Introduction to Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe
Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad has quickly become a fan favorite. It’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, it delivers both crunch and nutrition. If you love it as a side or want to recreate it at home, you’re in the right place. This copycat recipe is easy, healthy, and just as delicious. Let’s break down exactly how to make it.
What Makes This Salad Special
The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad stands out because of its simple yet satisfying blend of flavors and textures. It’s not your average fast-food side—it’s fresh, crisp, and surprisingly wholesome.
At the heart of the salad is curly kale, a leafy green known for its health benefits. It’s paired with shredded green cabbage, which adds extra crunch and mild sweetness. The two greens balance each other perfectly, making every bite refreshing and flavorful.
What really elevates the salad is the toasted almonds. They bring a deep, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender greens. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Then comes the signature maple Dijon vinaigrette—tangy, slightly sweet, and incredibly addictive. It ties all the ingredients together without overpowering them. The dressing is light, yet it adds richness and depth to the entire dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Recreating the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home is easy when you have the right ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each component plays a key role in delivering that fresh, crisp, and flavorful experience.
For the Salad Base:
- Curly Kale: Use fresh, vibrant curly kale. It’s hearty, holds dressing well, and becomes tender when massaged.
- Green Cabbage: Shredded green cabbage adds a crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances the kale.
For the Crunch Topping:
Sliced Almonds:
Lightly roasted almonds provide the salad’s signature crunch. Use plain sliced almonds and toast them for best flavor.
For the Dressing (Maple Dijon Vinaigrette):
- Olive Oil: The base of the dressing—choose extra virgin for the best taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tang and balances the sweetness.
- Maple Syrup: Gives the dressing its signature sweetness. Use real maple syrup for a natural flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds sharpness and a slight kick.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor.
Optional Additions:
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the greens before dressing.
- Sea Salt or Garlic Powder: For extra depth, especially if you’re roasting your almonds at home.
Choosing and Prepping the Kale
Kale is the star of this salad, so choosing and preparing it properly is essential for the best taste and texture. If you’ve ever had tough or bitter kale, it likely wasn’t prepped the right way. Don’t worry—this step is simple and makes all the difference.
Which Kale to Use
For this recipe, curly kale is the best option. It’s widely available, has a mild flavor, and softens nicely when prepared properly. Avoid tougher varieties like dinosaur (lacinato) kale unless you’re used to working with them.
How to Prep the Kale
- Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the kale under cold water to remove dirt or grit. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels.
- Remove the Stems: The thick stems are fibrous and bitter. Hold the base of the stem with one hand, then slide your fingers up to strip the leaves off cleanly.
- Tear into Bite-Sized Pieces: Use your hands to tear the leaves into pieces about 1 to 2 inches wide. This helps them absorb the dressing evenly and makes for easier eating.
Massage the Kale
This is the secret step that transforms kale from tough to tender.
- Place the torn kale in a large bowl.
- Add a small drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
- Gently rub and squeeze the kale with clean hands for about 2–3 minutes.
- You’ll notice the leaves darken and shrink slightly—that’s how you know it’s ready.
Massaging breaks down the kale’s fibers, making it softer, less bitter, and easier to digest. It also helps the kale better absorb the flavors of the dressing.
The Perfect Dressing: Copycat Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
The dressing is what truly brings the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad to life. Light, tangy, and just sweet enough, this Maple Dijon Vinaigrette adds balance to the earthy kale and crunchy cabbage. Fortunately, it’s easy to make at home with a few pantry staples.
Ingredients for the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil gives the dressing a rich, smooth base.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Provides brightness and a bit of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup: Adds subtle sweetness; don’t substitute with pancake syrup.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For that sharp, tangy bite that pairs well with kale.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.
How to Make It:
Combine ingredients in a small bowl or mason jar: Add the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk or shake well until the mixture is fully emulsified (creamy and well-blended). A jar with a lid is great for quick mixing.
Taste and adjust:
You can tweak the flavor by adding:
- More maple syrup for sweetness,
- Extra Dijon for a sharper bite,
- Or a pinch of garlic powder for depth.
Make Ahead Tip:
This dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just shake or stir before each use, as separation is natural.
Crunch Factor: Roasted Almond Topping
The sliced almonds in Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad are more than just a topping—they’re a key component that adds richness, texture, and depth. Lightly toasted almonds bring a warm, nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender greens and tangy vinaigrette.
Why Toast the Almonds?
Toasting enhances the flavor of almonds, making them more aromatic and adding a delicate crispiness that raw almonds just don’t have. It only takes a few minutes and is well worth the effort.
What You’ll Need:
½ cup sliced almonds (or adjust to taste)
- Optional: a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt or garlic powder for extra flavor
How to Toast Almonds:
Stovetop Method (Quick & Easy):
- Place a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced almonds in a single layer.
- Stir or shake the pan frequently for 3–5 minutes until the almonds are golden and fragrant.
- Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a plate to cool (they can burn quickly if left in the hot pan).
Oven Method (Great for Big Batches):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 6–8 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
- Watch closely—they can go from golden to burnt fast.
Flavor Tips:
For a savory twist, toss warm almonds with a pinch of sea salt or garlic powder. For extra sweetness, you can lightly drizzle with maple syrup before toasting—just be careful, as sugars can burn.
Assembling the Salad
Now that you have all the components—freshly prepped kale, tangy maple Dijon dressing, and crunchy toasted almonds—it’s time to bring everything together. The key to a perfect Kale Crunch Salad is making sure every bite is balanced with flavors and textures. Here’s how to assemble it like a pro.
