Mcalister’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Copycat Mcalister’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Craving the creamy, flavorful chicken salad from McAlister’s Deli? This easy copycat recipe brings that same taste to your kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and packed with texture and flavor. Whether you’re making lunch or planning a picnic, this chicken salad hits the spot. Keep reading to learn exactly how to make it at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate McAlister’s chicken salad at home, you’ll need a mix of simple, fresh ingredients that come together for the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, including a few optional swaps to suit your taste or dietary needs:

Main Ingredients:

Cooked Chicken Breast (2–3 cups, shredded or chopped)

Use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or leftover grilled chicken. Shredded works best for a creamy texture.

Mayonnaise (½ to ¾ cup)

This adds the creamy base. Use regular mayo for the authentic taste or substitute with Greek yogurt or avocado mayo for a healthier option.

Celery (2–3 stalks, finely chopped)

Adds a fresh crunch and balances the creaminess.

Red Onion or Green Onion (2 tablespoons, finely chopped)

For a mild bite. Optional but adds great depth of flavor.

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Basic seasoning that ties the ingredients together.

Optional Add-Ins (Just Like McAlister’s Touch):

Crushed Pineapple or Grapes (¼ cup, chopped)

For a subtle sweetness that elevates the flavor. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering.

Chopped Pecans or Slivered Almonds (2 tablespoons)

Adds crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.

Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon)

For a slight tang if you like your chicken salad with more zing.

Hard-Boiled Eggs (1–2, chopped)

Some versions of chicken salad include chopped egg for added protein and creaminess.

Healthier Alternatives:

Plain Greek Yogurt (replace half or all of the mayo)

Reduces fat and boosts protein while still keeping it creamy.

Olive Oil-Based Mayo or Vegan Mayo

For a lighter or plant-based option.

Low-Sodium Chicken

Especially if you’re watching your salt intake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making McAlister’s-style chicken salad at home is simple and only takes a few key steps. Follow this process for a creamy, well-balanced chicken salad that’s just like the deli favorite:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If using raw chicken breast, boil or bake until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Let it cool completely, then shred or finely chop the chicken. For convenience, rotisserie chicken also works great—just remove skin and bones first.

• Tip: Shredded chicken gives a smoother, more authentic McAlister’s texture.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Add-Ins

Finely dice the celery and onions (red or green). If using grapes, halve or quarter them.

• Optional: Chop nuts or hard-boiled eggs if using.
• Prep everything small: this helps the salad mix well and makes each bite balanced.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl:

• Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and onions.
• Stir in the mayonnaise—start with ½ cup and add more as needed.
• If using sweet add-ins like pineapple or grapes, fold them in gently.
• Add salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of Dijon mustard can also enhance flavor.

Tip: Mix gently to keep the chicken from turning mushy.

Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor

Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows flavors to meld and gives the salad a classic, chilled texture—just like McAlister’s.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop onto sandwich bread, croissants, crackers, or lettuce wraps. Garnish with extra herbs, nuts, or fresh greens if desired.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious chicken salad that rivals McAlister’s comes down to a few simple tricks. These chef-approved tips will help you get the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and freshness every time.

Use Freshly Cooked Chicken When Possible

While rotisserie chicken is convenient, cooking your own allows better control of texture and flavor. Poached or baked chicken breasts are ideal—moist, neutral, and easy to shred.

Tip: Let the chicken cool completely before mixing to avoid a watery salad.

Shred, Don’t Cube (for Authentic Texture)

McAlister’s chicken salad has a soft, spreadable consistency. To mimic this, shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer. Avoid large chunks for better mixing and flavor distribution.

Don’t Overdo the Mayo

Start with less mayo than you think you need. You can always add more, but too much will make the salad heavy and greasy. The goal is creamy—not soupy.

• Tip: Chill the salad first, then check if more mayo is needed before serving.

Dice Ingredients Finely for Even Bites

Celery, onions, grapes, and nuts should be chopped small so no ingredient dominates. Fine dicing ensures every bite has a balanced mix of texture and flavor.

Let It Chill Before Serving

Refrigerating the salad for at least an hour helps the flavors blend and improves the texture. It also firms up the mixture, making it easier to scoop or spread.

Add Sweetness with Restraint

If you enjoy the touch of sweetness found in some chicken salads, go light on the grapes or pineapple. A small amount goes a long way—too much can overwhelm the savory flavors.

Season Gradually

Start with just a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the salad is chilled, taste and adjust. Cold dishes often need a little more seasoning than warm ones.

Optional Boosters for Extra Flavor

Try adding a small splash of lemon juice, a dash of Dijon mustard, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for added brightness and complexity.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about chicken salad is how customizable it is. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier version, have dietary preferences, or just want to mix things up, these variations and substitutions will help you make the recipe your own—without losing that McAlister’s-style charm.

Healthier Swaps

Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise:

Replace half or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. It’s creamy, tangy, and adds protein while cutting down on fat and calories.

