Chick fil A Kale Salad Recipe: A Perfect Copycat Dish

Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad served in a bowl with dressing on the side

Chick fil A’s Kale Crunch Salad has earned a devoted following for its perfect balance of fresh greens, crunch, and tangy-sweet dressing. A simple yet satisfying dish, it pairs well as a side to their signature chicken or serves as a light stand-alone meal. However, what if you could enjoy this delectable salad at home, anytime you crave it?

Recreating this salad at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to tweak it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of the original or looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fast-food options, this recipe is designed to deliver the same flavors and satisfaction. Plus, making it from scratch lets you control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition.

In the sections ahead, you’ll find everything you need to bring Chick-fil-A’s beloved Kale Crunch Salad to your kitchen. From sourcing the freshest ingredients to mastering the tangy dressing, this guide walks you through each step in detail. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on crafting your homemade version of this iconic dish.

Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed for Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

To successfully recreate the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh, high-quality greens and a few pantry staples for the dressing. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients:

Fresh Kale and Cabbage: The Base of Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

  1. Kale
    • Type: Use curly kale or lacinato (dinosaur) kale for best results.
    • Benefits: Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and antioxidants.
    • Quantity: 4-5 cups, de-stemmed and chopped.
  2. Cabbage
    • Type: Green cabbage works well, but you can mix in red cabbage for extra color.
    • Benefits: Cabbage adds crunch and is rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber.
    • Quantity: 2 cups, thinly shredded.

Dressing Ingredients for the Perfect Kale Salad

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar
    • Role: Adds a tangy kick that balances the salad’s sweetness.
    • Quantity: 2 tablespoons.
  2. Dijon Mustard
    • Role: Provides depth and slight sharpness to the dressing.
    • Quantity: 1 teaspoon.
  3. Honey
    • Role: Enhances sweetness to counterbalance the vinegar.
    • Quantity: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste).
  4. Olive Oil
    • Role: Creates a smooth, emulsified dressing and adds richness.
    • Quantity: 1/4 cup.
  5. Salt and Black Pepper
    • Role: Essential for seasoning the salad base and dressing.
    • Quantity: To taste.

Optional Add-Ons to Elevate Your Homemade Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

  1. Roasted Almonds
    • Role: Adds nuttiness and crunch to the final dish.
    • Quantity: 1/4 cup, roughly chopped or slivered.
  2. Dried Cranberries
    • Role: Optional for a sweet and tart flavor contrast.
    • Quantity: A handful, depending on preference.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  1. Kale Substitutions
    • Spinach, arugula, or a mix of leafy greens can work if kale isn’t available.
  2. Sweetener Alternatives
    • Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make the salad vegan-friendly.
  3. Nuts and Seeds
    • Replace almonds with sunflower seeds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for variety.

Preparation Steps for Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to prepare the components of the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad. Follow these steps to ensure your salad tastes fresh and delicious, just like the original.

Chick fil A Kale Salad Recipe

How to Prep Kale and Cabbage for a Chick fil A Kale Salad Copycat

  1. Wash and Dry
    • Rinse the kale thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
    • Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels to ensure no moisture remains, as it can dilute the dressing.
  2. De-stem the Kale
    • Hold the stem at the base and gently pull the leaves off.
    • Discard the stems or save them for smoothies or soups.
  3. Chop the Leaves
    • Lay the kale leaves flat and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Smaller pieces ensure better texture and flavor absorption.
    • Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Massage the Kale
    • Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto the kale and gently massage it for 2-3 minutes. This step softens the leaves, reduces bitterness, and enhances their taste.
    • Set the massaged kale aside.

Preparing the Cabbage

  1. Shred the Cabbage
    • Use a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor to shred the cabbage into thin strips.
    • Aim for a similar size to the kale pieces for a uniform texture.
  2. Wash and Dry
    • Rinse the shredded cabbage under cold water to ensure cleanliness.
    • Use a salad spinner or pat it dry thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
  3. Combine with Kale
    • Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl of prepared kale. Gently toss to combine the greens.

Blending the Tangy Dressing for Your Kale Salad Recipe

  1. Gather Ingredients
    • Measure out the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix and Whisk
    • Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
    • Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth consistency.
  3. Taste and Adjust
    • Dip a piece of kale into the dressing to test the flavor. Adjust by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess.
    • Set the dressing aside.

Toasting the Almonds (Optional)

  1. Prepare Almonds
    • If using whole almonds, chop them into smaller pieces for easier incorporation into the salad.
  2. Toast Lightly
    • Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden and aromatic.
    • Transfer them to a plate to cool.

