By Wendy Stoltz, Hristina Polk / Last Modified On April 9, 2023

This gluten-free chicken salad recipe is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and tangy dressing. And the best part? This recipe is super easy to make, with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy days when you want something delicious and satisfying.

If you love salad on those hot summer days, try these gluten-free salad recipes. They are full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. The white bean salad and gluten-free pasta salad offer healthy and tasty options for a main or side dish. The gluten-free garlic dill croutons combined with your choice of the best gluten-free salad dressing recipes add extra flavor and texture to any salad. This refreshing gluten-free coleslaw is a great side dish for summer barbecues.

Udemy's gluten-free cooking courses are a fantastic resource for anyone looking to expand your cooking skills and knowledge in the realm of gluten-free cooking.

Gluten-Free Chicken Salad Recipe

This gluten-free chicken salad recipe is a perfect combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The savory chicken, crisp celery, and sweet grapes are balanced by the tangy dressing, resulting in a delicious flavor profile that is sure to please.

In addition to being delicious, this chicken salad recipe is also a healthy option for anyone looking to make healthier choices. The recipe uses fresh and wholesome ingredients, and the dressing is made with healthy fats and a touch of Dijon mustard for added flavor.

What's great about this chicken salad recipe is that it's easy to make and versatile. It requires minimal prep, making it a great option for those busy weeknights or for meal prep. It can also be served in various ways, such as on gluten-free bread, in lettuce cups, or with gluten-free crackers. This versatility makes it a great option for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

Why You’re Going to Love This Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

Delicious flavor - Combining savory chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Healthy - This recipe is healthy and is a great option if you're looking to make healthier choices.

Easy to make and versatile - This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, with minimal prep. This chicken salad can be served in various ways, such as on gluten-free bread, in lettuce cups, or with gluten-free crackers.

Make-ahead - This chicken salad can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or for busy days when you want to have something healthy and delicious ready to go.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

Cooked Chicken - Provides protein and adds a savory flavor to the salad.

Celery - Adds crunch and a slightly bitter taste that complements the sweetness of the grapes.

Grapes - Provides sweetness and texture contrast to the salad.

Garlic - Adds flavor and aroma to the dressing.

Pecans - Provides crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

Green Onion - Adds a mild onion flavor and texture to the salad.

Dill - Adds a fresh, herby flavor to the salad.

Mayo - Mayo serves as the base for the dressing and adds creaminess and tanginess.

Dijon Mustard - Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor to the dressing.

Salt and Black Pepper - Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

Mixing bowl - A large mixing bowl to combine the ingredients together.

Cutting board and knife - To chop the chicken, celery, grapes, green onion, and pecans, a good quality cutting board and a sharp knife are useful.

Whisk - The whisk will mix the salad dressing ingredients together perfectly. You can also use a fork.

Spoon or spatula - Use a spatula to toss the salad ingredients together with the dressing. You can also use a spoon.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free Chicken Salad, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayo, dijon mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients to the mix and toss to combine.
3. Serve with gluten-free crackers or on gluten-free bread.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

Use high-quality cooked chicken - To make the best chicken salad; it's important to use high-quality cooked chicken. You can use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs specifically for the salad. Poaching or roasting the chicken will help it retain its moisture and flavor.

Chop the ingredients uniformly - Chop all the ingredients, including the chicken, celery, grapes, and pecans, into uniform pieces to ensure consistent texture and flavor throughout the salad.

Toast the pecans - To add an extra layer of nutty flavor and crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the salad. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.

Don't overdo the dressing - While the dressing is an important part of the chicken salad, be careful not to add too much. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more until the salad is coated to your liking. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy and overpower the other flavors.

Chill before serving - For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together further.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Chicken Salad?

Store gluten-free chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the salad chilled until ready to eat, and avoid leaving it at room temperature for too long.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Chicken Salad?

While it's technically possible to freeze chicken salad, it's not recommended as the texture and quality of the ingredients can be affected when thawed. It's best to consume chicken salad fresh or store it in the refrigerator.

Can You Make This Gluten-Free Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this gluten-free chicken salad ahead of time. Simply prepare the salad as per the recipe directions, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more as the salad chills, making it even more delicious.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in This Gluten-Free Chicken Salad?

Protein - Replace the cooked chicken with canned or cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian or vegan option.

Nuts - Swap out the pecans for sliced almonds or walnuts.

Dressing - Use Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. 

Fruit - Replace the grapes with diced apples or dried cranberries for a different flavor and texture.

Herbs - Use fresh parsley or cilantro instead of dill for a different herb flavor.

What Serving Suggestions Do You Have For This GF Chicken Salad?

• Filling - Make a sandwich by serving the chicken salad on gluten-free bread with lettuce and tomato. Use the chicken salad as a filling for lettuce wraps or rice paper rolls.
• Toppings - Top the chicken salad with sliced avocado or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for extra flavor. Use the chicken salad as a topping for a baked potato or sweet potato for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
• Sides suggestions - Serve the chicken salad alongside gluten-free crackers or sliced vegetables for a tasty and healthy snack.
• Platter - Make a chicken salad platter by arranging the chicken salad, crackers, and sliced vegetables on a serving platter.

Is Chicken Salad Gluten-Free?

It depends on the specific recipe for chicken salad. Some chicken salads may contain gluten-containing ingredients, such as bread crumbs, croutons, or certain types of dressings.

However, if you use gluten-free ingredients, then chicken salad can be made gluten-free. This recipe for a gluten-free chicken salad does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Is Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad Gluten-Free?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Costco rotisserie chicken salad is not gluten-free. According to the product label, it contains wheat as breadcrumbs. This, however, may change, so as always, check the product labels.

Is Walmart Deli Chicken Salad Gluten-Free?

The Walmart Deli All White Meat Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Almonds is not gluten-free. So the answer is it depends on which Walmart Deli chicken salad you buy, as there are different options.

It's best to check the product label or inquire with the deli staff to determine if the chicken salad is gluten-free. 

Continue to Content

Yield: 4 servings

Gluten-Free Chicken Salad

Print

This gluten-free chicken salad recipe is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and tangy dressing. This recipe is super easy to make with minimal prep time.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 Cups Cooked Chicken, cubed
• 2 sticks Celery, chopped
• ½ Cup Grapes, chopped
• 1 tbsp Garlic, minced
• ¼ Cup Pecans, sliced
• 1 Green Onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp Dill, chopped
• ¾ Cup Mayo
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl combine the mayo, dijon mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients to the mix and toss to combine.
3. Serve with gluten-free crackers or on gluten-free bread.
   

Notes

• For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving.

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  ChefAide 4 Pieces Silicone Spatula Set, Food Grade Rubber Spatula, Upgrade Strong Handle with Ergonomic Grip, Heat Resistant Up to 600°F for Nonstick Cookware, Cooking Baking Mixing

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 590Total Fat: 55gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 43gCholesterol: 87mgSodium: 1031mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 1gSugar: 4gProtein: 18g

This nutrition info is based on the exact ingredients and brands used at the time. It may not be 100% accurate. Please check your ingredients nutrition labels.