Do you remember your favourite meal as a child? That dinner that when your Mom put it in front of you, brought squeals of excitement. Believe it or not, for my youngest daughter that meal is a salad. More specifically a Chicken and Grape salad with her favourite poppy-seed dressing. Go figure? Kids asking for salad for supper…I’ll take it!

This chicken salad is really a full meal deal. Next time boneless, skinless chicken breasts are on sale, pick up a pack or two, cook and cube them.  You can add red or green seedless grapes.  I used green grapes the last time I made this, but red grapes do add a nice punch of colour.  A few other ingredients and dinner is ready!

The dressing in this is poppy-seed. You can use any kind or make your own, but our preference is Renee’s Poppy Seed Dressing. It costs a bit more than your other brands, but in this recipe, it makes all the difference.

Making and planning meals this time of year doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, but if you have a Summer Pantry Stock-Up List, you can whip up a salad like this with just a trip to the local market for the fresh ingredients.

We tend to eat this with some homemade bread or rolls, but it also good in a tortilla or lettuce wrap. Perfect to pack up for picnics, or a road trip.  Make a batch and store in jars for your lunches. Stays fresh and delicious.  Summer meals should be easy and light. This chicken salad had all the making of a perfect summer meal. Enjoy!