Avocado Mayo or Olive Oil Mayo:

Great options if you want a lighter, heart-healthy twist without sacrificing creaminess.

Low-Sodium Chicken and Seasoning:

Ideal for anyone watching their salt intake. Season with fresh herbs or citrus instead of salt-heavy dressings.

Low-Carb or Keto Variation

Skip the Sweet Add-Ins:

Omit grapes, pineapple, or sweet relish to keep the carb count low.

Serve in Lettuce Wraps or Cucumber Boats:

A refreshing and low-carb way to enjoy the salad without bread.

Additions for More Flavor or Texture

Fruits:

Add chopped apples, dried cranberries, or a few halved grapes for a hint of sweetness.

Nuts and Seeds:

Try toasted pecans, slivered almonds, or sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.

Herbs:

Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can brighten the flavor and make the salad feel fresh and gourmet.

Cheese:

A small handful of crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can add richness and depth.

Spicy or Savory Twists

Dijon or Whole-Grain Mustard:

A teaspoon adds tang and a touch of spice.

Paprika or Cayenne Pepper:

For a subtle kick, sprinkle a little in with the seasoning.

Pickle Relish or Chopped Pickles:

Adds a salty, vinegary bite that balances the richness of the mayo.

Dietary Substitutes

Vegan Version:

Use plant-based chicken alternatives (like soy-based or jackfruit) and vegan mayo.

Dairy-Free:

Stick to a mayo-only base or use dairy-free yogurt if substituting.

Egg-Free:

Use egg-free mayo or avocado as the creamy base if allergic to eggs.

Savannah Chopped Salad Inspiration

You can also take a cue from McAlister’s Savannah Chopped Salad by topping your chicken salad with:

• Mixed greens
• Dried cranberries
• Toasted almonds
• Sliced cucumbers
• A drizzle of light vinaigrette

Serving Suggestions

McAlister’s Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of meals and occasions. Whether you’re serving lunch for one or prepping for a gathering, here are some delicious ways to enjoy your homemade chicken salad.

Classic Sandwich Style

On Sandwich Bread:

Use hearty white, whole grain, or sourdough bread for a traditional deli-style sandwich. Add lettuce, tomato, or sprouts for extra texture and freshness.

On a Croissant:

A buttery croissant elevates the chicken salad into a more indulgent, bakery-quality lunch.

With Toasted Bread:

Toasting adds a nice crunch and prevents the bread from getting soggy, especially if prepping ahead.

Lettuce Wraps or Salad Cups

Lettuce Wraps:

Use large romaine, butter lettuce, or iceberg leaves for a crisp, low-carb option. These are great for quick lunches or appetizers.

Endive or Cucumber Boats:

Ideal for parties—fill endive leaves or hollowed cucumber halves for a fresh, bite-sized presentation.

On a Salad Plate

Serve a scoop of chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula.
Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.

• Tip: This is a great way to turn leftovers into a healthy dinner.

As a Wrap or Pita Pocket

Tortilla Wraps:

Roll the chicken salad in a whole wheat or spinach wrap with shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, or cheese.

Pita Pockets:

Stuff into warm pita bread with cucumber slices and red onion for a Mediterranean twist.

With Crackers or Toast Points

Serve the salad as a dip or spread for crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pita chips.
Great for snacks, appetizers, or light lunches.

Stuffed Veggies

Stuffed Tomatoes:

Hollow out ripe tomatoes and fill with chicken salad for a beautiful, refreshing presentation.

Stuffed Avocados:

Scoop chicken salad into halved avocados for a creamy, nutrient-rich option.

Picnic or Meal Prep Option

Portion chicken salad into individual containers with fruit, crackers, or cut veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Savannah Salad Twist

Inspired by McAlister’s Savannah Chopped Salad, top greens with chicken salad, dried cranberries, cucumbers, and almonds. Finish with a light vinaigrette or a drizzle of honey mustard dressing.

Storage and Leftovers

Proper storage is key to keeping your McAlister’s-style chicken salad fresh, safe, and flavorful. Whether you’re making it ahead or saving leftovers, here’s everything you need to know about storing and reusing this classic dish.

How to Store Chicken Salad

Use an Airtight Container:

Transfer the chicken salad to a clean, airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.

Refrigerate Promptly:

Chicken salad should be refrigerated within 2 hours of preparation to keep it safe to eat. If you’re packing it for lunch, keep it chilled with an ice pack.

Storage Time:

Properly stored, chicken salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Stir Before Serving Again:

After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir before serving. The mayo may slightly separate or absorb into the chicken, so refreshing it helps restore the creamy texture.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended.

Why It Doesn’t Freeze Well:

Mayonnaise tends to separate and become watery after freezing, which ruins the salad’s texture.
Celery can also lose its crunch and become limp.

Freezer-Friendly Tip:

If you want to make a freezer-friendly version, freeze just the cooked, shredded chicken. Add fresh ingredients and mayo after thawing.