Step-by-Step Assembly:
Place the Kale in a Large Bowl:
After massaging the kale, add it to a large mixing bowl. This gives you plenty of room to toss everything together without making a mess.
Add the Shredded Cabbage:
Next, toss in the shredded green cabbage. You want it to be evenly distributed with the kale, but not overpower it. The cabbage will add a nice crunchy bite to contrast with the kale’s tenderness.
Drizzle with Dressing:
Pour the maple Dijon vinaigrette over the kale and cabbage mixture. Start with a few tablespoons and toss gently. You can always add more if needed. Toss the salad well, making sure each leaf is lightly coated with the dressing. Avoid drowning the greens—just enough to give it flavor and moisture.
Add the Toasted Almonds:
Generously sprinkle the toasted almonds over the salad. These will provide that essential crunch factor and complement the smooth dressing and tender greens.
Optional Additions:
For added flavor, you can toss in some cranberries, shredded carrots, or grilled chicken to turn the salad into a full meal. Lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a bright, citrusy finish.
Tips for Perfect Assembly:
- Don’t Overmix: When tossing the salad, be gentle. You want the dressing to coat the ingredients without wilting the kale or breaking down the cabbage.
- Serve Immediately or Let It Marinate: If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the salad sit for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the kale and cabbage, making them even more flavorful. However, if you’re serving it right away, it will still be delicious!
Serving Suggestions
The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re using it as a side dish or turning it into a full meal, here are some serving ideas to enhance your experience.
As a Side Dish:
- Perfect with Chick-fil-A Sandwiches: The Kale Crunch Salad pairs beautifully with Chick-fil-A’s signature chicken sandwiches. The freshness of the salad contrasts perfectly with the richness of the crispy chicken.
- Alongside Grilled Items: If you’re grilling chicken, steak, or even fish, this salad makes an excellent side. Its lightness balances the heartiness of grilled meats.
- With a Wrap or Burger: If you’re having a wrap or burger, the salad is a great way to add some freshness and crunch to your meal.
As a Main Course:
- Add Protein: To turn this salad into a satisfying main dish, top it with some protein. Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or even crispy tofu are great options. You can also add a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
- Cheese Options: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy texture and a touch of tang that complements the maple Dijon dressing perfectly.
- Add Fruit: For a sweet contrast, try adding sliced apples, pears, or dried cranberries. The slight sweetness will enhance the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.
Meal Prep Option:
- Pack It for Lunch: If you’re looking for a healthy lunch, the Kale Crunch Salad holds up well for meal prep. Just keep the dressing and almonds separate until you’re ready to eat to ensure everything stays fresh and crunchy.
- Add Sides: Pair the salad with a whole grain like quinoa, brown rice, or a piece of whole-grain bread for a more filling meal.
Serving Style:
- Plating: Serve the salad in large, shallow bowls to allow the ingredients to be visible and show off the textures. This makes the meal look even more appetizing.
- Family-Style: If you’re serving a group, consider presenting the salad in a large serving bowl where everyone can help themselves. This works especially well when paired with a variety of sides or main dishes.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you’re making the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad ahead of time or have leftovers, it’s important to store it properly to keep everything fresh and crunchy. Here are some tips for storing and meal prepping this salad to enjoy throughout the week.
How to Store Leftovers:
- Kale Salad Base: The kale and cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the salad will continue to soften over time, so it’s best to eat it within the first couple of days for the freshest texture.
- Dressing: Store the maple Dijon vinaigrette separately in a jar or container with a lid in the fridge. It will last up to 1 week. Shake or stir before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time.
- Toasted Almonds: If you have any leftover toasted almonds, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can lose their crispness if stored in the fridge.
Meal Prep Tips:
- Keep Ingredients Separate: To prevent the salad from getting soggy, store the kale, cabbage, and almonds separately from the dressing. You can prep the salad base and dressing in advance, then just toss them together when you’re ready to eat.
- Use a Mason Jar for Dressing: If you’re packing the salad in individual portions, layer the ingredients in a mason jar. Start with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the kale and cabbage. This method ensures the greens don’t get soggy and stays fresh until you’re ready to eat.
- Add Protein Later: If you plan to add grilled chicken or other protein, store it separately and add it on the day you plan to eat the salad. This ensures the protein stays fresh and doesn’t wilt the greens.
Making It Ahead:
You can prep the kale and cabbage for several days in advance. Just make sure to store them in a large airtight container to keep them crisp. The almonds can be toasted in bulk and stored at room temperature, so you can add them to the salad when needed. The vinaigrette can be made in large batches and stored in the fridge. Shake well before using.
Conclusion
The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a light, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s easy to recreate at home. With its combination of tender kale, crisp cabbage, crunchy almonds, and a tangy maple Dijon vinaigrette, this salad has all the right elements to satisfy your cravings for something fresh and healthy.
FAQS
Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Kale: Wash and dry the kale with paper towels. Remove the rib with your hands or a knife, and cut into bite-sized pieces. Place the bite-sized pieces in a medium-sized bowl. Toss with about a teaspoon of olive oil and a small squeeze of lemon. Massage the kale with your hands for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Combine the kale and shredded green cabbage in a large mixing bowl
- Vinaigrette: Mix the apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside, using a mason jar or a small bowl.
- Toss: Drizzle the Dijon mustard Vinegrette Dressing and sprinkle the roasted almond.