Chicken Salad Chick is known for its fresh salads, but their cookies steal the show. Soft, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth — they’re the perfect treat to end any meal. Craving one at home? This copycat recipe brings that same bakery-style cookie right to your kitchen. Read on to discover how to make them yourself!
Introduction to Chicken Salad Chick’s Famous Cookies
While Chicken Salad Chick is best known for its variety of fresh, flavorful chicken salads, many loyal customers can’t leave without grabbing one of their signature cookies. These cookies are served as a sweet surprise with most meals — and they’re always a hit.
What makes them stand out? They’re ultra-soft, buttery, and have just the right amount of sweetness. Often described as a cross between a classic sugar cookie and a buttercream dream, they melt in your mouth with every bite.
What Makes These Cookies Special?
Chicken Salad Chick cookies stand out for their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavor. They’re not your average store-bought cookie — they have that homemade charm with a perfectly tender bite.
Here’s what sets them apart:
- Soft-Baked Texture: These cookies are thick and pillowy, with just enough crispness around the edges to hold their shape. There’s no crunch here — only softness in every bite.
- Buttery Vanilla Flavor: The flavor is simple yet indulgent. A blend of butter, vanilla, and sugar creates that classic sweet taste people love. Some versions include a hint of almond or a touch of cream cheese for added richness.
- Signature Frosting (Optional): While not always frosted, some copycat recipes top them with a swirl of sweet buttercream — the same kind you might find on a bakery sugar cookie. It adds another layer of flavor and nostalgia.
- Consistent Shape and Look: These cookies are round, thick, and usually uniform in size, giving them a bakery-quality appearance. They’re just as beautiful as they are delicious.
- Nostalgic Comfort: For many, these cookies bring a comforting, homemade feel. Whether enjoyed after a savory chicken salad or as an afternoon treat, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the soft, buttery goodness of Chicken Salad Chick’s cookies at home, you don’t need anything fancy — just a few basic pantry staples. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
For the Cookies:
All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups)
Provides structure to the cookies. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid dry dough.
Baking Powder (1 tsp)
Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
Salt (½ tsp)
Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 2 sticks, softened)
The base of the rich, buttery flavor. Room temperature butter blends better and creates a smoother dough.
Granulated Sugar (1 ¼ cups)
Sweetens the cookies and helps them spread slightly while baking.
Large Eggs (2)
Adds moisture and helps bind the dough.
Vanilla Extract (2 tsp)
Provides that classic cookie aroma and flavor.
Almond Extract (optional, ¼ tsp)
Adds a subtle bakery-style twist. Use sparingly — it’s strong!
Optional: For the Buttercream Frosting (if desired):
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened)
Acts as the creamy base of the frosting.
Powdered Sugar (2–2 ½ cups)
Gives the frosting its sweetness and smooth texture.
Milk or Heavy Cream (1–2 tbsp)
Helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
Food Coloring (optional)
For a fun, decorative touch — pink is often used for a classic look.
Ingredient Tips:
Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Don’t skip the extracts — they elevate the overall taste. Room temperature ingredients (like butter and eggs) blend better and create a smoother dough.
Tools and Equipment Checklist
Making a perfect batch of Chicken Salad Chick-style cookies doesn’t require professional baking tools — just a few kitchen essentials. Having the right equipment will help you bake evenly shaped, soft, and delicious cookies every time.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Mixing Bowls
At least two: one for wet ingredients and one for dry. Use medium to large bowls to give yourself plenty of room to mix.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
A handheld electric mixer works well, but a stand mixer makes the job easier — especially when creaming butter and sugar to a light, fluffy consistency.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement is key in baking. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, and measuring spoons for baking powder, salt, and extracts.
Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding ingredients gently without overmixing.
Cookie Scoop or Ice Cream Scoop
Ensures uniform cookie size, which helps the cookies bake evenly. A medium-sized scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) is ideal.
Baking Sheets
Use light-colored, flat baking sheets to prevent over-browning. Make sure they’re clean and not warped for even baking.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Prevents sticking and promotes even baking. Also makes cleanup much easier.
Wire Cooling Rack
Letting cookies cool on a rack keeps them from getting soggy on the bottom and helps maintain that soft texture.
Optional: Piping Bag & Tip (for Frosting)
If you’re adding buttercream, a piping bag with a round or star tip helps you get that classic bakery swirl.
Quick Tip:
Have everything measured and ready before you start mixing. This helps prevent mistakes and makes the process smoother.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to bring the cookies to life! Follow these simple steps to create soft, buttery cookies that taste just like the ones from Chicken Salad Chick.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- Mix on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is key for soft cookies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in:
- 2 large eggs, one at a time
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- (Optional: ¼ tsp almond extract for added bakery-style flavor)
Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix — this keeps the cookies tender.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between cookies to allow for slight spreading.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes. The edges should be set but not browned, and the centers should look slightly underbaked — that’s the secret to soft cookies.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Step 9: Add Frosting
Once fully cooled, top with buttercream if desired. Use a piping bag for a neat swirl or spread it with a spatula for a homemade look.
