McAlister’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Creamy, crunchy, and just the right amount of sweetness—that’s what makes McAlister’s chicken salad so addictive!

Poaching the chicken keeps it from drying out, but shredding it while it’s still warm helps it absorb more of the dressing.

Instead of using all mayo, I mix in a little bit of sour cream for a smoother consistency.

Pecans and celery add a great crunch, but the best part is the burst of sweetness from fresh grapes.

This is the kind of recipe that works just as well piled onto a croissant as it does straight out of the bowl!

How to Make McAlister’s Chicken Salad

Ingredients

• 3 cups Chicken Breast (cooked and shredded)
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Celery (diced)
• 1/2 cup Red Grapes (halved)
• 1/4 cup Onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup Almonds (sliced)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Shred your cooked chicken breast and place it in a mixing bowl.

Step 2:

Add the mayonnaise, diced celery, halved red grapes, and finely chopped onion.

Step 3:

Sprinkle in the sliced almonds, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper for added flavor.

Step 4:

Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 5:

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always use fresh ingredients, especially for the chicken and produce, to get the best flavor outcome and enhance the taste.

Adjust Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your personal taste preference, or substitute with your favorite spices.

Serve Variations

Enjoy this chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or a topping for whole grain crackers.

Store Properly

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep it fresh.

What to Serve with McAlister’s Chicken Salad

Fresh Green Salad

Pair McAlister’s Chicken Salad with a fresh green salad to add a refreshing crunch to your meal.

I like using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a burst of color and flavor.

A light vinaigrette dressing works beautifully here, offering just the right tang!

Whole Wheat Crackers

Whole wheat crackers are another fantastic option to serve with the chicken salad.

The crispy texture complements the creaminess of the salad perfectly, creating a lovely contrast.

You can use them as a base for hors d’oeuvres by topping each cracker with a spoonful of chicken salad.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

For something a bit more unique, try serving grilled pineapple slices alongside your chicken salad.

The sweet and smoky flavors from the grilled pineapple pair surprisingly well with the savory notes in the salad.

Plus, the pineapple adds a pop of color and sweetness that your guests will love.

Lentil Soup

A hearty lentil soup makes a great companion to McAlister’s Chicken Salad, especially on a cooler day.

The rich and earthy flavors of the soup balance nicely with the lightness of the salad.

This combo makes for a great-tasting and nutritious meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Try serving the chicken salad with stuffed bell peppers for a novel twist.

Stuffed with quinoa and cheese, the peppers add a burst of flavor and nutrients.

Just slice the peppers in half and grill them for a few minutes to enhance their sweetness before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives

You can swap chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different protein twist.

These alternatives keep the salad delicious!

Spicy Twist

Adding a fiery kick to your chicken salad is easy.

Incorporate hot sauce or diced jalapeños.

Adjust the spice according to your preference.

Healthier Customizations

Opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

This switch reduces calories and adds a creamy texture.

Fruity Enhancements

Incorporate fruits like apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness.

They pair wonderfully with the savory flavors.

How to Store Leftover McAlister’s Chicken Salad

Quick Refrigeration

Once you’ve finished your delicious chicken salad, pop any leftovers into an airtight container.

You don’t want air sneaking in and drying it out!

Your fridge is the best friend you can have here, keeping it fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you think you won’t eat it all soon, freezing is a great option!

Pour your chicken salad into a freezer-safe container.

You can keep it frozen for about 3 months, which is awesome for meal prep!

Thawing Safely

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply move it from the freezer to the fridge.

Let it thaw there overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Avoid leaving it out at room temp for too long; keep it safe and delicious!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Mashing the Chicken

When making McAlister’s chicken salad, you might be tempted to over-mash the chicken.

It’s important to keep some texture, so avoid turning it into a puree.

A mix of shredded and diced pieces usually works best for a good bite.

Skimping on Seasoning

One common trap is not adding enough seasoning.

Without the right amount of salt, pepper, and spices, your salad may fall flat.

Taste as you mix so you can adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Using Too Much Mayonnaise

It can be easy to add too much mayonnaise, thinking it will make the salad creamier.

Too much will overpower the other flavors and make the mix soggy.

Add mayonnaise in small amounts and find the balance that works for you.