I’m thrilled to share a spot-on copycat of the Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe, a dish that’s won hearts at potlucks and family gatherings. This salad blends crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a sweet-tangy dressing that’s light yet flavorful.
It’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast at any table. After tweaking and tasting, I’ve nailed down a version that’s as close to the original as it gets.
What makes this recipe special is its balance of textures and flavors, all while being simple to whip up. Whether you’re a fan of the restaurant’s version or just love a fresh, vibrant salad, this guide will walk you through every step. Let’s dive into why this dish is a crowd-pleaser and how you can make it at home.
Why People Love This Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad
This broccoli salad is a standout for its fresh, crunchy bite and bold flavors. The combination of broccoli, cheese, and bacon feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s versatile enough for barbecues, holidays, or weeknight dinners.
The sweet vinegar-based dressing ties it all together without being heavy. Unlike mayo-heavy salads, this one feels lighter but still satisfying. Fans of Chicken Salad Chick rave about its perfect balance.
It’s also a make-ahead dream, tasting even better after chilling. You can prep it in advance for stress-free entertaining. Plus, it’s customizable for dietary needs, making it a hit with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe, gather these simple ingredients. They’re easy to find and create that signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for about 6 servings.
- Broccoli: 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Bacon: 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced for a mild bite.
- Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup for a touch of sweetness.
- Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup, hulled and roasted for crunch.
- Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon water.
Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Pre-shredded cheese saves time, but freshly grated melts better into the salad. Adjust cranberries or seeds to your taste.
Kitchen Tools Required
You don’t need fancy equipment to make this salad. Basic kitchen tools will do the job. Here’s what to have on hand.
- A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
- A small bowl for whisking the dressing.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping broccoli and onion.
- A whisk or fork for blending the dressing.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- A skillet or oven for cooking bacon, if not pre-cooked.
A salad spinner can help dry the broccoli after washing. If you’re making a big batch, a larger bowl makes mixing easier.
How to Make Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad
This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, plus chilling time. Follow these steps for a perfect salad. Each step is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces, discarding thick stems. Pat dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
Cook the bacon until crispy in a skillet or oven. Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside to add later.
Step 3: Dice the Red Onion
Finely dice the red onion to avoid overpowering the salad. Aim for small, uniform pieces for even distribution. Place in the large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Shred the Cheese
If using a block of cheddar, grate it using a medium grater. Pre-shredded cheese works fine too. Add to the mixing bowl with the onion.
Step 5: Combine Salad Ingredients
Add the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds to the bowl. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly. Ensure the cheese is distributed throughout.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 7: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Make sure the dressing reaches every piece.
Step 8: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld and enhances the taste. For best results, chill for 1–2 hours.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual portions. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds, if desired.
Nutritional Information
This salad is nutritious while feeling indulgent. The table below shows approximate values for a 1-cup serving, based on 6 servings total. Always double-check with your own calculator for precision.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
Broccoli provides fiber and vitamin C, while bacon and cheese add protein. The dressing contributes most of the sugar and fat. Adjust portion sizes for dietary needs.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad
These tips will elevate your Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe. They’re simple but make a big difference.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli stays crisp and holds up better than frozen. Avoid overcooking or blanching to maintain crunch.
- Balance the Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad sit in the fridge melds the flavors. Overnight chilling works great for next-day serving.
- Customize Add-Ins: Swap cranberries for raisins or sunflower seeds for almonds. Keep the total volume similar for balance.
- Cook Bacon Crispy: Crispy bacon adds better texture than chewy. Drain excess grease to avoid an oily salad.
For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of some mayonnaise. If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe but mix in batches for even coating.
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines as a side dish or light meal. Here are ideas to make it a star at your table.
- Pair with Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or pork for a summery meal. The salad’s tanginess complements smoky flavors.
- Add to a Buffet: Place it on a potluck spread with sliders or sandwiches. It holds up well at room temperature for a couple of hours.
- Make It a Main Dish: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a hearty lunch. Serve over greens for extra freshness.
- Holiday Side: Include it at Thanksgiving or Christmas for a vibrant, non-traditional side. Its colors pop on festive tables.
- Picnic Perfect: Pack in an airtight container for picnics. Keep it chilled in a cooler to maintain quality.
For a fun twist, serve in small mason jars for individual portions. Check out Chicken Salad Chick’s menu for more pairing inspiration.
Storing and Making Ahead
This salad stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Press plastic wrap against the surface to prevent oxidation.
Avoid freezing, as the mayonnaise-based dressing and broccoli lose texture. If prepping ahead, store the dressing and salad separately. Mix just before serving to keep the broccoli crisp.
Stir gently before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing. If the salad seems dry, add a teaspoon of mayonnaise or vinegar. Consume within 3 days for the best flavor.
Summary
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, and a sweet-tangy dressing. It’s easy to make, taking just 20 minutes plus chilling time, and feeds a crowd or stores well for days. The recipe’s versatility shines, whether you’re serving it at a potluck, picnic, or weeknight dinner.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s beginner-friendly yet impressive. The nutritional balance makes it a guilt-free indulgence, and customization options let you tailor it to your taste. This salad is sure to become a go-to for any occasion.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Frozen broccoli can work but may be softer. Thaw and pat dry before using to avoid a watery salad.
How can I make this salad healthier?
Swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and reduce sugar. Add more veggies like carrots for extra nutrients.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative. Ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly if needed.
How long should I chill the salad?
Chill for at least 30 minutes, but 1–2 hours is ideal. Overnight chilling enhances the flavors even more.
What can I substitute for dried cranberries?
Raisins, chopped dried apricots, or pomegranate seeds work well. Keep the amount similar for balance.
Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk or Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or oven
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Bacon: 8 slices of cooked bacon crumbled.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup finely diced for a mild bite.
- Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup for a touch of sweetness.
- Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup hulled and roasted for crunch.
- Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon water.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces, discarding thick stems. Pat dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
- Cook the bacon until crispy in a skillet or oven. Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside to add later.
Step 3: Dice the Red Onion
- Finely dice the red onion to avoid overpowering the salad. Aim for small, uniform pieces for even distribution. Place in the large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Shred the Cheese
- If using a block of cheddar, grate it using a medium grater. Pre-shredded cheese works fine too. Add to the mixing bowl with the onion.
Step 5: Combine Salad Ingredients
- Add the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds to the bowl. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly. Ensure the cheese is distributed throughout.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 7: Dress the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Make sure the dressing reaches every piece.
Step 8: Chill the Salad
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld and enhances the taste. For best results, chill for 1–2 hours.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual portions. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds, if desired.
