Costco Chicken Salad is a favorite among food lovers for its perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and convenience. Made with tender shredded chicken and a creamy dressing, it’s a versatile dish that works for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a quick lunch, this recipe delivers every time. Dive into this guide to discover how to recreate Costco’s signature chicken salad, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it uniquely yours!

Table of Contents

Introduction to Costco Chicken Salad Recipe

What is Costco Chicken Salad?

Costco Chicken Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish that has become a staple in households and gatherings alike. Known for its satisfying texture and savory taste, it’s made with shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and a mix of fresh ingredients that create a harmonious balance of flavors. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to option for busy days or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish.

Why This Recipe is So Popular

The popularity of Costco Chicken Salad stems from its adaptability and quality. Here’s why people love it:

Convenience: It’s easy to prepare and even easier to buy pre-made from Costco stores.
Customizability: You can adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences or incorporate personal touches.
Versatility: Serve it as a sandwich filling, on a bed of greens, or as a dip with crackers.
Nutritional Value: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, it’s a healthier choice for many.

Ingredients Overview

Key Ingredients for Costco Chicken Salad

The foundation of Costco Chicken Salad lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Chicken: Tender shredded chicken is the star ingredient. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, but boiled or baked chicken breasts can also be used.
Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base and binds the ingredients together. Opt for full-fat mayo for richness, or choose a low-fat alternative for a lighter version.
Celery: Adds crunch and freshness to balance the creaminess. Dice it finely for an even texture.
Onion (Optional): Red or green onions can give a subtle sharpness, enhancing the overall flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and a touch of garlic powder are standard. Feel free to adjust these based on your taste preferences.

Herbs, Spices, and Dressings That Work Well

To elevate the flavor profile, you can incorporate:

Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or chives can add a burst of freshness.
Spices: Paprika, cayenne, or a dash of curry powder can give the salad an exciting twist.
Dressings: While mayonnaise is the classic choice, you can experiment with Greek yogurt or a mix of mayo and Dijon mustard for a tangy variation.

Variations and Optional Exotic Ingredients

Make this recipe your own by adding unique touches:

Nuts and Seeds: Sliced almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch.
Fruits: Diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries introduce a sweet contrast.
Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can provide extra richness.

Why These Ingredients Work

Each ingredient plays a role in the salad’s overall appeal:

The chicken provides protein and substance.
The mayonnaise and seasonings tie everything together with creaminess and flavor.
The celery and optional mix-ins enhance texture and taste, ensuring every bite is enjoyable.

Nutritional Benefits of Costco Chicken Salad

Costco Chicken Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutritional benefits that make it a great choice for various diets. Here’s an in-depth look at why it’s a healthy and balanced option:

Protein Content and Health Benefits

High-Protein Meal: The shredded chicken provides a rich source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Satiety: Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking and aiding in weight management.

Low in Carbohydrates

Keto-Friendly: With minimal carbs, this salad fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic diets.
Blood Sugar Stability: Low-carb meals can help maintain steady blood sugar levels, making it a great choice for those managing diabetes.

Vitamins and Minerals

Chicken: Contains B vitamins, especially B3 (niacin) and B6, which support energy production and brain health.
Celery: Adds fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants that promote bone health and reduce inflammation.
Optional Add-Ins: Fruits, nuts, and herbs can enhance the vitamin C, iron, and magnesium content.

Heart Health Benefits

Healthy Fats: When made with quality mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, the salad provides monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health.
Cholesterol Management: Using lean chicken helps keep saturated fat levels moderate, promoting better cholesterol balance.

Energy and Overall Wellness

Energy Boost: The combination of protein and healthy fats provides a steady energy release, perfect for busy days.
Digestive Support: Optional fiber-rich ingredients like celery and nuts aid digestion and promote gut health.

Customizability for Specific Needs

Weight Loss Goals: Use low-fat mayo or substitute with Greek yogurt to reduce calorie content.
Vegan or Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for plant-based protein options.
Allergy-Friendly: Customize the ingredients to avoid allergens like nuts or dairy.

Summary of Nutritional Highlights

Costco Chicken Salad combines the following:

High protein for satiety and muscle support.
Low carbohydrates for energy balance and diet flexibility.
Vitamins and minerals for overall health.
Healthy fats that nourish the heart and brain.

Preparation Tips

Making Costco Chicken Salad at home is straightforward, but a few preparation tips can take your recipe to the next level. From shredding the chicken perfectly to choosing the best ingredients, here’s everything you need to know.

How to Shred Chicken Breasts Easily

Shredded chicken is the star of the dish, and achieving the right texture is key:

Boil or Bake the Chicken: Cook chicken breasts until they’re tender and easy to handle.
Shred with a Fork: Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into fine strands.
Use a Mixer: For a faster method, place the cooked chicken in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, and let it shred in seconds.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: If short on time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Remove the skin, debone, and shred the meat by hand or with a fork.

