Creamy Cashew Chicken Salad Recipe with Roasted Cashews

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Fresh, crunchy, and perfectly balanced, Cashew Chicken Salad is a vibrant blend of lean protein, nutty crunch, and sweet bursts of fruit that makes for an ideal lunch, light dinner, or meal-prep favorite. This version combines shredded chicken, roasted cashews, celery, grapes (or apples), and green onions, all tied together with a creamy yet light dressing made with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice.

What sets this chicken salad apart is the satisfying texture and contrast of flavors. The cashews add richness and crunch, the grapes lend a juicy sweetness, and the celery and onions offer a fresh bite. This balance makes it both refreshing and filling without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s incredibly flexible—serve it over mixed greens, in lettuce wraps, or tucked into a sandwich.

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity and nutrient profile. By using cooked chicken breast as the base, it keeps things high in protein and low in unnecessary carbs or sugar. According to Wikipedia, chicken breast is a widely favored protein source due to its leanness and versatility in countless cuisines. Paired with roasted cashews—which are rich in healthy fats and minerals—this salad becomes a satisfying option for those following low-carb, paleo, or gluten-free lifestyles.

For more healthy and protein-rich salad ideas, browse this Pinterest board of healthy chicken recipes or get inspired by other cashew-based dishes to explore new variations.

Creamy Cashew Chicken Salad Recipe with Roasted Cashews

This Cashew Chicken Salad is a creamy, crunchy blend of shredded chicken, roasted cashews, crisp celery, and juicy grapes, all tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. Perfect as a low-carb lunch, wrap filling, or salad topper, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish for any occasion.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the salad:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
  • ½ cup roasted cashews roughly chopped
  • ½ cup celery finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup red grapes halved (or diced apple as an alternative)
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion finely diced (optional)
  • 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce for serving
  • For the dressing:
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cashews, celery, grapes, green onions, and red onion if using.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined and evenly coated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for 15–30 minutes if time allows.
  5. Serve on a bed of greens, in lettuce cups, or as a sandwich filling.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version of the dressing.
  • Chill before serving to allow flavors to blend.
  • Substitute grapes with apples or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
  • Double the batch for meal prep or parties—this salad is always a hit.
 
 

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