Costco Chicken Salad Recipe is a fan favorite — and for good reason. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner spread. But let’s face it, while it may be tasty, it’s not always the healthiest option. Costco’s version often contains some ingredients that are far from natural, like preservatives and unnecessary additives. Not to mention, it can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
If you’ve been craving that classic chicken salad flavor but want a healthier option, you’re in the right place! In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make a simple, healthier shredded chicken salad that mimics Costco’s version, but with clean ingredients and better nutrition. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep!
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Why This Costco Chicken Salad Recipe Is So Good
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy chicken salad, look no further. This recipe is packed with flavor, and best of all, it’s made with clean and simple ingredients. Here’s why this shredded chicken salad will quickly become your new favorite:
- Easy to Make with Few Ingredients: This costco chicken salad recipe is simple! It doesn’t require any complex steps or exotic ingredients. Just a few fresh vegetables, chicken, and a few pantry staples.
- Quick Chicken Shredding Trick: No need for fancy equipment — I’ll show you how to shred chicken with two forks, a stand mixer, or even a food processor for the perfect texture every time.
- Rotisserie Chicken Option: Save time by using Costco’s rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken to make this dish even quicker!
- Diet-Friendly: This shredded chicken salad is dairy-free, paleo, Whole30-compliant, and low-carb — so it suits a variety of dietary needs.
- Flavorful: The addition of sweet onions and celery gives the salad a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe yields a large batch, so it’s perfect for meal prepping and making ahead for busy days. You’ll have a healthy, satisfying meal on hand at all times!
Ingredient Sourcing and Compliant Options
One of the best parts of this costco chicken salad recipe is that it’s flexible — you can source your ingredients in various ways to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Chicken: When it comes to the chicken, you have options. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, or you can opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re following a Whole30 diet, avoid Costco’s rotisserie chicken as it may contain added sugars and preservatives.
To keep the recipe compliant with Whole30, look for rotisserie chickens from stores that do not add sugar or other non-compliant ingredients. Alternatively, cook your own chicken breasts in chicken broth to make this recipe more nutritious.
Mayonnaise: For the creamy base, mayonnaise is key. However, if you’re following Whole30 or avoiding dairy, opt for compliant Whole30 mayo brands like Primal Kitchen or Tessemae’s. These are free from preservatives and contain only natural oils.
Chicken Broth/Stock: You’ll need chicken broth or chicken stock to help bind the chicken salad together and adjust the texture. Just make sure to choose a Whole30-compliant chicken broth without added sugars or preservatives.
Onions: Regular white onions work best for a lower-carb version of the salad. The sweetness of sweet onions adds a burst of flavor, but you can opt for a more neutral option if you prefer a milder taste.
Costco Chicken Salad Recipe Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this simple, yet flavorful shredded chicken salad recipe:
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 1/4 pounds of cooked chicken)
- 1 32-ounce carton chicken broth or chicken stock
- 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise (more to taste)
- 2 cups finely diced celery
- 3/4 cup finely minced sweet onion
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or 2 teaspoons Everything Seasoning)
- 1 1/2 – 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
How to Shred Chicken Breasts Easily
Shredding chicken can sometimes feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few easy ways to get perfectly shredded chicken every time:
- Two Forks (Old School): The classic method. Simply use two forks to pull the cooked chicken apart. It’s a little more time-consuming, but it gets the job done!
- Stand Mixer: If you have a stand mixer (like a KitchenAid), just toss the cooked chicken in the bowl and use the paddle attachment on a low speed. Within seconds, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken!
- Hand Mixer: If you don’t have a stand mixer, a regular hand mixer can also do the job. Just shred the chicken in a large bowl using the mixer’s beaters.
- Food Processor: For the best texture, you can use a food processor to shred the chicken quickly. Just pulse until you reach your desired consistency!
How to Make the Costco Chicken Salad Recipe
Ready to get started? Here’s how to bring everything together:
1.Cook the Chicken:
For raw chicken, place the boneless chicken breasts into a large pot with chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Alternatively, if you’re using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step and move on to shredding the chicken.
2.Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use one of the methods above to shred it. Be sure to remove the skin if you’re using rotisserie chicken.
