Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and crunchy flavors wrapped in a creamy, refreshing dressing. This classic American-style chicken salad transforms store-bought rotisserie chicken into an elegant, satisfying dish that works just as well for weekday lunches as it does for picnics, potlucks, and light dinners.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its convenience. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor, making this salad a reliable go-to when you want something homemade but effortless. It’s comfort food that feels fresh, wholesome, and slightly elevated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet sophisticated. The contrast between creamy dressing, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile—serve it as a sandwich, a wrap, or a salad, and it never gets boring.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy using rotisserie chicken
• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy
• Great for meal prep and gatherings
• Can be served multiple ways
• Light yet satisfying

This is a timeless chicken salad that never fails to impress.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Salad / Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (toasting pecans, optional)
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 380–420 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
• ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup red onion or green onion, finely diced

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon honey (for added sweetness)
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Toast pecans lightly, if desired
2. Combine chicken, grapes, pecans, and vegetables
3. Mix dressing ingredients separately
4. Toss everything together until well coated
5. Chill before serving for best flavor

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Remove skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans (Optional)

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Allow to cool completely.

Step 3: Add Fruits and Vegetables

Add halved grapes, chopped celery, and diced onion to the bowl with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Chill

Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve as a sandwich or croissant filling
• Spoon over mixed greens for a low-carb option
• Use as a wrap or pita filling
• Serve with crackers for a light lunch
• Add to lettuce cups for a fresh presentation

Recipe Tips

• Chill the salad before serving for better flavor
• Toast pecans for deeper, nuttier taste
• Cut grapes evenly for balanced sweetness
• Adjust dressing quantity to taste
• Use white meat for a lighter texture

Variations

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad

Swap grapes for dried cranberries and pecans for walnuts.

Curried Chicken Salad

Add 1 teaspoon curry powder and a pinch of turmeric to the dressing.

Avocado Chicken Salad

Mix in diced avocado just before serving for creaminess.

Spicy Chicken Salad

Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps well for 3–4 days

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended due to mayonnaise and grapes affecting texture

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Skillet (optional, for toasting pecans)

Conclusion

Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly versatile dish that brings together convenience and homemade goodness. Whether you’re preparing lunch for the week or serving guests at a gathering, this salad delivers satisfying texture, balanced flavor, and timeless appeal. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.