This Ultimate Copycat Chicken Salad Chick recipe brings together tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a mix of yummy seasonings all in one bowl. It’s creamy, tasty, and perfect for sandwiches!
You can serve it on bread or on a bed of lettuce for a fresh option. I love making a big batch so I can enjoy it all week long. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: The key ingredient here! You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or your own cooked chicken breasts. Leftover chicken works great too. For a lighter version, shredded turkey can be a fantastic substitute.
Celery: It adds crunch and freshness. If celery isn’t available, chopped bell peppers or cucumber can be used instead. They won’t replicate the flavor, but they’ll still bring in that nice texture!
Red Onion: This gives a nice sharp flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try using green onions or shallots. Sweet onions are also a good alternative for a sweeter profile.
Mayonnaise: It brings creaminess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well or even a mix of both! For vegan needs, try using an egg-free mayo.
Dijon Mustard: This adds depth to the flavor. If you’re out of Dijon, regular yellow mustard can work too. For a different twist, honey mustard can bring a touch of sweetness.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Salad Is Well-Flavored?
The secret to a delicious chicken salad lies in how you mix and season! Start by combining your chicken, celery, and red onion in a large bowl. This forms your base.
- Mix the dressing separately by whisking mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and seasonings. Aim for a smooth texture.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir well. Make sure every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasonings by adding more salt or pepper as needed.
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This makes a huge difference! It lets the flavors blend, giving you a more harmonious taste.
Ultimate Copycat Chicken Salad Chick Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped (about 2 breasts)
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you will need to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you should allow at least 45 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad Mix:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, diced celery, and finely diced red onion. Give them a good mix so they’re evenly distributed. It should start to look colorful and appetizing!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it). Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth. This dressing is what will give your chicken salad its creamy flavor!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Now, using a spoon or spatula, stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. This is where all the flavors come together!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your chicken salad. If you feel it needs a bit more salt or seasoning, don’t hesitate to adjust it to your liking. This is your dish, so make it perfect for your palate!
5. Chill the Salad:
Once everything is mixed and seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all those wonderful flavors to blend together perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After the chilling period, it’s time to enjoy! Serve the chicken salad in sandwiches, on crackers, or over a bed of greens. If you like, you can garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken salad, just like the one you love from Chicken Salad Chick!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop the meat off the bones and measure out 2 cups. It’ll be delicious in this recipe!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative or are allergic to eggs, you can use Greek yogurt or an avocado mash instead. For each cup of mayonnaise, replace it with 3/4 cup yogurt or mashed avocado. The texture will change, but it will still be creamy!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For best results, keep it covered to prevent it from drying out. Make sure to stir it gently before serving to get everything mixed up again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to personalize your chicken salad by adding ingredients like grapes, apples, nuts (like almonds or pecans), or even dried cranberries for sweetness. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings as needed to accommodate any extra ingredients.
