Get ready to transport your taste buds to flavor heaven with this mouthwatering Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad that's so delicious, you'll forget you're not sitting in the actual restaurant! Imagine creamy, perfectly seasoned shredded chicken nestled between toasty rolls, packed with tangy pickle relish and a hint of lemon - all made in just 25 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, weekend meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing sandwich that'll have everyone asking for your secret recipe, this homemade version is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dill pickle relish
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sandwich rolls
Instructions
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked and cooled. If using fresh chicken, poach or grill chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165°F, then allow to cool completely before shredding.
- Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into small, uniform pieces, ensuring no large chunks remain.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, and finely diced celery. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Add fresh lemon juice to the mixture, which will brighten the flavor and help prevent browning of the chicken.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to incorporate all seasonings.
- Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This resting time will enhance the overall taste profile.
- When ready to serve, lightly toast the sandwich rolls to add texture and warmth.
- Generously spoon the chilled chicken salad onto each toasted roll, ensuring an even distribution.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Chick-fil-A style chicken salad.
Tips
- Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture. Poaching or grilling ensures moist, tender meat.
- Allow chicken to cool completely before shredding to prevent moisture loss and maintain a great consistency.
- Dice celery finely to distribute flavor evenly and provide a subtle crunch.
- Refrigerating the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes helps ingredients meld and intensifies the overall taste.
- Toast sandwich rolls lightly to add a delightful textural contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like dill or chives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