3.Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, onion, pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well-combined.
4.Adjust Texture
Gradually add chicken broth (about 4-6 tablespoons) to achieve the desired consistency. You want the salad to be creamy but not too runny.
5.Taste and Adjust
Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or mayonnaise as per your preferences.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Costco Chicken Salad Recipe
- Adjust Consistency: If you like a creamier chicken salad, add more mayonnaise or chicken broth.
- Texture Perfection: Add the chicken broth gradually to avoid making the salad too soupy.
- Costco’s Shredded Chicken: If you’re in a pinch, you can use Costco’s shredded rotisserie chicken — but note that it may not be Whole30-compliant due to additives.
Costco Chicken Salad Recipe Variations
You can also make this shredded chicken salad your own by adding different flavor combinations:
- Tarragon Chicken Salad: Add 1/4 cup minced fresh tarragon and a handful of sliced almonds.
- Grapes and Green Apple: Add 2 cups sliced red grapes and 2 cups diced green apple for a sweet twist.
- Dried Cranberries and Walnuts: Mix in 1 cup dried cranberries and 1 cup chopped walnuts for a nutty, tangy version.
- Chipotle Mayonnaise: Substitute chipotle mayo for a smoky flavor.
- Southern Chicken Salad: Add 3-4 chopped hard-boiled eggs for a Southern-inspired twist.
Nutrition Information
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions About the Costco Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the costco chicken salad recipe?
Yes, you can! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. However, if you’re following a Whole30 diet or prefer to avoid preservatives and added sugars, be sure to use rotisserie chicken that’s compliant with your dietary preferences. You can also opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you want to have full control over the ingredients.
Can I make this costco chicken salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This shredded chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. You can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In fact, it often tastes even better the following day as the flavors have had a chance to blend.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken salad in a sealed container and refrigerate it. It will last for 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly after being stored.
Can I freeze this shredded chicken salad?
We recommend not freezing this costco chicken salad recipe as it contains mayonnaise, which can change in texture when frozen and thawed. The chicken itself can be frozen, but it’s best to store the salad fresh.
How can I adjust the seasoning?
You can easily adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to match your personal preferences. You can also add extra ingredients like herbs (tarragon, parsley), spices (paprika, garlic powder), or citrus (lemon juice) to make the salad more flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables or fruits to this salad?
Definitely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can add diced apples, grapes, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. You can also throw in some chopped cucumbers or carrots for more crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is dairy-free as long as you use a compliant mayonnaise (like Primal Kitchen or Tessemae’s). If you want to add creaminess without dairy, you can also substitute with avocado or a vegan mayo.
How can I make the chicken salad more creamy?
To make the chicken salad creamier, simply add more mayonnaise to your liking. You can also incorporate a bit more chicken broth to achieve a smoother texture if you prefer a lighter consistency.
Is this costco chicken salad recipe Whole30 compliant?
Yes, this recipe can be made Whole30-compliant by using compliant mayonnaise and ensuring your chicken broth is Whole30-friendly (without added sugars or preservatives). Just be sure to use a sugar-free rotisserie chicken if you choose to go that route!
How can I make the costco chicken salad recipe low-carb?
This shredded chicken salad is already low-carb, making it a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. If you’re looking to reduce carbs further, just be mindful of any fruit or additional ingredients you add (like grapes or apples), which can increase the carb count.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
This Shredded Chicken Salad (Costco Style) is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and healthier ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal prep option, a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, or just a tasty lunch, this recipe ticks all the boxes. By using wholesome ingredients and offering customizable options, it’s easy to make this salad work for Whole30, paleo, or even low-carb diets.
With a quick chicken shredding trick, simple steps, and the freedom to adjust the flavors to your liking, you’ll have a dish that’s just as satisfying as Costco’s, but without the extra additives and preservatives. Plus, it’s a great way to boost your meal prep game and ensure you have a healthy, flavorful option on hand for the week.
Give this costco chicken salad recipe a try today and discover how easy it is to recreate a beloved Costco classic, but with a homemade twist that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Don’t forget to share it with family and friends — they’ll love it too!
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