Can You Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option for its convenience and flavor:

Why It Works: The meat is already cooked, tender, and seasoned, saving time and effort.
How to Adjust Seasonings: Be mindful that rotisserie chicken may be saltier, so adjust the amount of added salt in your recipe.

Key Tips for Perfect Chicken Texture

Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked chicken can become dry and chewy, making it harder to shred and less enjoyable to eat.
Cool Before Shredding: Let the chicken cool slightly after cooking. Shredding warm chicken is easier, but not when it’s too hot to handle.
Consistent Shreds: Try to shred the chicken evenly to ensure a uniform texture throughout the salad.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh celery, herbs, and any mix-ins to enhance the flavor and crunch.
Quality Mayonnaise: Opt for a good-quality mayo for a creamy texture. Alternatively, experiment with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Balancing Flavors: Start with small amounts of salt, pepper, and spices, then adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away.

Preparing Ahead of Time

Batch Cooking: Cook and shred a large amount of chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meal prep.
Pre-Chop Ingredients: Chop celery, onions, or other add-ins in advance and store them in airtight containers to save time.

Special Tools for Easy Preparation

Sharp Knife: For precise chopping of ingredients.
Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl to combine all ingredients easily.
Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning and proportions.
Food Processor (Optional): For evenly chopping larger batches of ingredients.

Recipe Directions

Creating Costco Chicken Salad at home is simple and straightforward. Follow this step-by-step guide for a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured salad that rivals the original.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the basic recipe:

2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie, boiled, or baked).
½ cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste).
½ cup diced celery for crunch.
1-2 tablespoons diced red onion (optional, for added flavor).
1 teaspoon lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
Salt and pepper to taste.

Optional Add-Ins:

Chopped herbs like parsley or dill.
A pinch of garlic powder or paprika.
Fruits like diced apples or grapes for sweetness.
Crumbled nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cook and Shred: If not using pre-cooked chicken, boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let cool slightly, then shred using forks, your hands, or a mixer.
Adjust Texture: Ensure the shreds are even and fine, so the salad mixes smoothly.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs

Dice the Celery: Cut celery into small, even pieces to maintain a uniform texture in the salad.
Chop Optional Add-Ins: If using onions, herbs, or fruits, chop them finely to ensure they blend seamlessly into the mix.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Fold in celery, onions (if using), and any optional add-ins. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
Taste Test: Adjust the seasoning, mayo, or add-ins based on your preference.

Step 5: Chill the Salad

Place the finished salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

As a Sandwich: Spread it between slices of bread or in a croissant for a quick meal.
On a Bed of Greens: Serve it atop lettuce or mixed greens for a lighter option.
As a Snack: Pair it with crackers, pita chips, or cucumber slices for a refreshing appetizer.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Consistency Matters: Stir the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Customizations: Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste, from adding a touch of mustard to experimenting with spice levels.
Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of Costco Chicken Salad is its versatility. With a few tweaks, you can tailor the recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some creative variations and customizations to try:

Alternative Ingredients

Greek Yogurt Substitute: Replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version.
Avocado Mash: Use mashed avocado as a creamy, nutrient-packed alternative to mayo.
Mustard Blend: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon or whole-grain mustard for added zing.
Rotisserie or Smoked Chicken: Swap traditional shredded chicken with rotisserie or smoked chicken for a deeper flavor profile.

Flavor Enhancements

Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, basil, or chives to enhance freshness.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes for a kick of heat.
Tangy Twists: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or pickle juice for a tangy contrast.
Sweet Notes: Incorporate diced apples, halved grapes, or dried cranberries to balance savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.

Crunchy Additions

Nuts and Seeds: Add slivered almonds, chopped pecans, or sunflower seeds for crunch and nuttiness.
Vegetable Crunch: Include diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cucumbers for added texture.

Protein and Fiber Boosts

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Chop and mix in hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and richness.
Legumes: Add a handful of chickpeas, edamame, or black beans for more fiber and plant-based protein.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

Low-Calorie Option: Use low-fat mayonnaise or a combination of yogurt and mustard.
Low-Carb Variation: Skip sweet ingredients like fruits or sweetened dressings, and add more greens or herbs.
Vegan Version: Replace chicken with shredded jackfruit, mashed chickpeas, or cubed tofu. Use vegan mayo for creaminess.
Allergy-Friendly: Substitute nuts with seeds if nut allergies are a concern, and ensure all ingredients are free from allergens.

Regional and Global Twists

Mediterranean Style: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Asian-Inspired: Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped scallions. Top with toasted sesame seeds.
Mexican Flavor: Incorporate lime juice, cumin, diced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips.