Tips for Perfect Cookies Every Time
Achieving the perfect Chicken Salad Chick-style cookie requires more than just following the recipe. With these helpful tips, you’ll ensure that each batch is soft, chewy, and irresistibly delicious.
Measure Your Ingredients Properly
- Flour: Too much flour can make your cookies dense. To measure, spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Don’t scoop directly from the bag.
- Sugar & Butter: Use room temperature butter (soft but not melted) and accurate measurements for sugar. Too much butter will make the dough too greasy, while too little can affect the texture.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Once the dry ingredients are added, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense cookies instead of the light, airy texture we want. The key is to blend the ingredients without overworking the dough.
Chill the Dough (Optional)
Chilling your cookie dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking can help control the spread of the cookies. It also enhances the flavors and prevents them from becoming too flat during baking.
Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniformity
A cookie scoop ensures that your cookies are evenly sized, which leads to consistent baking. It also keeps the cookies looking neat and professional.
Watch the Bake Time
Don’t overbake — the cookies should be slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool. Start checking around the 9-minute mark. Once the edges are set and the center is slightly soft, they’re ready.
Let the Cookies Cool Properly
Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them set up without breaking apart. If you move them too quickly, they might crumble or lose their shape.
Consider Frosting for Extra Flavor
While optional, adding a light layer of buttercream frosting gives your cookies the signature touch that makes them extra special. If you want that bakery look, a piping bag and decorative tip work wonders.
Store Cookies Correctly
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just layer them with parchment paper and store in a freezer bag.
Customize Your Cookies
If you want to add a twist to the classic recipe, try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. Just be sure not to overwhelm the dough with too many add-ins — a little goes a long way.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
While the classic Chicken Salad Chick cookie recipe is delicious as is, there are several ways you can make tweaks to suit dietary preferences or add a little extra flavor. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:
Make It Gluten-Free
- Substitute the flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. These blends often contain xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of gluten.
- Check other ingredients: Ensure that other ingredients like baking powder and vanilla extract are gluten-free (most brands are).
Tip: Chilling the dough might help gluten-free cookies hold their shape better during baking.
Make It Dairy-Free
- Butter: Replace unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter (such as Earth Balance).
- Milk for Frosting: Use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of regular milk in the frosting to keep it dairy-free.
Tip: Dairy-free cookies may spread a little more, so be sure to chill the dough before baking.
Make It Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar
- Granulated Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia, Erythritol, or Monk Fruit. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, as sugar plays a role in creating a soft texture.
- For the frosting: You can use powdered sugar substitutes or make a frosting using unsweetened cream cheese mixed with a sugar-free sweetener.
Tip: If using sugar substitutes, check the recommended conversions, as some are sweeter than sugar.
Add Extra Flavor with Mix-ins
- Chocolate Chips: For a richer, chocolatey flavor, add semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to the dough (about 1 cup). Chocolate pairs wonderfully with the buttery texture.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts are great add-ins. Just chop them coarsely and stir them into the dough.
- Dried Fruit: Adding dried cranberries, raisins, or cherries can add a chewy texture and tangy sweetness.
- Zest: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh citrus note.
Tip: Add about ½ to 1 cup of add-ins to keep the texture balanced.
Flavor Twist: Almonds or Coconut
- Almond Extract: If you enjoy the flavor of almond, consider replacing part of the vanilla extract with almond extract (about 1/2 tsp). This gives the cookies a delightful, nutty fragrance.
- Shredded Coconut: Add sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a chewy, tropical twist.
Try a Frosting Variation
- Lemon Buttercream: Mix in a little lemon zest and lemon juice into the buttercream for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Chocolate Frosting: If you want something richer, top your cookies with a smooth chocolate buttercream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For a tangy contrast, try cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional buttercream.
Vegan Version
- Eggs: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg). Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Butter: As mentioned above, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil.
- Frosting: For vegan frosting, use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk.
Experiment with Color
Colored Frosting:
If you’re making these cookies for a special event or holiday, consider using food coloring in your buttercream frosting for a festive touch. You can tint it pastel colors for spring or vibrant shades for birthdays and holidays.
Storing and Freezing Your Cookies
Once you’ve baked your batch of Chicken Salad Chick-style cookies, the next step is preserving their freshness. Whether you’re keeping them for yourself or sharing with friends, here’s how to store and freeze them for the best taste and texture.
Storing Your Cookies at Room Temperature
- Cool Completely First: Before storing your cookies, make sure they’ve cooled completely on a wire rack. This prevents moisture from building up and making them soggy.
- Use an Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and prevent them from drying out. A plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid works best.
- Layering with Parchment Paper: If you’re stacking your cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to avoid them sticking together.
- Shelf Life: When stored properly at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for about 5–7 days. However, they’ll be at their best within the first few days.
Storing Frosted Cookies
- Chill the Frosting: If you’ve frosted your cookies, it’s best to store them in a container with a layer of parchment paper between them to prevent the frosting from sticking. Place the cookies in a cool, dry place to keep the frosting intact.
