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Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Here’s what you’ll need for my Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad:; 4 wheat Whole sandwich bread: slices; 2 green Crisp leaf lettuce: cups; Creamy mayonnaise: ⅔ cup; 2 cooked Diced chicken: cups; 1 eggs: Hard-boiled 1 – 2, peeled and chopped; Chopped celery: ⅓ cup; Tangy sweet pickle relish: ¼ – ⅓ cup; 2 lemon Fresh juice: teaspoons; Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon; Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon; 2 parsley: Fresh tablespoons

Kathleen Looney October 7, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When I think about my favorite summer meals, one dish that consistently makes the cut is chicken salad. It’s versatile, satisfying, and just downright delicious. But what really gets me excited about this particular recipe is how it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that take this meal from good to extraordinary.

Think fresh fruit salad, crispy potato chips, or even a cold pasta salad. Each side adds a delightful crunch or sweetness that complements the creamy goodness of the chicken salad. On a hot day, a scoop of this chicken salad atop a bed of mixed greens or in a soft whole wheat sandwich is quite simply magic.

Why This Recipe Rocks

Now, let’s dive into why this Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad has become a staple in my kitchen. One of the main reasons is that it combines those classic flavors you love with the ease of preparation you crave. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just trying to make your busy weekday evenings a little smoother, this recipe shines. It requires minimal ingredients and time while packing a nutritional punch, making it a winner all around.

This dish embodies that homemade comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Plus, unlike some restaurant versions, you get the benefit of knowing exactly what’s in it. Made with wholesome ingredients, each bite offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. I often use this recipe to show off my skills to friends while also keeping it simple. You can whip it up in no time, and I can assure you, it will be the talk of the table.

My Experience with the Ingredients

As I looked at my kitchen pantry, I realized I had everything I needed to recreate that beloved chicken salad sensation. The goodness starts with whole wheat sandwich bread that forms the perfect base when spread with the creamy salad. Crisp green leaf lettuce adds that refreshing crunch, ensuring each bite is lively. I always keep creamy mayonnaise on hand; it provides that luscious texture that wraps everything together.

When it comes to chicken, I opt for diced cooked chicken. I prefer to roast or grill my chicken beforehand, letting the flavors shine through while being healthy. I usually have hard-boiled eggs in my fridge as they add protein while elevating the creamy texture. A touch of finely chopped celery brings a satisfying crunch, while tangy sweet pickle relish gives an unexpected kick—trust me, it’s a game-changer!

I add fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up, not to mention the sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper for that extra layer of flavor. Finally, a handful of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, tying everything together beautifully.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for my Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad:

Whole wheat sandwich bread: 4 slices
Crisp green leaf lettuce: 2 cups
Creamy mayonnaise: ⅔ cup
Diced cooked chicken: 2 cups (cooled)
Hard-boiled eggs: 1 – 2, peeled and chopped
Chopped celery: ⅓ cup (finely chopped)
Tangy sweet pickle relish: ¼ – ⅓ cup
Fresh lemon juice: 2 teaspoons
Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped)

How to Make “Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad”

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The first thing before you start cooking is to have everything in one spot. Make sure your chicken is cooked and cooled to save some time. A simple roast or grill works perfectly, and you can even go for rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry. You’ll need a mixing bowl and a chopping board ready to go!

Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients

Grab your mixing bowl and toss in the diced chicken. Next comes the chopped hard-boiled eggs. They can be prepared ahead of time and added to your salad as a protein booster. Add the finely chopped celery, and then mix in the tangy sweet pickle relish. Make sure all of that delicious chicken goodness is in there.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together the creamy mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This dressing is vital; it holds everything together. Pour it over the chicken salad mix and stir gently but thoroughly until every ingredient is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley

Toss in those green flecks of parsley. Not only do they add flavor, but they also make the salad visually appealing. Give everything one last gentle stir.

Step 5: Prepare Your Bread

While your chicken salad is resting, lay out your whole wheat sandwich bread. You can toast it lightly if you prefer a warm crunch, but it’s equally delightful without.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwich

Layer some crisp green leaf lettuce on top of each slice of bread. Spoon generous amounts of your chicken salad on top, creating a mountain of deliciousness. Top with another slice of bread, cut in half for easy handling (and a more Instagram-worthy presentation).

Nutrition Information

Recipe Notes

Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread: This bread is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier option than white bread. It also holds up nicely against the creamy filling.
Crisp Green Leaf Lettuce: A delightful crunch that brightens each bite. It brings freshness and is low in calories while adding bulk.
Creamy Mayonnaise: The star that blends everything together. If you want to make it lighter, consider opting for a low-fat version or Greek yogurt.
Diced Cooked Chicken: You can use any leftover chicken. Grilled, roasted, or even poached works. Just be sure it’s cooled for the best texture in the salad.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These elevate the salad’s nutrition profile and enhance the creaminess. They also add a beautiful contrast to the salad’s look.
Chopped Celery: For that remarkably satisfying crunch, celery is unbeatable. It is high in water content, adding juiciness to the mix.
Tangy Sweet Pickle Relish: This relish adds the needed zing. You can adjust the amount based on how sweet or tangy you want the salad.
Fresh Lemon Juice: This adds brightness to your dish and balances the creaminess. Freshly squeezed is always best!
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Feel free to adjust these to your personal taste.
Fresh Parsley: This herb adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color. You may swap it for dill if you prefer a different herbal note.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is flexible. Here are a few variations I’ve enjoyed:

Spicy Twist: Add a tablespoon of Sriracha or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Crunchy Additions: Toss in some diced bell peppers or chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap mayonnaise for avocado for a healthier fat option.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh dill or chives if you’re not a fan of parsley.
Fruit Addition: Chopped apples or grapes can provide a sweet contrast to the savory notes.
Dairy Boost: A sprinkle of shredded cheese can elevate the dish.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad recipe has become a comforting go-to in my household. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a reflection of sweet summer days filled with laughter and flavorful bites. With just a handful of nourishing ingredients, you can impress guests or simply enjoy a wholesome meal at home.

Feel free to make it your own with the variations I’ve shared, and enjoy the process. Cooking should be fun, not a chore. I hope this dish becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen, bringing friends and family together for many delicious bites to come. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Salad

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 426

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Now, let's dive into why this Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad has become a staple in my kitchen. One of the main reasons is that it combines those classic flavors you love with the ease of preparation you crave. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or just trying to make your busy weekday evenings a little smoother, this recipe shines. It requires minimal ingredients and time while packing a nutritional punch, making it a winner all around.