Presentation Variations

Wraps and Rolls: Use the salad as a filling for lettuce wraps, tortillas, or spring roll sheets.
Stuffed Vegetables: Fill hollowed-out bell peppers, avocados, or tomatoes with the salad for a visually stunning dish.
Layered Dish: Create a layered salad in a jar for a portable, meal-prep-friendly option.

Tips for Customizing

Taste as You Go: Add ingredients gradually and taste along the way to find your perfect balance of flavors.
Mind the Ratios: Adjust mayo or other binders to maintain the creamy consistency.
Season Last: Always add salt and spices at the end to avoid over-seasoning as flavors meld during chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Costco Chicken Salad is not just versatile in preparation but also in how you can serve it. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a hearty meal, or an elegant presentation for guests, this salad fits the bill. Here are some creative and classic serving ideas to inspire you.

Classic Serving Ideas

On a Sandwich:

Use soft sandwich bread, toasted slices, or buttery croissants to create a filling and satisfying meal. Add lettuce, tomato, or a slice of cheese for extra flavor and texture.

With Crackers or Chips:

Serve the salad as a dip with your favorite crackers, pita chips, or tortilla chips. Opt for whole-grain crackers for a healthier twist.

Over a Bed of Greens:

Transform the salad into a low-carb meal by serving it over fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

In a Wrap or Pita:

Spoon the salad into a whole-grain tortilla or pita pocket for a quick and portable meal. Add crunchy vegetables like shredded carrots or cucumbers for added freshness.

Elegant Presentation for Entertaining

Stuffed Vegetables:

Fill hollowed-out bell peppers, tomatoes, or avocados with the salad for a stunning and edible presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a polished look.

Individual Servings:

Serve the salad in small cups or on appetizer spoons for a bite-sized party treat. Pair with crackers or breadsticks for dipping.

Platter Presentation:

Arrange the salad in the center of a large platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers, raw vegetables, and cheese for a DIY appetizer board.

Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas

Slider Buns:

Use mini slider buns to create bite-sized chicken salad sandwiches that are perfect for kids.

Lettuce Wraps:

For a fun and mess-free option, let kids wrap the salad in large lettuce leaves.

Dip with Veggies:

Serve the salad as a dip with carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips for a healthy snack.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Summer Picnic Style:

Pair the salad with fresh fruit like watermelon slices or berries for a refreshing summer meal.

Winter Comfort:

Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or a bowl of soup for a comforting winter lunch.

Pairing Ideas for Balanced Meals

Soups:

Pair the chicken salad with a light soup like tomato basil or a hearty option like lentil soup for a complete meal.

Side Dishes:

Serve with a simple side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a baked sweet potato for a nutrient-rich meal.

Beverages:

Complement the salad with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.

Tips for Serving

Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Garnish for Appeal: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of paprika, or a few nuts on top to make the presentation more appealing.
Portion Accordingly: Adjust portion sizes based on how the salad is served—smaller for appetizers, larger for main meals.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftover Costco Chicken Salad properly ensures it stays fresh and safe to eat for a few days. With the right techniques, you can maintain its flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy it later. Here’s everything you need to know about storing and preserving leftovers.

Best Practices for Storing Costco Chicken Salad

Use an Airtight Container:

After serving, immediately transfer any leftover salad into an airtight container. This helps keep the salad from drying out and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Glass containers are ideal as they don’t absorb odors and are less likely to stain compared to plastic containers.

Refrigerate Promptly:

Always store the chicken salad in the fridge within 2 hours of preparation or serving to prevent bacterial growth. It’s best to keep it at a consistent temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower.

How Long Can You Store Costco Chicken Salad?

In the Refrigerator:

When stored properly, Costco Chicken Salad should be eaten within 3-4 days for the best taste and safety. After this time, the salad may start to lose its flavor and texture. The mayo or dressing could also break down, leading to a watery consistency.

In the Freezer (Optional):

While chicken itself freezes well, the creamy texture of mayonnaise or yogurt doesn’t always hold up well to freezing. Freezing may cause the salad to separate and become watery once thawed. If you must freeze it, keep the dressing separate from the chicken and other ingredients. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chicken and mix with fresh mayo or yogurt before serving.

How to Refresh Leftovers

Add More Dressing:

If the salad feels dry after storing, add a little extra mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back the creamy consistency.

Season to Taste:

After refrigeration, the flavors may mellow. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up.

Add Fresh Elements:

If some of the crunchy ingredients like celery or nuts have softened, consider adding a fresh batch to the salad before serving again for extra texture.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad Ingredients Separately

If you’ve made extra chicken or other components of the salad, consider storing them separately:

Chicken: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Dressings: Keep any leftover dressing in a separate container, as it may absorb into the chicken and vegetables, making them soggy.
Add-Ins: Store fresh vegetables and fruits separately to prevent them from wilting or losing their texture in the salad.