- Refrigeration: If you’re worried about the frosting melting, you can refrigerate the cookies. However, allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as the frosting may harden when cold.
Freezing Your Cookies for Long-Term Storage
If you’ve made a large batch or want to keep some for later, freezing is a great way to extend their shelf life while preserving their taste and texture.
Freezing Unfrosted Cookies:
- Cool completely and lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1–2 hours until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been frozen.
Storage Time: Frozen cookies will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Freezing Frosted Cookies:
- If you’ve frosted the cookies, allow the frosting to set completely at room temperature.
- Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours.
- After freezing, store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, with parchment paper between the layers.
Storage Time: Frosted cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 2–3 months.
Thawing Frozen Cookies
- At Room Temperature: To thaw your cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. The cookies will soften and regain their original texture.
- For Frosted Cookies: If you’ve frozen frosted cookies, let them thaw completely before serving to allow the frosting to soften again. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw them in the fridge and then bring them to room temperature.
Refreshing Cookies for Softness
If you find that your cookies have lost a bit of their softness after storing or freezing, you can revive them:
Place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies for a few hours. The moisture from the bread will help restore the cookies’ softness. Alternatively, warm cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften them.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once your Chicken Salad Chick-style cookies are baked and ready to enjoy, it’s time to think about how to serve them! These cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or paired with various beverages and dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions and pairings to elevate your cookie experience.
Serve with a Glass of Milk
- Classic Pairing: There’s nothing quite like a cold glass of milk with a fresh, soft cookie. The creamy milk complements the rich, buttery flavor of the cookies perfectly.
- Varieties: You can choose from regular dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any milk alternative you prefer.
Enjoy with a Hot Beverage
- Coffee or Espresso: The slightly sweet and rich flavor of the cookie pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. For an extra treat, drizzle a little chocolate syrup on top of your coffee.
- Tea: A hot cup of tea (black, green, or herbal) is another perfect match. The buttery cookies provide a nice balance to the slight bitterness or floral notes in your tea.
Pair with Fruit for a Light Snack
- Fresh Fruit: Serve your cookies alongside a refreshing bowl of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, grapes, or citrus slices. The sweetness of the fruit complements the soft, buttery texture of the cookies, creating a light and satisfying snack.
- Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with a mix of your favorite fruits is another great pairing. The contrast between the fresh, juicy fruit and the soft cookie enhances the overall experience.
Perfect for Dessert Platters
- Dessert Table: These cookies are a great addition to a dessert platter or buffet. Their soft texture and classic flavor make them an appealing option alongside other sweet treats like brownies, cupcakes, and pies.
- Holiday Platters: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday party, these cookies are ideal for festive platters. You can decorate them with colorful frosting or sprinkles to match the occasion.
Pair with Ice Cream for an Indulgent Treat
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take your cookies to the next level by turning them into ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or a fruity flavor) between two cookies for a delicious, indulgent treat.
- A La Mode: Serve your cookies alongside a bowl of warm pie or cake and a scoop of ice cream on the side. The contrast between the warm dessert and the cold ice cream creates a satisfying experience.
Serve as a Snack or Breakfast Treat
Midday Snack: These cookies are perfect for a quick snack between meals. Their soft, comforting texture and sweet flavor make them ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Breakfast Treat: Pair a couple of cookies with your morning coffee or tea for a quick and easy breakfast. The slightly sweet flavor can serve as a delightful start to your day, especially if you’re in a rush.
Serve at Parties or Gatherings
- Picnics or Potlucks: These cookies are ideal for casual gatherings like picnics or potlucks. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them easy to enjoy, and they’re sure to be a hit with guests.
- Birthday Parties: Decorate them with colorful frosting or sprinkles to match the party theme. These cookies will add a fun and delicious touch to the celebration.
Perfect for Gift Giving
- Cookie Jars or Gift Boxes: Pack these cookies into a beautiful jar or box for a thoughtful homemade gift. You can add a personalized tag or ribbon for an extra touch.
- Holiday Gifts: During the holiday season, these cookies make a great gift. Place them in a festive container, and you’ve got a sweet, homemade gift to share with family and friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Chicken Salad Chick-style cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to special gatherings. With their soft, buttery texture and customizable variations, they’re easy to bake and even easier to enjoy. Whether you prefer them with a glass of milk, as part of a dessert platter, or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. By following the simple steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can recreate this beloved cookie at home and share the joy with friends and family. Happy baking!
FAQS
Chicken Salad Chick Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Turn your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's hot and ready for baking.
- Mix softened butter and sugar in a bowl. Add the egg and vanilla, and mix. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones.
- Now, Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with a glass or your hand.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then move to a wire rack.
- Beat softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar. Add milk and vanilla, and beat until smooth.
- Spread frosting on cooled cookies and add some sprinkles if you like.
- Allow the frosted cookies to sit for a few minutes to let the frosting set before eating or storing. Enjoy.