Craving the ultimate blend of creamy, crunchy, cheesy goodness? This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is a spot-on copycat that delivers on flavor, texture, and family-friendly comfort. Whether you’re prepping for a summer BBQ, a quick weeknight dinner, or a potluck that needs a crowd-pleaser, this is the salad everyone will rave about.
Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe (Copycat Perfection!)
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Copycat Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe that’s creamy, crunchy, cheesy, and packed with bacon. Easy to make and perfect for any potluck, BBQ, or dinner.
Ingredients
6 cups broccoli florets
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
¾ cup Duke’s mayonnaise
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup sugar (or honey)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the bacon using your preferred method and crumble it once cooled.
2. Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Optionally blanch for 60 seconds and shock in ice bath.
3. Grate the cheddar and mozzarella cheese from blocks.
4. In a bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Place broccoli in a large mixing bowl and pour the dressing over it.
6. Add cheese and bacon, then toss everything together until well coated.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, add sunflower seeds or walnuts.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter option.
Add grilled chicken to make it a complete meal.
Keep refrigerated and consume within 3–5 days.
Do not freeze.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 475mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 39mg
Keywords: Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe, copycat broccoli salad, easy potluck salad
Why This Salad Is a Southern Staple
Back when we first walked into a Chicken Salad Chick location, we didn’t expect to fall so hard for a side dish. But the first bite of their broccoli salad—cool, tangy, and studded with bacon and cheese—sealed it. It wasn’t just a salad; it was memory-making. And here at Recent Recipe, that’s what cooking is all about.
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe brings that experience home. And we’ve made it even better: more bacon, fresher ingredients, and customizable for your preferences. It’s now a family staple, perfect alongside anything from grilled chicken to oven-baked salmon or even tucked into wraps for lunch.
The best part? You can have it ready in under 20 minutes—and with basic ingredients you likely already have.
A Family-Favorite Recipe That Never Disappoints
Why is this Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe such a go-to?
- Crunchy broccoli gives this salad structure and bite.
- Creamy mayo dressing (yes, Duke’s preferred) binds everything in tangy, slightly sweet goodness.
- Sharp cheddar and mozzarella offer creamy saltiness that balances the sweetness.
- Bacon (the real MVP) delivers that smoky-salty hit that takes it to the next level.
The balance of textures is where this dish shines. Each bite hits you with a mix of cool crunch and creamy melt. Serve it chilled on a hot day, and watch it disappear in minutes.
Another reason it’s a keeper? This is a side dish that travels well. Packed into a lunchbox or served at a potluck, it holds up without going soggy—and tastes even better the next day.
We’ve also included healthier tweaks later in the article, so whether you’re keto-conscious, dairy-free, or just looking to cut sugar, we’ve got you covered. (Yes, there’s even a no mayo version using avocado oil mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.)
The Secret to the Perfect Copycat Version
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is all about balance: crunchy broccoli, smoky bacon, creamy dressing, and the right hit of tang and sweetness. But to really nail the flavor, the quality of your ingredients matters.
Here’s what you need (and why it works):
- Broccoli florets – 6 cups, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Raw broccoli keeps the salad crisp, but blanching for 60 seconds then shocking in ice water gives it a sweeter, more tender bite.
- Bacon – 6 slices, cooked and crumbled. Oven-baked bacon delivers consistent crispness and less mess than frying.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated. Always grate your own—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that dull flavor and texture.
- Mozzarella cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated. Adds a mild, creamy layer to balance the sharpness of the cheddar.
- Duke’s mayonnaise – ¾ cup. The gold standard in Southern kitchens—rich, tangy, and perfectly thick.
- Apple cider vinegar (Bragg’s preferred) – ¼ cup. Adds acidity that cuts the richness of the mayo.
- Sugar – ¼ cup. Balances the acidity and rounds out the flavors. For a healthier option, swap with honey or maple syrup.
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon each.
These simple ingredients, when used well, create a flavor bomb that’s tangy, savory, and just the right touch of sweet.
Step-by-Step: From Broccoli Bunch to Table-Ready Salad
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
Wash and dry broccoli thoroughly. Trim off the tough stems and chop into small, bite-sized florets. For a softer texture, blanch the florets in boiling water for 60 seconds, then transfer them immediately to an ice water bath. Drain and pat dry.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Lay 6 slices of bacon on a foil-lined sheet pan. Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or until crisp. Let cool on paper towels, then crumble into pieces. You can also pan-fry, but baking is easier and cleaner.
Step 3: Grate Your Cheese
Grate sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese from the block using a box grater. You’ll get better flavor and a smoother melt.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¾ cup Duke’s mayonnaise, ¼ cup Bragg’s apple cider vinegar, and ¼ cup sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a refined sweetness, try honey instead of sugar.
Step 5: Combine
Place the broccoli florets in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over them and toss well to coat every piece. Add in the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon, then toss again gently.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Seal the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour. This gives the flavors time to meld and the broccoli to soak up the dressing. Serve cold.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 6 cups |
| Crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled | 6 slices |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | ½ cup |
| Duke’s mayonnaise | ¾ cup |
| Apple cider vinegar (Bragg’s preferred) | ¼ cup |
| Granulated sugar or honey | ¼ cup |
| Salt and freshly ground pepper | ¼ teaspoon each |
Turn It Into a Full Meal or Just Mix It Up
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is already packed with flavor, but what makes it a long-term favorite is how customizable it is. Whether you want to turn it into a complete meal or tailor it to your dietary needs, here’s how to do it without compromising the texture or taste.
