Easy Crave-Worthy Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe for Lunch
Chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe brings together the perfect combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy dressing that will satisfy your cravings for something both nutritious and delicious. This copycat recipe captures the essence of the popular restaurant version while allowing you to customize it to your personal taste preferences.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to your next potluck, this protein-packed broccoli salad delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The contrast between the crunchy vegetables and tender chicken creates a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more.
The Perfect Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Ingredients
Everything You Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched and chopped
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional)
- ⅓ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds (optional)
How This Chicken Salad Is Different
This broccoli-based chicken salad focuses on crunchy vegetables and texture rather than a smooth, creamy base. It works more as a hearty side dish.
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Chicken Salad
How to Make It Perfectly
- Cook and shred the chicken. For best results, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder before cooking. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before shredding to maintain moisture. Set aside.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This quick-cooking method preserves the bright green color and creates the perfect tender-crisp texture. Drain thoroughly and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and dried cranberries if using. The mixture should look colorful and well-distributed.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. If using, add the honey and Dijon mustard for a touch of sweetness and tang that balances the flavors perfectly.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the broccoli and make the salad mushy.
- If using cheese and nuts, fold them in gently after the dressing has been incorporated. This prevents them from getting lost in the initial mixing.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Pro Tips & Delicious Variations for Your Chicken Broccoli Salad
Simple Ways to Customize the Recipe
- For extra crunch: Toast your almonds or sunflower seeds in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the salad. This simple step enhances their flavor and provides an even more satisfying texture contrast.
- Make it tangier: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for a more pronounced tangy flavor that brightens the entire dish.
- Protein boost: Include a quarter cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for an indulgent flavor boost that complements the broccoli beautifully.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or cubed firm tofu for a vegetarian version that still delivers on protein.
- Make it lighter: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, higher-protein version with the same creamy texture.
- Sweet variation: Add diced apple or halved grapes for additional natural sweetness and freshness that works wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
Salad Dressings That Pair Well With Chicken Broccoli Salad
Complementary Homemade Dressings
- For a more herb-forward flavor profile, try this Easy Homemade Mediterranean Green Goddess Dressing that adds a fresh dimension to the chicken and broccoli combination.
- If you’re a garlic lover, the Creamy Garlic Dressing Recipe offers a robust alternative that complements the mild flavors of chicken and broccoli perfectly.
- For a lighter, brighter option, especially during summer months, the Zesty Lemon Basil Vinaigrette cuts through the richness with its vibrant citrus notes.
What to Serve With Your Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad
Perfect Meal Pairings
This versatile chicken broccoli salad works beautifully as both a main dish and a side. For a complete meal, serve it alongside crusty whole grain bread or warm pita. The combination of the cool, creamy salad with warm bread creates a satisfying textural contrast that elevates the entire dining experience.
For a lighter lunch option, consider serving this salad on a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach to add even more nutritional value. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this excellent broccoli salad recipe that offers additional serving suggestions.
Complete Your Menu
For a more substantial meal, pair this high-protein salad with a light soup like tomato bisque or butternut squash soup. The warm soup and cool salad create a balanced meal that satisfies all your taste buds. During summer months, consider serving it alongside grilled corn on the cob or fresh watermelon slices for a seasonal feast that highlights fresh produce.
If you’re hosting a gathering, this broccoli chicken salad makes a standout addition to a buffet spread. Place it near complementary dishes like deviled eggs, hummus with vegetable crudités, or a colorful fruit platter to create a well-rounded selection that offers something for everyone.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Broccoli Chicken Salad
How to Store It Safely
This chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and advance preparation for gatherings. To maintain optimal freshness, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day, as the ingredients have time to meld together.
If you’re preparing this salad in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until shortly before serving. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and maintains their delightful crunch. When storing leftovers, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container to minimize air exposure.
For meal prep purposes, you can portion the salad into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Give the container a gentle shake or stir before eating to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh it.
FAQs About chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe
Can I make this chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, you can prepare it up to 24 hours before serving. If making more than a day ahead, consider storing the dressing separately and combining just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Is there a way to make this broccoli chicken salad recipe healthier?
Yes, there are several ways to lighten this recipe. You can substitute the mayonnaise completely with Greek yogurt for a higher protein, lower fat version. Another option is using light mayonnaise or avocado oil mayonnaise. For additional nutrients, try adding more vegetables like grated carrots or diced bell peppers.
How can I ensure my broccoli has the perfect texture in this salad?
The key to perfect broccoli in this salad is proper blanching. Make sure your water is at a full boil before adding the broccoli, and don’t exceed the 2-minute cooking time. The ice bath afterward is crucial—it stops the cooking process immediately while preserving the bright green color and crisp-tender texture. Be sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly before adding it to the salad to prevent watery dressing.
Final Thoughts on This Delicious Protein Salad
Final Thoughts
The chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, this high-protein salad delivers satisfaction and nutrition in every bite. The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to your personal preferences while still maintaining that signature taste that makes it so beloved.
Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week, planning a picnic, or hosting a gathering, this broccoli chicken salad is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and delicious flavor profile. The contrast between the crunchy broccoli, tender chicken, and creamy dressing creates a textural symphony that keeps you coming back for more. By following the tips and variations shared in this recipe, you’ll be able to create a salad that perfectly suits your taste while providing excellent nutritional value.
This chicken salad chick broccoli salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile culinary template that you can return to again and again, making it truly a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this delicious protein-packed salad that’s sure to become a favorite for both weekday lunches and special occasions.
Other Salads to Try
Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook and shred the chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking for best flavor. Set aside to cool.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain thoroughly and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and dried cranberries if using.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. If using, add honey and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- If using cheese and almonds, fold them in gently after the dressing has been incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Notes
- For meal prep, store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To keep the broccoli crisp, blanch it just until bright green – don’t overcook it.
- For a lighter version, replace all mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor and crunch.
