Zoe’s Chicken Salad (Copycat Recipe)

Chicken salad is a staple dish for summertime picnics, family get-togethers, or a quick lunch packed with flavor! The best part, you can make this Zoë’s Kitchen favorite right from your own kitchen with tasty ingredients you love and know.

Zoë’s Kitchen Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is something we all find a craving for, let’s be honest, that’s why you’re here. No shame here though, that’s why I had to recreate this salad for myself!

Then to add the fact that this salad only requires one large mixing bowl and a spoon? Talk about easy clean-up for lunch or dinner.

I am always reaching towards this recipe when I’m in a rush and need something filling.

Don’t just take my word, I am sure after making this easy recipe once, you will be in the same boat as me! This light and healthy salad is one of my favorites!

Right next to my Chicken Macaroni Salad or a Classic Chicken Salad!

Ingredients Needed

Shredded Chicken Breasts – I prefer white meat but use your favorite. If you have any leftover rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken thighs they work great!

Mayo – As you know I love Duke’s mayonnaise, but feel free to substitute for other mayos. Fat-free mayo will do just fine here, but don’t opt for Miracle Whip.

Diced Celery – Substitute for red onion or leave out all together.

How to Make Zoe’s Chicken Salad Recipe

First: Shred 3 cups of chicken, and dice your celery for ¼ of a cup.

Second: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, and the mayo. Season with salt and pepper or to taste.

Third: Mix until all ingredients are coated. Spread on bread for a refreshing sandwich, or dip with crackers for a filling snack!

For the full recipe and detailed baking instructions, please see the recipe card at the end of this post.

Variations

Chicken salad is so versatile that it is the perfect salad to go crazy with. Adding hard boiled eggs to this recipe is a great way to pack a powerful punch of protein– now say that five times fast.

If you are looking for some extra pizazz, try adding finely diced dill pickle, diced onions (of any variety), grapes, pecans, dried cranberries, or even strips of sweet potato. Have fun with it and experiment with the sweet side! 

Serving Suggestions

Although chicken salad on its own is more than capable of being your main dish, you can dress it up or down.

Plate the chicken salad with bread for a filling sandwich, serve it with side dishes, or make it an appetizer for your next cookout with fried pita chips, kettle chips, dill pickles, or bell pepper slices.

Can I substitute celery?

Celery isn’t everyone’s favorite vegetable, so if you’re getting nervous seeing celery here, fear not! Substitute celery for another favorite vegetable like cucumbers, carrots, radishes, or even apples.

Tips for No Leftovers

• Before combining, I chill my chicken so it is ready to serve.
• If storing, store in an air-tight container for no longer than a week.
• If serving after it has been stored, give the salad a quick mix and serve it with a fresh sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• Don’t bother attempting to freeze this; it will ruin the consistency. Instead, cook and shred your chicken, throw it in the freezer and pull it out whenever you’re craving Zoe’s chicken salad.

Looking for more leftover worthy dishes? Follow LTB on Pinterest and pin to a board!

Zoe’s Chicken Salad couldn’t taste any better than it coming straight from your own kitchen. Lunch and dinner have never been easier with just one bowl, or taste this refreshing with just one bite!

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