Make It a Meal
Turn this salad from side dish to main course with protein add-ins:
- Grilled chicken breast – chopped or shredded for clean protein
- Rotisserie chicken – quick, flavorful, and low effort
- Shredded turkey – a leaner alternative that works beautifully
This is an easy upgrade that makes it suitable for lunch prep or a light dinner.
Add More Crunch
Texture is everything. Add-ins can completely change the experience while keeping the base recipe intact.
- Sunflower seeds – salty and toasty, they amplify the crunch
- Walnuts or pecans – earthy and buttery for added richness
- Pistachios – colorful, slightly sweet, and unexpected
- Chopped celery – classic crunch and mild bitterness
Bring in Some Sweetness
Balance the savory with subtle sweetness that makes every bite more dynamic:
- Dried cranberries – tart and chewy
- Golden raisins – mellow, slightly tangy
- Chopped dried cherries – a deeper, richer sweetness
Dial Up the Savory Edge
Want more contrast? Layer in these:
- Diced red onion – punchy and vibrant
- Green onions or chives – mild sharpness
- Bell pepper – color and crunch without spice
- Crumbled feta or blue cheese – for a bold, tangy note
Each of these variations works with the original flavor profile, so mix and match to fit your taste or what’s in your fridge.
Healthier or Allergy-Friendly Options
If you’re looking for a lighter, allergy-safe, or cleaner ingredient list, this Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe can easily flex to your needs.
No Mayo? No Problem.
Try these alternatives for a lighter or dairy-free base:
- Greek yogurt – higher protein, tangier flavor
- Avocado oil mayonnaise – neutral and lighter
- Vegan mayo – great for dairy and egg sensitivities
Ditch the Sugar
Skip refined sugar by swapping:
- Raw honey – smoother, cleaner sweetener
- Maple syrup – deeper caramel tones
- Coconut sugar or monk fruit – low-glycemic options
Make It Dairy-Free
Cheese-free doesn’t have to mean flavor-free:
- Vegan cheddar shreds – look for meltable options
- Leave out the cheese and add extra bacon or nuts to enhance richness.
Gluten-Free? You’re Already Good.
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your bacon and mayo brands to be sure.
How Long Does It Last and How Should You Store It?
Once you’ve made this Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe, proper storage is key to keeping it crisp, creamy, and safe to eat.
Storage Guidelines
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge. We recommend glass containers to preserve flavor and prevent moisture buildup.
- Keeps well for 3–5 days—but it usually disappears much faster!
- Stir before serving leftovers to redistribute dressing and bacon bits.
Safety First: Don’t Leave It Out
Because this recipe contains mayonnaise, it should never be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Mayo-based salads can quickly enter the temperature “danger zone” (40°F–140°F), where bacteria multiply fast.
Can You Freeze It?
No, freezing is not recommended. Raw or blanched broccoli becomes mushy when thawed, and the dressing separates, resulting in a watery mess. Enjoy it fresh or make only what you’ll eat within a few days.
Serving Tips for Parties, Meal Prep & Leftovers
Best Occasions
- Summer BBQs or cookouts – this cold dish stands up to heat (just keep it chilled)
- Holiday potlucks or buffet spreads – easy to prep ahead and transport
- Weeknight dinners – pair with grilled meats from our dinner collection
Make-Ahead Strategy
- For the freshest texture, prep components ahead and toss with dressing just before serving.
- If making the full salad in advance, let it chill for at least 1 hour to help the broccoli absorb the flavor.
How to Use Leftovers Creatively
- Wrap it in a tortilla for a cold veggie wrap
- Spoon over baked potatoes for a hearty lunch
- Add to cold pasta for a quick broccoli pasta salad—similar to California Chicken Café’s version
Pair With:
- Juicy grilled chicken
- Tuna melts or cold-cut sandwiches
- Quiche or egg muffins from our breakfast ideas
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Is broccoli good in chicken salad?
Absolutely. Broccoli brings a fresh crunch and mild bitterness that balances creamy dressings in chicken salads beautifully. When chopped small, it complements proteins without overwhelming.
What unique ingredient makes chicken salad stand out?
The standout in this Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is apple cider vinegar—it adds just the right tang to brighten every bite. Grating your own cheese also deepens flavor.
Does Chicken Salad Chick use mayonnaise?
Yes, their broccoli salad dressing includes mayonnaise—likely Duke’s, given its Southern roots. It’s rich, slightly tangy, and blends perfectly with vinegar and sugar.
What dressing goes in broccoli salad?
A classic mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar forms the base. To lighten it up, try Greek yogurt or honey as substitutions without sacrificing taste.
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe isn’t just a side—it’s a conversation starter, a potluck favorite, and a flavor bomb in every bite. With bacon, sharp cheddar, and crisp broccoli all tied together in a creamy tangy dressing, it’s no wonder people ask for seconds. And with all the variations and meal-prep options we’ve explored, this isn’t just a one-hit wonder—it’s a go-to dish you’ll return to again and again.
Try it with our grilled chicken dinner ideas or serve next to a creamy pasta from our lunch collection. One recipe, endless possibilities.
