Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings together tender chicken, sweet grapes, crisp apples, and crunchy celery. This Southern-inspired variation of the classic Waldorf salad introduces cooked pasta and a creamy dressing that balances the freshness of the fruit and the heartiness of the chicken, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
This salad is perfect as a standalone lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck option, or a make-ahead dinner for busy weekdays. It captures the essence of comfort food with a modern twist. The tangy dressing binds everything together, while the walnuts or pecans add a toasty crunch that elevates each bite. Served cold, it’s ideal for warm days or as a holiday side. The flavors only improve as it chills, making it an excellent prep-ahead recipe.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
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1 cup red grapes, halved
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1 apple, diced (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
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2 stalks celery, chopped
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, diced chicken, grapes, apple, celery, and nuts.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix to coat all ingredients evenly.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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Serve cold, garnished with extra walnuts or fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes (if chicken/pasta not pre-cooked) | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is a flavorful fusion of two beloved classics Waldorf Salad and Chicken Pasta Salad. This modern adaptation combines tender cooked chicken, crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts, all tossed with chilled pasta and coated in a rich, creamy dressing. It’s an ideal make-ahead recipe for spring and summer entertaining, family dinners, meal prep, and potlucks. With its unique balance of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy, this salad is more than just a side dish it’s a star in its own right.
The Origins of the Waldorf Salad
The original Waldorf Salad dates back to the 1890s and was created at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. It traditionally included apples, celery, and mayonnaise, later evolving to include grapes and nuts. This innovative combination of fruit and savory elements quickly gained popularity, particularly for its lightness and refreshing taste.
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad takes this classic one step further by adding chicken and pasta, making it a complete and hearty dish while preserving the freshness and crunch that made the original famous.
Why This Recipe Works
What sets this salad apart is the harmony of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the grapes and apples is offset by the tangy dressing, while the nuts add richness and crunch. The chicken brings protein and substance, and the pasta turns it into a fulfilling meal. It’s a versatile dish that appeals to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters.
Additionally, this salad is adaptable. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, grilled leftovers, or freshly poached breast, it blends seamlessly into the mix. You can swap regular pasta with whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta depending on dietary needs. Likewise, the dressing can be made lighter by substituting Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise.
Ideal Occasions to Serve It
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is well-suited for a variety of occasions. It makes an elegant lunch when served over greens or in lettuce cups, a delicious side dish at cookouts, and a satisfying dinner when paired with crusty bread. It also holds up well in the fridge, making it a favorite for meal prep and office lunches.
If you’re planning a brunch, picnic, bridal shower, or garden party, this salad is an ideal addition to the menu. Its colors and textures are visually appealing, while its flavors are familiar and comforting.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile
This salad offers several nutritional benefits. The chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. Apples and grapes contribute dietary fiber and antioxidants, while celery offers hydration and vitamin K. Nuts like walnuts or pecans supply healthy fats, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
While the traditional dressing contains mayonnaise, you can lighten the calorie count by incorporating Greek yogurt or reduced-fat alternatives. Using whole grain pasta boosts fiber and nutrients, making the dish even more wholesome.
Tips for Success
To make the perfect Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Cool the pasta and chicken completely before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent the dressing from becoming greasy or watery.
- Use crisp, fresh apples such as Honeycrisp or Gala. Avoid softer varieties that may turn mushy.
- Toast your nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor and keep them crunchy.
- Dress the salad just before serving if you prefer maximum crunch, or let it chill for an hour or two to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cut ingredients uniformly to ensure every bite has a balanced mix of textures and flavors.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is highly flexible. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
- Include chopped fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon for a fresh note.
- Replace the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Incorporate red onions or scallions for a bit of bite.
- Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the dressing for a tangy upgrade.
For those looking to go dairy-free, use avocado oil mayonnaise or vegan mayo alternatives. Want a little heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Storage and Make-Ahead Notes
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is excellent for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the apples may oxidize and turn brown, tossing them with a little lemon juice helps preserve their color.
If you’re preparing this salad for a gathering, you can chop the components and mix the dressing a day ahead. Just combine everything an hour or two before serving to ensure the freshest texture.
What to Serve with Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
While this salad can certainly stand alone as a full meal, it also pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh baked bread or croissants
- A light soup, such as gazpacho or tomato basil
- A side of mixed greens or arugula with balsamic vinaigrette
- Sparkling water with lemon or white wine for an elegant touch
You can also serve it as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for a creative twist.
Why You’ll Love It
- Fast & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Flavorful & Balanced: The perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, savory, and sweet.
- Great for Leftovers: Holds up well in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to fit dietary preferences or pantry items.
- Beautiful Presentation: Bright and colorful perfect for social gatherings.
This dish is perfect for those who love classic comfort food with a fresh and modern touch. It has that Southern charm while being light enough for warm weather or health-conscious eaters.
Conclusion
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. It draws from the elegance of the original Waldorf Salad while adding heartiness and versatility through pasta and chicken. Whether you’re preparing a picnic, hosting a brunch, or simply looking for a make-ahead weekday lunch, this salad delivers flavor, nutrition, and beauty in every bite.
It’s a dish that transcends seasons, brings comfort, and impresses with its contrast of textures and flavors. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again not just because it’s easy, but because it’s unforgettable.