Introduction to Chicken Salad Sam’s Club Recipe
If you’ve ever tried the chicken salad from Sam’s Club, you know it’s something special. Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor—it’s hard to stop at one bite. This recipe is a copycat version that captures everything you love about the original. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and comes together in minutes. Want to know the secret that makes it so addictive? Keep reading.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Sam’s Club Chicken Salad stands out because of its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s more than just chopped chicken and mayo—it has a few key ingredients that take it to the next level.
The Secret Ingredient
What really sets this chicken salad apart is sweet pickle relish. While it may seem simple, the relish adds a burst of sweetness and tang that brings all the ingredients together. Combined with diced pickles, it creates a layered flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Why Use Both Pickles and Relish?
Using both gives the salad a great contrast in texture and taste. Pickles add a crisp crunch and a sharper bite, while relish blends into the dressing and adds a touch of sweetness. Together, they balance the richness of the mayo and the saltiness of the chicken.
The Sam’s Club Difference
This recipe mimics the rotisserie chicken flavor that Sam’s Club is known for. Using rotisserie chicken adds depth, as it’s already seasoned and incredibly juicy—making your salad taste like it came straight from the deli.
Ingredients Overview
To recreate the classic Sam’s Club Chicken Salad at home, you don’t need anything fancy—just a few fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each one matters.
Main Ingredients:
Rotisserie Chicken (about 3 cups, shredded or chopped):
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich, seasoned flavor. It also gives the salad a tender, juicy texture.
Mayonnaise (¾ to 1 cup):
This is the creamy base of the dressing. Use a good-quality mayo for the best taste. You can adjust the amount depending on how creamy you like it.
Sweet Pickle Relish (2–3 tablespoons):
The star ingredient. Adds sweetness and tang that balance the savory chicken.
Dill Pickles (2–3 tablespoons, finely chopped):
These add a crunchy texture and a burst of sour flavor that pairs perfectly with the relish.
Celery (1–2 stalks, finely diced):
Gives the salad crunch and a fresh bite. Optional but highly recommended.
Red Onion (1–2 tablespoons, finely minced):
Adds sharpness and depth of flavor. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the salad.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
Enhances all the flavors. Start with a pinch and adjust to your preference.
Optional Add-ins:
Hard-Boiled Egg (chopped):
For a Southern-style twist and added creaminess.
Mustard (½ teaspoon):
Adds a slight tang and depth if you want a more zesty profile.
Paprika or Garlic Powder (a pinch):
For subtle background flavor.
Substitution Tips:
- Greek Yogurt can replace some or all of the mayo for a lighter version.
- Shredded chicken breast works if you don’t have rotisserie chicken—but season it well.
- Sweet onions or green onions can be used instead of red onion for a milder taste.
Recommended Equipment
Making Sam’s Club-style chicken salad at home is simple, and you don’t need any special tools—just basic kitchen equipment to ensure the ingredients are well-prepared and the texture turns out just right. Here’s what you’ll need:
Large Mixing Bowl
A wide, deep bowl gives you plenty of space to mix the ingredients without spilling. It’s especially helpful when combining shredded chicken with mayo and other mix-ins evenly.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
You’ll need a good knife for chopping celery, onions, pickles, and any optional ingredients like hard-boiled eggs. A sturdy cutting board helps keep everything steady and safe while you work.
Forks or Meat Shredder (for Chicken)
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, you can shred it by hand or with two forks. For a finer texture, a pair of meat claws or shredders works quickly and keeps your hands clean.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements help keep the flavor balanced—especially for ingredients like mayo, relish, and seasonings. Even if you adjust to taste, starting with proper ratios ensures consistency.
Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Use a spoon or spatula to mix the ingredients thoroughly without mashing the chicken. A flexible spatula helps scrape down the sides of the bowl and blend everything evenly.
Airtight Storage Container (for chilling and storing)
Once prepared, the chicken salad should be chilled. An airtight container keeps it fresh and prevents the salad from absorbing fridge odors. It also makes it easy to store leftovers for later use.
Optional but Helpful:
Mini Food Processor:
Speeds up the chopping of pickles or onions if you want a finer, more uniform texture.
Salad Spinner (if using fresh herbs or greens):
If you plan to serve the salad over lettuce or greens, a salad spinner helps ensure your greens are dry and crisp.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making your own Sam’s Club-style chicken salad at home is easy and only takes about 15–20 minutes. Follow these simple steps for a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured result.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and pull the meat from the bones. Shred or chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Tip: For a texture close to Sam’s Club, a mix of shredded and finely chopped chicken works best.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Mix-ins
Finely dice the celery, red onion, and dill pickles. Measure out your sweet pickle relish. If using optional ingredients (like hard-boiled eggs), chop them now.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl (or directly in your mixing bowl if you prefer), combine:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet pickle relish
- A dash of mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
In your large mixing bowl:
- Add the chopped chicken.