How to Tell If It’s Gone Bad

• Smell: Sour or off smells are a clear sign it’s no longer safe to eat.
• Texture: If the mixture looks slimy, watery, or separated beyond repair, it should be discarded.
• Appearance: Mold or discoloration means it’s time to toss it.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken salad and want to avoid repetition, here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Make Chicken Salad Melts:

Spread on toast, top with cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.

Add to Pasta:

Stir chicken salad into cooled cooked pasta for a quick pasta salad variation.

Stuff into Bell Peppers:

Halve and hollow out bell peppers, then fill them with chilled chicken salad for a fresh twist.

Mini Sandwiches or Sliders:

Great for entertaining or turning leftovers into party bites.

Baked Crescent Roll Cups:

Scoop into baked puff pastry or crescent roll cups for a warm, savory snack.

Nutrition Information (Estimated)

Understanding the nutritional content of your homemade McAlister’s chicken salad can help you make informed choices—especially if you’re watching your calories, fat intake, or following a specific diet. Below is a general estimate based on a standard serving size and common ingredients.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

(Serving size: ½ cup of classic chicken salad with mayo)

• Calories: ~250–300 kcal
• Protein: 18–22g
• Fat: 18–22g
• Saturated Fat: 3–4g
• Carbohydrates: 2–6g
• Sugar: 1–3g
• Fiber: 0–1g
• Sodium: 400–600mg
• Cholesterol: 60–80mg

These values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

Key Factors That Affect Nutrition

Type of Chicken Used:

Grilled or baked chicken without skin will be lower in fat and calories compared to rotisserie chicken.

Amount and Type of Mayonnaise:

Traditional mayo adds fat and calories. Light, olive oil-based, or Greek yogurt substitutions can significantly lower those numbers.

Add-Ins Like Nuts and Fruits:

While nutritious, nuts and dried fruits add extra calories and sugar. Use them in moderation if needed.

Serving Style:

The nutrition content increases when served with bread, croissants, or wraps. Opt for lettuce wraps or low-carb options to keep it lighter.

Healthier Version Estimate

(Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo, minimal sweet add-ins)

• Calories: ~180–220 kcal
• Protein: 20–25g
• Fat: 8–12g
• Carbohydrates: 2–4g
• Sugar: 1–2g
• Sodium: 300–450mg

Tips for Tracking Nutrition Accurately

• Use a kitchen scale and a nutrition calculator or app (like MyFitnessPal or Cronometer) to enter exact ingredient amounts.
• Measure mayo and mix-ins carefully—they make the biggest difference in calorie and fat content.
• Don’t forget to factor in what you serve it with (bread, crackers, salad greens, etc.).

Savannah Chopped Salad Inspiration

While McAlister’s Chicken Salad is a fan favorite, another standout menu item is their Savannah Chopped Salad. If you love the fresh, sweet-and-savory flavor profile of that dish, you can use it as inspiration to take your chicken salad presentation to the next level—or even turn it into a hearty, deli-style meal salad.

What’s in McAlister’s Savannah Chopped Salad?

The classic McAlister’s Savannah Chopped Salad typically includes:

• Grilled Chicken
• Mixed greens
• Diced tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Dried cranberries
• Gorgonzola cheese
• Honey-roasted almonds
• Sherry shallot vinaigrette

How to Incorporate Chicken Salad into a Savannah-Style Dish

If you already have the chicken salad made, here’s how to build a Savannah-inspired meal around it:

Savannah Chicken Salad Bowl (No Cooking Required)

Base:

Start with a generous bed of mixed greens or romaine lettuce.

Top with Chicken Salad:

Add a heaping scoop of your homemade chicken salad (in place of grilled chicken).

Add These Toppings:

• Diced cucumbers for crunch
• Halved cherry tomatoes for freshness
• Dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness
• Crumbled blue cheese or Gorgonzola for tangy richness
• Sliced or chopped honey-roasted almonds for sweet crunch

Optional: Add thin red onion slices or shredded carrots for extra flavor and color.

Drizzle with Dressing:

Use a sherry shallot vinaigrette if you can find it, or substitute with balsamic vinaigrette, raspberry vinaigrette, or a light honey mustard dressing.

Quick Sherry Shallot Vinaigrette Recipe (Optional)

If you want to replicate the flavor of McAlister’s dressing, here’s a quick version:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon finely minced shallot
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Whisk together the vinegar, mustard, shallot, and honey.
• Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
• Season with salt and pepper.

Serving Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prep: store components separately and assemble before serving. You can also serve mini versions in cups or jars for a party or picnic.

Conclusion

McAlister’s chicken salad is beloved for its creamy texture, balanced flavor, and versatility—and now you can enjoy it anytime at home. With simple ingredients, helpful chef tips, and endless ways to serve and customize it, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or a quick, satisfying lunch. Whether you stick to the classic or put your own twist on it, one thing’s certain: this chicken salad will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.