McAlister’s Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish loved for its perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a hint of sweetness. It’s a fan favorite from McAlister’s Deli, known for its fresh, homemade taste. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or with crackers, this recipe lets you recreate the classic at home. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and delicious results—keep reading to make your own!
Introduction: What is Mcalister’s Chicken Salad Recipe?
McAlister’s Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender, shredded chicken with crisp celery, sweet relish, and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s a fan favorite from McAlister’s Deli, loved for its homemade taste and perfect balance of textures and flavors.
This salad is versatile—you can enjoy it as a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or as a dip with crackers. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; with just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home.
If you love McAlister’s Chicken Salad but want a homemade version that’s fresh, customizable, and budget-friendly, this recipe is for you. Let’s dive in and make it step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
McAlister’s Chicken Salad is a perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. Here’s why you’ll love making it at home:
Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together quickly. No complicated cooking techniques required!
Tastes Just Like McAlister’s
If you’re a fan of the deli’s chicken salad, this copycat version delivers the same delicious flavor and texture.
Customizable
You can adjust the ingredients to your taste—add grapes for sweetness, nuts for extra crunch, or swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well and makes for a quick lunch or snack.
Versatile Serving Options
Serve it in a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce, scoop it onto a salad, or pair it with crackers—there are so many ways to enjoy it!
Ingredients Needed
To recreate McAlister’s Chicken Salad at home, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients that blend together for the perfect texture and flavor.
Main Ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded or chopped): Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own for a homemade touch.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): The base of the dressing that gives the salad its creamy texture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Celery (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Sweet Relish (2 tablespoons): Brings a touch of sweetness and tang.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Red Grapes (½ cup, halved): Adds a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
- Chopped Pecans or Almonds (¼ cup): Provides a nutty crunch.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a slight tangy kick.
- Green Onions (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Brings a mild onion flavor without overpowering.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a Healthier Version: Swap mayo with Greek yogurt or a blend of both.
- For a Different Flavor Profile: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.
- For a Dairy-Free Option: Ensure the mayonnaise used is dairy-free.
With these ingredients, you’ll have everything needed to make a fresh, delicious, and creamy chicken salad just like McAlister’s. Now, let’s move on to the equipment needed for the recipe!
Equipment Required
Making McAlister’s Chicken Salad at home is simple and doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Equipment:
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For chopping the chicken, celery, and any optional add-ins like grapes or nuts.
- Mixing Bowls (Medium to Large): To combine all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures you get the right balance of flavors.
- Forks or Meat Shredder Claws (if using whole chicken): For shredding cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps mix the ingredients smoothly and evenly.
Optional Equipment for Convenience:
- Food Processor (Optional): If you prefer a finer texture, you can pulse the chicken a few times.
- Lemon Juicer (Optional): Makes squeezing fresh lemon juice easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious McAlister’s Chicken Salad at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
If using fresh chicken, cook it by boiling, baking, or pan-searing until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Let it cool, then shred or chop it into small pieces. Finely chop the celery, green onions (if using), and any additional mix-ins like grapes or nuts.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet relish, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
Add the shredded chicken and chopped celery to the dressing. If you’re using optional ingredients like grapes or nuts, fold them in gently to avoid crushing them. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
For the best taste, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chicken salad in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or with crackers. Enjoy it fresh and creamy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
Making McAlister’s Chicken Salad at home is simple, but a few expert tips can take it from good to great. Here’s how to make the best version:
Use the Right Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for added flavor and tenderness. If cooking from scratch, boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture. Let the chicken cool before shredding to prevent it from drying out.
Shred or Chop for the Perfect Texture
For a chunky salad, chop the chicken into small cubes. For a smoother, creamier texture, shred the chicken using forks or a food processor.
Balance the Creaminess
Use full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest result, or mix half mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Don’t overdo the mayo—start with less and add more as needed.
Let It Chill for Better Flavor
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. If making it ahead, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Customize to Your Taste
Add red grapes for sweetness and pecans or almonds for crunch. If you like a tangier taste, add a small amount of Dijon mustard. A dash of paprika or garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
Serve It the Right Way
- Classic sandwich: Serve on croissants, wheat bread, or toasted sourdough.
- Lighter option: Spoon onto lettuce wraps or a bed of fresh greens.
- Snack-style: Enjoy with crackers or as a dip with veggie sticks.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of McAlister’s Chicken Salad can help you make informed choices, whether you’re watching calories or looking for a balanced meal. Below is an estimated breakdown based on a standard serving size (about ½ cup) of homemade chicken salad:
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (½ cup):
- Calories: ~300-350 kcal
- Protein: ~20-25g
- Fat: ~20-25g
- Carbohydrates: ~5-7g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2-4g
- Sodium: ~400-600mg
Key Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, making this salad a filling and satisfying option.
- Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise and optional nuts add heart-healthy fats, especially if using avocado-based or olive oil mayo.
- Low in Carbs: A great option for low-carb or keto diets when served without bread or crackers.
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Celery and lemon juice contribute vitamins like Vitamin C and potassium, which support immune health and hydration.
Ways to Make It Healthier:
- Lower the Calories & Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or a mix of both.
- Reduce Sodium: Opt for low-sodium mayo and watch added seasonings.
- Increase Fiber: Add chopped veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra fiber and crunch.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Proper storage and serving methods ensure your McAlister’s Chicken Salad stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store leftovers and the best ways to enjoy them.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigeration:
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days when properly refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezing (Not Recommended):
While you can freeze chicken salad, the texture may change. Mayo tends to separate when thawed, making it watery. If you must freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and stir well after thawing. Best alternative: Freeze just the shredded chicken and mix fresh ingredients when ready to serve.
Signs It’s No Longer Good:
If the salad smells off, has a slimy texture, or has been sitting out for over 2 hours, discard it immediately.
Best Ways to Serve McAlister’s Chicken Salad
This chicken salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Classic Sandwich: Serve it between croissants, whole wheat, or sourdough bread for a satisfying meal.
- Low-Carb Option: Scoop onto lettuce wraps or cucumber slices for a lighter alternative.
- On a Salad: Serve over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and avocado.
- As a Snack: Enjoy with crackers, pita chips, or celery sticks as a dip.
- In a Wrap: Roll it up in a whole wheat tortilla or spinach wrap for an easy grab-and-go meal.
Conclusion
McAlister’s Chicken Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that you can easily recreate at home. With tender chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy celery, it’s the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, on a salad, or as a snack, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and great for meal prep. By following the step-by-step guide and storage tips, you can enjoy fresh, homemade chicken salad anytime. Try this recipe today and make it your own with your favorite add-ins!
FAQS
Mcalister’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken skin removed*
- ½ cup mayonnaise I used Duke's
- 1 pinch celery salt
- 1 pinch garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste I used just a little maybe a pinch or two of each
- ½ rib celery diced
- ¼ cup craisins
- 2 tablespoons pecan pieces
Instructions
- Shred your chicken and remove the skin. I used a hand mixer to easily shred it. Add the mayonnaise and seasonings. Mix well.
- Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Serve as a sandwich, with crackers, on a fresh green salad.