Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe – A Creamy, Crunchy Delight

One of my fondest summer memories growing up was the aroma of broccoli salad mingling with grilled meats on warm evenings. My grandmother, Nonna Lucia, had her own take on this dish always a little creamy, with a surprising crunch that made it unforgettable. Years later, when I first tasted the Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad, it transported me right back to her rustic kitchen in Naples. That inspired me to recreate and perfect this delightful American classic with a wholesome twist that pays homage to both my roots and the Southern comfort it represents.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, or simply need a vibrant side dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy, this chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe hits the mark. Let’s dig into how you can bring this dish to life in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tangy dressing pairs beautifully with sweet raisins and salty bacon.
Great for All Seasons: Light enough for summer, hearty enough for winter gatherings.
Easy to Prepare: Minimal cooking and quick assembly make this a weeknight winner.
Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens!

🍴 What Makes Chicken Salad Chick’s Broccoli Salad So Irresistible?

At first glance, it may seem like just another broccoli salad. But don’t be fooled this dish brings together creamy, tangy, salty, and sweet in perfect harmony. The crunchy texture of raw broccoli, the creaminess of the mayo-honey dressing, bursts of sweetness from raisins, and that glorious bacon crunch are what make it unforgettable.

This is more than just a salad; it’s a layered experience that speaks to Southern hospitality and thoughtful ingredient pairing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need for a dish that serves 5:

For the Salad:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
½ small red onion, finely chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
¼ cup sunflower seeds (optional, for extra crunch)

For the Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for richness)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Broccoli

Rinse and dry your broccoli florets thoroughly. For the best texture, chop them into bite-sized pieces. You can blanch the florets for 30 seconds if you prefer a slightly tender crunch, but traditionally, this salad uses raw broccoli.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as needed. The balance between creamy and tangy is the secret here!

3. Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, red onion, cheddar cheese, raisins, and crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly.

Pro Tip: Toss in the sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain their crunch.

🧠 Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~380
Protein	9g
Carbs	12g
Fiber	3g
Fat	32g
Sugar	7g

Note: For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt.

🥬 Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli isn’t just a filler it’s a nutritional powerhouse:

Vitamin C & K: Boosts immunity and bone health.
Fiber: Helps digestion and satiety.
Antioxidants: Fights inflammation and oxidative stress.

Pairing it with healthy fats from mayo and nutrient-rich add-ins like sunflower seeds enhances its absorption and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Pairing it with a protein-rich ingredient like bacon and adding healthy fats from mayo (especially if made with avocado oil) makes this a nutrient-balanced dish.

🧂 Variations & Substitutions

Customize Your Salad:

Add Protein: Grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas make it a meal.
Go Fruity: Swap raisins with chopped apples or grapes for fresh sweetness.
Make it Vegan: Use vegan mayo and smoky tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Cheese Swap: Try blue cheese or goat cheese for a sharper bite.

Rad more : https://chefnip.com/crispy-jalapeno-cheddar-corn-nuggets/

🥪 What to Serve With Broccoli Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:

With Grilled Meats: Chicken, pork chops, or sausages.
In a Sandwich: Layer it with cold cuts or chicken in a wrap.
As a BBQ Side: Perfect next to baked beans and coleslaw.
With Hearty Soups: Especially in colder months.

Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay complements this salad wonderfully.

Make It Your Own

Variations:

Add Chicken: Turn this into a main course by adding grilled chicken breast or leftover rotisserie chicken.
Use Greek Yogurt: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
Vegan-Friendly: Swap bacon for smoked tempeh and use vegan mayo.

Substitutions:

Raisins can be replaced with dried cranberries for a tart bite.
Red onion can be substituted with green onions for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile. Here’s how I love to serve it:

As a side to grilled lemon herb chicken
Alongside barbecue pulled pork sliders
In a wrap with grilled tofu for a meatless lunch

Pair it with a chilled lemonade in summer or a warm herb tea in winter it’s a dish that adapts to the seasons.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor improves with time!
Make Ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance, but add crunchy toppings like sunflower seeds or nuts just before serving.

Why This Version Wins

This copycat chicken salad chick broccoli salad recipe isn’t just a mimic it’s a tribute. By using fresh ingredients and a balanced homemade dressing, you elevate a humble side dish into something worth sharing and savoring.

🧑‍🍳 A Dish with a Story

Chicken Salad Chick started as a small southern eatery in Auburn, Alabama, and quickly became a beloved franchise for its fresh, homey dishes. Their broccoli salad became one of the star sides because of its balance of indulgence and health. When I recreated this dish, I wanted to bring that same feeling to my own family table just like my Nonna used to do.

💡 Pro Cooking Tips

Let It Sit: Don’t skip the chilling step. Time transforms this salad.
Finely Chop Onions: So they blend without overpowering.
Double the Dressing: For meal prepping or an extra drizzle later.
Mix by Hand: Gently folding helps maintain texture.

Reader Tip!

Have you made this salad? Try adding chopped apple or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh zing! Share your tweaks in the comments I’d love to see how you make it your own.

Community Comment Corner

“I made this with Greek yogurt and turkey bacon and it was a hit at our Sunday brunch!” – Maria T.

“Love how customizable this recipe is I tossed in roasted almonds and it was divine.” – James D.

Let us know in the comments how you made this salad your own!

1 Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe – Easy & Creamy!