Summer potlucks are right around the corner and you need a winner. This Grape Salad Copycat is the refreshing side dish everyone will ask for. It is cool, creamy, and has the perfect crunch on top.
You do not even have to turn on your oven for this one. It feels like a treat but fits right next to the BBQ chicken. Your family will love the sweet, fresh flavors in every single bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy weekends. It takes very little effort to put together. You can even make it ahead of time to save stress later. It is a fantastic way to get kids to eat more fruit.
The combination of smooth cream cheese and crunchy pecans is magical. It tastes just like the famous version from Chicken Salad Chick. This dish is budget-friendly and feeds a large crowd easily.
Simple Method
Making this salad is as easy as mixing and tossing. You start by whipping up a sweet, velvety dressing. Then, you simply fold in your fresh grapes. No cooking skills are required to master this recipe.
The hardest part is waiting for it to chill in the fridge. Letting it sit helps the flavors blend together perfectly. Even a beginner cook can make this look like a restaurant-quality dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
- 2 lbs seedless red grapes, washed and thoroughly dried
- 2 lbs seedless green grapes, washed and thoroughly dried
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer until the texture is completely smooth.
- Add the washed and dried red and green grapes to the bowl. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the grapes into the dressing. Ensure every grape is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl or a 9×13 inch glass dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the dressing to set.
- In a small separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar and chopped pecans.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar and pecan topping over the chilled grapes. This keeps the pecans crunchy for your guests.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this salad chilled on a warm summer afternoon. It pairs beautifully with grilled burgers or sandwiches. You can also enjoy it as a light dessert after dinner.
Place it in a pretty glass bowl for your next potluck. The red and green colors look bright and inviting on any table. Your friends will definitely want the recipe before they leave.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. The grapes may release a little juice over time, but it still tastes great.
I do not recommend freezing this salad. The cream cheese dressing can change texture when thawed. For the best crunch, always add the pecan topping right before you eat.
Tips for Best Results
- Dry your grapes completely so the dressing sticks well.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid any lumps.
- Wait to add the topping until you are ready to serve.
- Mix red and green grapes for a beautiful color contrast.
- For a holiday twist, use toasted walnuts instead of pecans.
- Chill the salad for at least two hours for the best flavor.
- Use a rubber spatula to avoid bruising the fresh fruit.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Use sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a nut-free version.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the topping for extra warmth.
- Try using all red grapes if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the grape mixture a day early. Just keep the topping separate until you are ready to serve. This keeps the pecans from getting soft.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can use a whisk and some muscle power. Just make sure the cream cheese is very soft. Whisk until the dressing is as smooth as possible.
Will kids actually eat this?
Absolutely, kids usually love this because it tastes like a treat. The creamy dressing and sweet grapes are very picky-eater friendly. It is a total hit at family reunions.
I hope this creamy grape salad becomes a new favorite for your summer gatherings. It is so simple to make and always brings a smile to the table. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Easy Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad Copycat
Ingredients
- 2 lbs seedless red grapes, washed and thoroughly dried
- 2 lbs seedless green grapes, washed and thoroughly dried
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup pecans , finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric hand mixer on medium speed until the texture is completely smooth.
- Add the washed and dried red and green grapes to the bowl. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the grapes into the dressing until every grape is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl or a 9x13 inch glass dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to allow the dressing to set and flavors to meld.
- In a small separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar and pecan topping evenly over the chilled grape mixture to maintain the crunch of the pecans.