- Add all diced vegetables and optional mix-ins.
- Pour the dressing over everything.
- Gently stir with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Tip: Don’t overmix—keep some texture in the chicken and veggies.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or relish if needed. Want it creamier? Add a spoonful more mayo. Need more tang? A splash of pickle juice can brighten the flavor.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or with crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Sam’s Club-style chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, prepping for a potluck, or looking for a light dinner option, this chicken salad fits the occasion. Here are some delicious and easy ways to serve it:
Classic Sandwiches
- Bread Options: Serve it between slices of soft white bread, whole wheat, multigrain, or croissants for a deli-style sandwich.
- Additions: Add a leaf of crisp romaine lettuce, a slice of tomato, or a bit of red onion for added texture and freshness.
Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb, gluten-free option, spoon the chicken salad into large leaves of romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce. Add shredded carrots, cucumbers, or avocado for extra crunch and nutrition.
Crackers or Pita Chips
Serve the chicken salad as a dip-style appetizer or snack with a side of buttery crackers, pita chips, or bagel crisps. Great for parties, picnics, or lunchbox meals.
Salad Bowls
Place a scoop of chicken salad over a bed of fresh greens—like spring mix, baby spinach, or arugula. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and lemon juice if desired. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or shredded cheese for variety.
Stuffed Avocados or Tomatoes
Cut an avocado in half and remove the pit. Fill the hollow with a scoop of chicken salad. Hollow out a large tomato and fill it with chicken salad for a fresh, colorful presentation.
Wraps and Tortilla Rolls
Spread the chicken salad on a flour or spinach tortilla, roll it up, and slice into pinwheels or eat whole as a wrap. Add lettuce, shredded carrots, or sprouts for extra crunch.
On Toast or Bagels
Spoon chicken salad onto toasted sourdough, rye, or an everything bagel for a hearty, open-faced version. Top with a pickle slice or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
Portion Tips:
- Lunch serving: ½ to ¾ cup per person
- Party or appetizer portion: 2–3 tablespoons per serving
- Main meal: 1 cup per serving if using as a salad base
Nutrition & Serving Information
Knowing what goes into your food—and how much of it—is just as important as how it tastes. This section provides a general idea of the nutritional value of Sam’s Club-style chicken salad and how to portion it appropriately.
Estimated Nutrition (Per ¾ Cup Serving):
Please note: Exact values will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 20–25g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Saturated Fat: 4–6g
- Carbohydrates: 3–6g
- Sugar: 1–3g
- Fiber: 0–1g
- Cholesterol: 70–90mg
- Sodium: 500–700mg
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- High in Protein: Thanks to rotisserie chicken, this salad provides a satisfying protein punch—perfect for lunch or a post-workout meal.
- Low in Carbs: Especially if served on lettuce or low-carb wraps, this is a keto-friendly meal.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The mayo contributes most of the fat content; for a lighter version, substitute with part Greek yogurt.
- Customizable: You can reduce sodium by using a low-salt rotisserie chicken and choosing low-sodium pickles or mayo.
Serving Size Guide:
- Light lunch or side dish: ½ cup
- Main dish or sandwich filling: ¾ to 1 cup
- Appetizer/dip portion: 2–3 tablespoons
Yield:
This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings depending on portion size. Perfect for small gatherings or meal prepping for the week.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade Sam’s Club-style chicken salad fresh, safe, and delicious for days. Here’s how to store it correctly and what you need to know about its shelf life.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Storage Method:
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Temperature:
Keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally below 40°F (4°C).
How Long Does It Last?
Chicken salad will stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- Tip: Always label the container with the date you made it to track freshness.
Signs It’s No Longer Good:
- Sour smell
- Watery or separated texture
- Discoloration
- Slimy appearance
If any of these signs appear, it’s safest to discard it.
Freezing Chicken Salad – Is It a Good Idea?
Technically, you can freeze chicken salad, but it’s not recommended, especially if it contains:
- Mayonnaise: Freezing and thawing can cause it to separate and become grainy.
- Celery and pickles: These tend to become mushy and lose their crunch after freezing.
Alternative Tip:
If you want to freeze it, do so before adding mayo and other creamy ingredients. Freeze just the cooked, chopped chicken portion, then mix in the rest when ready to serve.
