For those of us who love the creamy and satisfying Costco chicken salad but don’t always want to make the trip to the store, this recipe is a game-changer. Making your own version at home means you can skip any preservatives and use fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Whether you need a quick lunch, a potluck crowd-pleaser, or an easy meal prep idea, this copycat Costco chicken salad recipe is here for you. It’s flavorful, customizable, and perfect to keep in the fridge for busy days! You can also enjoy a classic chicken salad recipe for a timeless, no-fail option.

Ingredients

3-pound cooked rotisserie-style chicken, shredded
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream (use dairy-free if needed)
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/2 lemon, juiced (about 1 tablespoon)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
2 teaspoons sugar (optional for sugar-free diets)
6 celery ribs, finely diced
1/2 white onion, finely diced

Cooking Time

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: No cooking needed
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Equipment

Food processor or sharp knife
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Spoon for mixing

How to Make This Recipe?

When making this chicken salad, you’re combining the best of textures and flavors. From creamy mayo dressing to crunchy veggies, each bite is irresistible. I like to take my time shredding the chicken finely, as it mimics the Costco version perfectly. If you’re a fan of twists, you might go for a chicken salad recipe with grapes to add a bit of sweet surprise.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by shredding your cooked chicken. If you have a food processor, pulse the chicken in small batches for finer texture. Otherwise, use two forks or chop finely with a knife. Place the shredded chicken in a large bowl and set it aside while you prepare the dressing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Add salt and sugar, and stir until smooth. This creamy dressing brings all the ingredients together.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the shredded chicken. Gently add the diced celery and onion. Mix everything thoroughly until the dressing is evenly distributed. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it cold, and enjoy its refreshed, tangy taste. It’s even better the next day, once the ingredients are fully infused!

Why I Love Making This Recipe?

For me, making this chicken salad is a nostalgic and practical choice. It reminds me of simpler lunches at family gatherings where we’d enjoy a heaping spoonful on toast or crackers. Plus, I love knowing exactly what’s in my food. With this recipe, I can choose organic ingredients and tweak the flavors to suit my family’s preferences. There’s something very rewarding about recreating a store-bought dish at home, and this one always hits the spot.

Tips and Variations

Making this recipe is already simple, but here are tips to elevate it even further based on what worked for me:

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for less fat and a tangier twist.
Add your favorite mix-ins like chopped grapes, walnuts, or toasted almonds for texture.
Fresh dill or parsley can brighten the flavor.
If you prefer less vinegar, reduce it by a teaspoon, especially if making it in advance.
I love using red onion for a milder flavor if I’m out of white onion.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it on a bed of fresh greens, scooped into a croissant for a decadent sandwich, or with crackers for a quick snack. It’s also delicious as a filling for wraps or alongside roasted veggies. Those looking for a bolder flavor might enjoy a curry chicken salad recipe, which incorporates warm spices for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Storage and Leftovers

Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you prep it in advance, give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. This recipe doesn’t freeze well, so enjoy it fresh.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 240
Protein: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fat: 16 g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This recipe is foolproof, but here are a few things to watch out for to ensure the best results:

Over-shredding the chicken can turn the texture mushy. Aim for fine but not overly processed chicken.
Skipping the chilling step will prevent the flavors from fully developing. Make sure to chill it for at least an hour.
Adding too much celery or onion can overpower the other flavors. Stick to the suggested quantities or adjust in small increments.
Using warm chicken can cause the dressing to separate. Always make sure your chicken has cooled completely before mixing.

With this recipe, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for it whenever you need something easy, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy!

Ash Tyrrell