the recipe! Once I tried making it at home, it was an instant hit. Now, this is my go-to sandwich for special company—it’s colorful, full of different textures, and absolutely delicious.

Did You Know?

Chicken salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Grapes add a burst of natural sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K. Almonds provide healthy fats and vitamin E, which is good for skin health. Celery adds a satisfying crunch and is low in calories but high in fiber, aiding in digestion. This combination makes chicken salad a well-rounded and healthy meal option.

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients:

Salad:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup red seedless grapes, halved
1/2 cup green seedless grapes, halved
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
4 large croissants, halved

Creamy Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Dice the cooked chicken breast, halve the red and green grapes, toast the almonds, and chop the celery, red onion, dill, and parsley.
Personal Tip: Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start mixing. It makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Personal Tip: Taste the dressing as you go to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra lemon juice can add a refreshing zing.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, halved grapes, toasted almonds, celery, red onion, dill, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
Personal Tip: Gently toss the ingredients to keep the grapes and chicken pieces intact, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.

Prepare the Croissants:

Slice the croissants in half horizontally.
Personal Tip: Lightly toast the croissants for a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken salad.

Serve:

Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto the bottom half of each croissant and top with the other half. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy as a sandwich or on a bed of lettuce.
Personal Tip: For a more refined touch, try adding a few extra grapes or almond slices on top of the chicken salad before closing the croissant. This not only adds extra flavor and texture but also makes the sandwich look even more appetizing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

Using Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Ensure it is fully cooled before dicing for easier handling.
Toasting Almonds: Toasting the almonds brings out their natural flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley add a burst of flavor and color to the salad. You can also try adding fresh chives or basil for a different twist.
Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken salad and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Serving Suggestions: This chicken salad pairs well with croissants, whole grain bread, or as a filling for lettuce wraps. It’s also great as a topping for crackers or as a side dish with fresh vegetables.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings like honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette for variety. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Adding Crunch: For added texture, consider mixing in some diced apples or dried cranberries. These ingredients also add a touch of sweetness.
Budget-Friendly Tips: Buy chicken in bulk when it’s on sale and cook it in batches. You can also use leftover chicken from other meals to reduce waste.
Storage: Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Creative Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra grape halves on top of the salad before serving for a polished and appetizing presentation.

Let’s Learn A Little About How The Chickens We Eat Are Raised

The quality of your chicken salad starts with the chicken itself. How chickens are raised can significantly impact their flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Chickens raised in free-range environments have access to the outdoors, allowing them to forage and eat a more natural diet, which can lead to better-tasting meat. These chickens are typically healthier and are less likely to be treated with antibiotics compared to those raised in confined, industrial settings. Organic chickens are raised without the use of synthetic pesticides or genetically modified feed, making them a cleaner choice. However, it’s important to note that organic and free-range labels don’t always guarantee humane treatment or the highest quality, so it’s wise to do a bit of research on the brands you buy. By choosing chicken that is raised in more natural and ethical environments, you’re not only supporting better farming practices but also ensuring that your meals are both flavorful and health-conscious.

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