Calvin’s Chicken Salad Recipe | Guest will love it

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Calvin’s chicken salad recipe, you’re in the right place.

This flavorful dish is inspired by the beloved restaurant classic and brings the same fresh, satisfying taste straight to your home kitchen.

Made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds, this copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe delivers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that’s both comforting and refreshing.

This homemade chicken salad recipe is ideal for anyone who loves simple ingredients combined in a delicious way.

The creamy dressing lightly coats each bite without overpowering the natural flavors, making it a versatile option for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own.

Whether you’re preparing lunch for the week or need a quick yet wholesome meal, this Calvin’s chicken salad fits effortlessly into your routine.

Perfect for family meals, picnics, or entertaining guests, this dish easily earns its place as the best chicken salad recipe to keep on hand.

It’s nutritious, customizable, and packed with restaurant-quality flavor that everyone will love.

Once you try this classic-inspired salad, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.

What is Calvin’s Chicken Salad and How Does It Taste?

Calvin’s chicken salad is a delightfully balanced dish that combines seasoned, tender chicken breast with a medley of fresh, crunchy ingredients.

Unlike traditional heavy chicken salads loaded with mayonnaise, this version uses a lighter Greek yogurt-based dressing that keeps things fresh and healthy.

The flavor profile is complex yet harmonious-you’ll experience savory notes from perfectly seasoned chicken, natural sweetness from diced green apples and dried cranberries, a satisfying crunch from celery and toasted almonds, and a subtle tang from the creamy dressing.

Each bite offers textural variety and a burst of complementary flavors that never feel overwhelming.

This homemade chicken salad recipe tastes clean, bright, and restaurant-worthy while remaining approachable enough for everyday meals.

Calvin’s Chicken Salad Recipe Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 2 large breasts) Halal
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped (about 2–3 stalks)
• 1 medium green apple, diced (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 3 cups lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup sliced or chopped almonds
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For Seasoning the Chicken:

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Utensils Needed

1. Large skillet or frying pan
2. Sharp chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Small mixing bowl
6. Whisk
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Wooden spoon or spatula

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings

Copycat Calvin’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper on both sides.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Remove from heat and let the chicken rest and cool completely-this is crucial for maintaining the salad’s fresh texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Mix-Ins

While your chicken is cooling, wash and finely chop the celery stalks into small, uniform pieces.

Dice the green apple into bite-sized cubes, leaving the skin on for extra color and nutrients.

Thinly slice the green onions and finely dice the red onion. Chop the lettuce into manageable pieces.

If using whole almonds, roughly chop them; if using sliced almonds, you can leave them as is. Measure out the dried cranberries and set all ingredients aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps.

The Greek yogurt lightens the traditional mayo-heavy dressing while adding protein and tang.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed-you can add a pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Step 4: Dice or Shred the Cooled Chicken

Once your chicken has cooled completely (about 10 minutes), transfer it to a cutting board.

You can either dice it into small cubes for a chunky texture or shred it with two forks for a more traditional chicken salad consistency.

Both methods work beautifully in this copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Add the diced or shredded chicken to your large mixing bowl. Layer in the chopped celery, diced green apple, sliced green onions, diced red onion, almonds, and dried cranberries.

The combination of ingredients creates the signature crunch and sweetness that makes this best chicken salad recipe stand out.

Step 6: Dress and Toss the Salad

Pour your prepared Greek yogurt dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the integrity of the apple pieces and keep the almonds crunchy.

Step 7: Serve or Chill

Your Calvin’s chicken salad is now ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately over the bed of chopped lettuce for a fresh, crisp presentation.

Alternatively, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Classic Sandwich Style

Transform your homemade chicken salad recipe into a satisfying sandwich by piling it high between two slices of toasted whole grain bread, a buttery croissant, or a rustic ciabatta roll.

Add extra lettuce and sliced tomatoes for additional freshness. This presentation is perfect for lunch boxes or picnic baskets.

2. Lettuce Wrap Bowls

For a low-carb, keto-friendly option, serve your chicken salad in crisp butter lettuce cups or romaine leaves. This creates a light, refreshing meal that’s ideal for warm weather dining.

The lettuce acts as a natural vessel and adds an extra layer of crunch to complement the salad’s texture.

3. Stuffed Avocado Boats

Halve ripe avocados and remove the pit, then generously fill each half with your Calvin’s chicken salad. This pairing adds healthy fats and creates a beautiful, Instagram-worthy presentation.

The creamy avocado complements the tangy yogurt dressing perfectly while boosting the nutritional profile.

4. Grain Bowl Base

Serve your chicken salad over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or farro for a hearty, filling meal.

The grains add substance and make this dish suitable for dinner rather than just lunch. Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a light vinaigrette to tie everything together.