Preventing Leftovers from Going Bad

Keep Portions Small:

Store the salad in smaller, more manageable portions. This makes it easier to serve without repeatedly exposing the entire batch to air, which can cause spoilage.

Avoid Repeatedly Warming and Cooling:

If you need to reheat chicken salad (though it’s typically served cold), only reheat the portion you’ll be consuming. Don’t refreeze or reheat multiple times.

Signs the Chicken Salad Has Gone Bad

If your chicken salad has been stored for a few days, check for the following signs to determine if it’s still safe to eat:

Off Smell: If the salad smells sour or rancid, it’s best to discard it.
Discoloration or Separation: If the dressing has separated into watery liquid, or if there’s noticeable color change, the salad may have gone past its prime.
Slime or Slimy Texture: If the salad appears slimy or has an unusual texture, it’s time to throw it out.

How to Avoid It:

Stick to the basic ingredients that define the recipe: chicken, mayo (or a similar binder), celery, and a bit of seasoning. Feel free to add some customizations, but keep the flavors simple and harmonious.

Conclusion

Costco Chicken Salad is a delicious, versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a special gathering, or meal prep, it offers endless possibilities for flavor variations and serving ideas. By following the simple steps, avoiding common mistakes, and storing it properly, you can enjoy this tasty and nutritious salad for days. With its combination of fresh ingredients, creamy texture, and savory flavors, Costco Chicken Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get started and create your own version of this beloved salad!

FAQS

What is Costco chicken made of?

Costco's rotisserie chicken is made from whole chickens that are seasoned with a blend of spices and then slow-cooked. The chicken is typically enhanced with a combination of ingredients like salt, spices, and natural flavors. It’s important to note that Costco uses no added hormones or antibiotics in their chicken.

Where is Costco chicken salad?

Costco's chicken salad is usually found in the refrigerated section of their stores. It's typically located near the deli area or the pre-packaged meals. It’s made with chunks of cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and other ingredients, and is available in large tubs.

Why is Costco chicken so good?

Costco's rotisserie chicken is praised for its high-quality taste and juiciness. This is because the chickens are cooked fresh, and the seasoning adds a lot of flavor without being overpowering. The chickens are slow-cooked to retain moisture, and Costco uses a special cooking process to ensure they’re consistently tender.

Is chicken salad actually healthy?

Chicken salad can be healthy depending on the ingredients. The base of chicken provides protein, and adding vegetables like celery or apples can boost its nutritional value. However, if the salad is made with a large amount of mayonnaise or creamy dressings, it can be high in calories and fat. Using lighter dressings or adding healthier ingredients like Greek yogurt or avocado can make it a healthier option.

Will I lose weight if I just eat chicken and salad?

Eating just chicken and salad could lead to weight loss if you are in a calorie deficit (eating fewer calories than your body needs). However, it's essential to ensure your diet is balanced with a variety of nutrients to maintain overall health. A diet consisting only of chicken and salad might lack essential nutrients like fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. It's best to eat a variety of foods to ensure nutritional needs are met.

What is the healthiest salad to eat?

The healthiest salad to eat includes a variety of fresh vegetables, lean protein (like grilled chicken or tofu), healthy fats (such as avocado or nuts), and a light dressing (such as olive oil and vinegar). A salad with dark leafy greens like spinach or kale, colorful veggies like tomatoes, peppers, and carrots, along with some added fiber and protein, can provide a nutritious, balanced meal. Keep the dressing light to avoid unnecessary calories.

Costco Chicken Salad Recipe

Discover the delicious and easy-to-make Costco chicken salad recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this creamy and flavorful salad combines tender chicken with fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Main Course, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 ¼ pounds cooked chicken see Notes
1 32- ounce carton or chicken stock
1 ¼ cup plus more to taste
2 cups finely diced celery
¾ cup finely minced sweet onion
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or use 2 teaspoons Everything Seasoning see Notes
1 ½-2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

Cook the chicken: place the chicken breasts in a wide skillet and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer; cover and cook about 20-25 minutes or until chicken breasts are cooked through and reach 160º F internally. Remove from skillet but reserve broth.
Alternately, use 2 ¼ pounds (36 ounces) cooked chicken with the skin removed.
Shred the chicken using your selected method from Notes.
Place all ingredients but chicken broth in a large bowl (mayonnaise, celery, sweet onion, salt, and black pepper) and stir together.
Add chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, to the mixture until the desired texture and creaminess is reached. I use about 4-6 tablespoons of chicken broth. Add more mayo to taste, if desired.

Keyword chicken salad, chicken salad recipe, Costco Chicken Salad Recipe