If you are looking for a delightful salad that perfectly balances creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch, then Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together tender shredded chicken, juicy grapes, and tart dried cranberries in a luscious mayonnaise blend that’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re packing lunch, preparing a light dinner, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this chicken salad combines fresh textures and vibrant tastes that feel both comforting and exciting in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as it sounds, the magic of Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe is in the quality and variety of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the crunchy celery adding freshness to the sweet grapes that give a burst of juicy flavor. Together, they create a harmonious texture and a colorful presentation that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Tender, protein-packed base for the salad that’s both hearty and mild-flavored.
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise: The creamy binder that brings all the ingredients together with richness and smoothness.
- â…” cup celery, diced small: Adds crispness and a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances the creaminess.
- 1 medium Gala apple, peeled and diced small: Sweet with a hint of tartness, these apples brighten each bite and complement the grapes.
- ¾ cup small red grapes, halved: Juicy bursts of natural sweetness and color that contrast lovely with the other textures.
- â…“ cup dried cranberries: Tart and chewy, these cranberries provide an exciting tang that enhances the flavor complexity.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Ritz crackers and white bread, for serving: Ideal vehicles for enjoying the salad, adding crunch or softness based on your mood.
How to Make Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Hydrate the Cranberries
Start by placing your dried cranberries in a small bowl, then cover them with hot water. This step is key because it softens the cranberries, making them juicier and preventing them from drying out the salad. Let them soak for about 15 to 20 minutes, then drain thoroughly and gently squeeze out any excess water.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, peeled and diced Gala apple, halved grapes, and your now hydrated cranberries. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until everything is evenly coated, and each ingredient is beautifully distributed. The colors alone will make you smile!
Step 3: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes. This chilling step is important because it allows the flavors to marry and develop into that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that makes Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra halved grapes or a pinch of freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. A small handful of toasted walnuts or pecans also works wonderfully to add extra texture and nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet grapes and cranberries.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad shines brightest alongside crisp, buttery Ritz crackers or soft white bread, creating a comforting and elegant bite. For a more wholesome meal, serve it with a light green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to keep the meal fresh and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
Take things up a notch by spooning Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe into hollowed-out avocado halves or inside crisp cucumber boats for a fun and crowd-pleasing appetizer. It also makes a charming filling for small puff pastries or croissants, perfect for brunch or a fancy picnic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your salad, be sure to keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing. The mayonnaise base and fresh fruits do not hold up well to freezing, as the texture and flavor can be compromised.
Reheating
Since this chicken salad is served chilled, reheating is not necessary. Simply give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and enjoy it cold for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for the salad?
Absolutely! While Gala apples are recommended for their sweet and mild flavor, you can substitute with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith apples, depending on whether you want more sweetness or tartness in your salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe is excellent for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge for several days and provides a quick, nutritious option for lunches.
Can I reduce the mayonnaise or use a substitute?
Yes, you can reduce the mayonnaise for a lighter salad or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist and fewer calories. Just keep in mind that this will slightly change the texture and flavor.
How do I rehydrate cranberries if I don’t have hot water?
If you don’t have hot water handy, you can soak the cranberries in warm apple juice or even orange juice for an extra burst of flavor and sweetness.
Can I add nuts to Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds make excellent additions. They add great crunch and an earthy note that complements the sweetness of the fruits beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe is truly a winner that brings warmth and delight to the dinner table or lunchbox. Its fruity freshness paired with creamy chicken salad is a match made in heaven that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this colorful, tasty gem—you won’t regret it!
Print
Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes and Cranberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Joann’s Chicken Salad with Grapes is a delicious and refreshing dish combining tender shredded chicken with creamy mayonnaise, crisp celery, sweet apples, juicy grapes, and rehydrated cranberries. Perfectly seasoned and chilled, this chicken salad serves wonderfully as a sandwich filling or a snack with crackers, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
- â…” cup celery, diced small
- 1 medium Gala apple, peeled and diced small
- ¾ cup small red grapes, halved
- â…“ cup dried cranberries
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Serving Suggestions
- Ritz crackers
- White bread
Instructions
- Hydrate Cranberries: Place the dried cranberries in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes to soften up. After soaking, drain the cranberries and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken breast, mayonnaise, diced celery, peeled and diced Gala apple, halved red grapes, and the rehydrated cranberries. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to thoroughly meld together. Serve the chilled chicken salad as a sandwich filling on white bread or as an accompaniment with Ritz crackers for a light and tasty meal or snack.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure to peel the apple to keep the salad smooth and avoid extra texture from the peel.
- Use freshly cooked chicken breast or leftover roasted chicken for best results.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise depending on your preferred creaminess level.