5. Cracker and Crudité Platter

Present your copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe as part of an elegant appetizer spread. Surround it with whole grain crackers, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper strips for dipping. This makes for excellent party food or a sophisticated snack option.

6. Wrap It Up

Roll your chicken salad in a large whole wheat or spinach tortilla along with extra greens and sliced vegetables.

This portable option is perfect for on-the-go meals, packed lunches, or quick dinners. The wrap format contains all the delicious flavors in an easy-to-eat package.

7. Tomato Cups

For an elegant presentation, hollow out large beefsteak tomatoes and fill them with your best chicken salad recipe.

This creates individual portions that look beautiful on a plate and add a juicy, fresh element to each bite. It’s particularly impressive for luncheons or brunch gatherings.

Essential Tips for the Best Calvin’s Chicken Salad

1. Always Cool Your Chicken Completely

This is perhaps the most critical step in creating the perfect homemade chicken salad recipe. Warm chicken will wilt your vegetables, melt the dressing, and create a soggy, unappetizing texture.

After cooking, let your chicken rest at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or refrigerate it for faster cooling. The wait is worth it for maintaining that signature crisp texture.

2. Choose the Right Apple Variety

Green apples like Granny Smith work best in this Calvin’s chicken salad because their tartness and firm texture hold up well when mixed with the dressing. They won’t become mushy quickly and provide the perfect sweet-tart contrast.

Avoid softer apple varieties like Red Delicious, which can break down and become mealy.

3. Toast Your Almonds for Maximum Flavor

While raw almonds work fine, toasting them in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes until fragrant elevates this copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe significantly.

Toasted nuts release their natural oils and develop a deeper, richer flavor that adds complexity to every bite. Just watch them carefully to prevent burning.

4. Adjust Dressing Consistency to Your Preference

The beauty of making your own dressing is customization. If you prefer a creamier best chicken salad recipe, increase the Greek yogurt ratio.

For a lighter version, use more yogurt and less mayo. You can also thin the dressing with a splash of milk or lemon juice if it seems too thick.

5. Prep Ingredients to Similar Sizes

Uniform chopping ensures every forkful of your Calvin’s chicken salad contains a balanced mix of ingredients. Cut your celery, apple, and onions to roughly the same size as your diced chicken.

This creates visual appeal and ensures no single ingredient dominates the flavor or texture profile.

6. Season Throughout the Process

Don’t rely solely on the dressing for flavor. Season your chicken well before cooking, taste your dressing before adding it, and adjust the final salad with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Building flavor in layers creates a more complex, restaurant-quality homemade chicken salad recipe.

7. Don’t Overdress Initially

Start with about three-quarters of your prepared dressing and mix thoroughly. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.

Some people prefer a lighter coating while others like their chicken salad more heavily dressed.

By starting conservatively, you maintain control over the final texture and can adjust to personal preference.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store your Calvin’s chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The salad tastes best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating.

For optimal freshness, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing just before serving. Keep the lettuce separate and add it fresh when ready to eat to maintain maximum crunch.

Common Queries and FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Calvin’s chicken salad recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saving option for this homemade chicken salad recipe. Simply remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and proceed with the recipe. Just note that rotisserie chicken is already seasoned, so you may want to reduce additional salt.

How can I make this chicken salad dairy-free?

Replace the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt alternatives like coconut yogurt or cashew-based yogurt. Use vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayo. The copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe will maintain its creamy texture while accommodating dairy sensitivities.

What can I substitute for almonds if I have a nut allergy?

Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) make excellent nut-free alternatives that provide similar crunch. You could also use crushed crackers or crispy chickpeas for texture in your best chicken salad recipe.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes! This Calvin’s chicken salad actually benefits from resting in the refrigerator for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, but add the almonds and apple just before serving to prevent sogginess and browning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this homemade chicken salad recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just ensure your mayonnaise and Dijon mustard brands don’t contain gluten additives. When serving, choose gluten-free bread, crackers, or wraps if needed.

How can I add more protein to this salad?

Increase the chicken quantity, add hard-boiled eggs (chopped), mix in chickpeas, or sprinkle hemp seeds over the top. These additions boost the protein content while maintaining the delicious flavor profile of this copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe.

What’s the best way to prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the diced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting. The citric acid prevents oxidation and browning. Alternatively, prepare the apple just before mixing the salad. This keeps your Calvin’s chicken salad looking fresh and appetizing for longer.

This Calvin’s chicken salad recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With its perfect balance of protein-rich chicken, crunchy vegetables, sweet fruit, and creamy-yet-light dressing, this homemade chicken salad recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch solution, elegant entertaining option, or meal prep staple, this best chicken salad recipe delivers on all fronts. The beauty lies in its versatility and simplicity-you can customize it endlessly while keeping the preparation straightforward. Give this copycat Calvin’s chicken salad recipe a try, and you’ll discover why it’s become a beloved favorite!

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