Meal Prep Tips:
Small Batch Storage:
Divide the chicken salad into individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Serving After Chilling:
Stir well before serving after refrigeration to restore the original creamy texture. Add a small spoonful of mayo or a splash of milk if it looks dry.
Helpful Tips & Variations
Whether you’re making Sam’s Club-style chicken salad for the first time or want to make it your own, these pro tips and variations will help you elevate the flavor, texture, and presentation. Small changes can make a big difference!
Pro Tips for Best Results
Use Rotisserie Chicken While It’s Warm:
Shredding the chicken while it’s still slightly warm makes it easier to pull apart and allows it to absorb the dressing better.
Chill Before Serving:
Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour improves the flavor as all the ingredients blend together.
Dry Ingredients Well:
If you wash celery or pickles before chopping, make sure they’re completely dry. Excess moisture can make the salad watery.
Add Mayo Gradually:
Start with a smaller amount and increase to your desired creaminess. It’s easier to add more than to fix an overly wet salad.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After chilling, taste the salad again. Sometimes it needs an extra pinch of salt or a splash of pickle juice after resting.
Creative Variations to Try
Healthier Version:
- Swap half or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt or light mayo.
- Use chopped grilled chicken breast instead of rotisserie for lower sodium.
Spicy Kick:
- Add a dash of hot sauce, sriracha, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or a bit of spicy mustard.
Southern-Style Twist:
Add chopped hard-boiled eggs and a teaspoon of yellow mustard for extra richness and tang.
Crunchy Additions:
Mix in chopped pecans, sliced almonds, or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch.
Fruity & Fresh:
Stir in a handful of grapes (halved), diced apples, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
Herb Upgrade:
Add chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness.
Make It Meal-Ready
Meal Prep Tip:
Store in individual containers with lettuce or wrap options to grab-and-go during the week.
Double the Recipe:
Planning for a crowd? This recipe scales easily. Just double the ingredients and keep portions in separate containers for easier chilling and serving.
Helpful Tips & Variations
Whether you’re making Sam’s Club-style chicken salad for the first time or want to make it your own, these pro tips and variations will help you elevate the flavor, texture, and presentation. Small changes can make a big difference!
Pro Tips for Best Results
Use Rotisserie Chicken While It’s Warm:
Shredding the chicken while it’s still slightly warm makes it easier to pull apart and allows it to absorb the dressing better.
Chill Before Serving:
Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour improves the flavor as all the ingredients blend together.
Dry Ingredients Well:
If you wash celery or pickles before chopping, make sure they’re completely dry. Excess moisture can make the salad watery.
Add Mayo Gradually:
Start with a smaller amount and increase to your desired creaminess. It’s easier to add more than to fix an overly wet salad.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After chilling, taste the salad again. Sometimes it needs an extra pinch of salt or a splash of pickle juice after resting.
Creative Variations to Try
Healthier Version:
- Swap half or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt or light mayo.
- Use chopped grilled chicken breast instead of rotisserie for lower sodium.
Spicy Kick:
- Add a dash of hot sauce, sriracha, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or a bit of spicy mustard.
Southern-Style Twist:
Add chopped hard-boiled eggs and a teaspoon of yellow mustard for extra richness and tang.
Crunchy Additions:
Mix in chopped pecans, sliced almonds, or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch.
Fruity & Fresh:
Stir in a handful of grapes (halved), diced apples, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
Herb Upgrade:
Add chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness.
Make It Meal-Ready
Meal Prep Tip:
Store in individual containers with lettuce or wrap options to grab-and-go during the week.
Double the Recipe:
Planning for a crowd? This recipe scales easily. Just double the ingredients and keep portions in separate containers for easier chilling and serving.
Conclusion
Sam’s Club-style chicken salad is a simple, satisfying dish that brings creamy comfort and bold flavor to your table with minimal effort. By using quality ingredients and following a few easy steps, you can recreate this deli favorite right in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, or on a bed of greens, this chicken salad is a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try it once, and you may never need to buy it premade again.
FAQS
Chicken Salad Sam’s Club Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Pull the chicken off of the bones from the rotisserie and place on a cutting board.
- Dice the chicken and add to a large mixing bowl.
- Dice celery and pickles and add to mixing bowl.
- Slice Grapes in half or quarters (your choice) and place in bowl.
- Gently stir ingredients together until well mixed.
- Stir in mayo.
- Serve on croissant or your favorite bread.
- Refrigerate remaining chicken salad and store for up to 1 week.