Assembling Your Homemade Chick fil A Kale Salad

With all the components prepped, it’s time to combine them into a delicious, homemade version of Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad. Follow these steps to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.

Chick fil A Kale Salad Recipe

Combining Kale, Cabbage, and Dressing for Your Salad

  1. Start with the Base
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the massaged kale and shredded cabbage.
    • Toss gently to ensure the greens are evenly distributed.
  2. Check Proportions
    • Adjust the ratio of kale to cabbage according to your preference. Some people prefer more kale for a heartier texture, while others enjoy a crunchier salad with extra cabbage.

Tossing the Kale and Cabbage with Dressing

  1. Add the Dressing Gradually
    • Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the kale and cabbage mixture.
    • Use clean hands or salad tongs to toss the greens, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  2. Taste and Adjust
    • Sample the salad to determine if more dressing is needed. Add the remaining dressing in small increments, tossing as you go.
    • Avoid overdressing, as the greens should be lightly coated for a fresh and vibrant taste.

Adding Crunchy Almonds to Your Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Copycat

  1. Top with Almonds
    • Sprinkle the toasted almonds evenly over the salad. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
    • For added flair, reserve a few almonds to scatter on top just before serving.
  2. Optional Add-ons
    • If desired, add a handful of dried cranberries or other toppings like sunflower seeds or shredded carrots for extra flavor and texture.

Presentation and Serving

  1. Plate the Salad
    • Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. A wide, shallow bowl works best for presentation and ease of eating.
  2. Serve Immediately
    • Kale salads are best served fresh. However, if you’ve prepared the salad in advance, store it in the fridge and add the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunch.
  3. Pair with Your Meal
    • Enjoy the salad on its own, or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or any protein of your choice for a complete meal.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

  1. Refrigeration
    • Place leftover salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
    • Note that the dressing may soften the greens over time, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate if you plan to store the salad.
  2. Refreshing the Salad
    • If the salad becomes too soft, toss in a handful of fresh cabbage or kale to revive its texture.
    • Add a splash of fresh dressing before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Chick-fil-A Kale Salad at Home

Creating the perfect Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home can be as easy or as customized as you’d like. To ensure you achieve the best possible results, here are some expert tips and tricks.

Making the Salad Ahead of Time

  1. Prepping in Advance
    • Kale and Cabbage: Chop the kale and shred the cabbage up to 2 days in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers lined with paper towels to keep them crisp and fresh.
    • Dressing: Prepare the dressing and refrigerate it in a sealed jar for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
  2. Assembling Later
    • Keep the greens and dressing separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess. Toss them together when you’re ready to enjoy.

Adjusting the Dressing to Taste

  1. Sweetness
    • If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add an extra teaspoon of honey or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
  2. Tanginess
    • For more tang, increase the apple cider vinegar by a teaspoon at a time until you achieve the desired acidity.
  3. Consistency
    • If the dressing is too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of water or olive oil to thin it out.
    • For a creamier dressing, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of buttermilk.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

  1. Gluten-Free Option
    • Ensure all ingredients, particularly Dijon mustard and honey, are certified gluten-free if needed.
  2. Vegan-Friendly Salad
    • Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
    • Swap almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free variation.
  3. Low-Sodium Version
    • Reduce the salt in the dressing and use unsalted almonds to lower the overall sodium content.

Creative Additions to the Salad

  1. Fruits
    • Add a burst of sweetness with fresh fruits like diced apples, sliced strawberries, or orange segments.
  2. Protein Boost
    • Transform the salad into a complete meal by topping it with grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas.
  3. Cheese
    • A sprinkle of crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan can add a savory depth to the salad.

Getting the Most Out of Your Ingredients

  1. Massaging the Kale
    • Don’t skip this step! Massaging the kale improves its texture and flavor, making it more tender and enjoyable.
  2. Using Fresh Ingredients
    • The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor. Opt for fresh, vibrant kale and cabbage for the best results.
  3. Toasting the Almonds
    • Toasting enhances the nuttiness of the almonds, adding a rich, roasted flavor to the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overdressing the Salad
    • Too much dressing can overwhelm the greens and make the salad soggy. Start with less and add more as needed.
  2. Skipping the Prep Steps
    • Properly washing and drying the greens ensures the dressing sticks evenly and enhances the flavor.
  3. Using Pre-Packaged Greens
    • While convenient, pre-packaged kale and cabbage often lack the freshness and crispness of whole produce.

FAQs

How close is this recipe to the original Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?

This recipe closely mimics the original Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad in both flavor and texture. By using the same key ingredients like kale, cabbage, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it captures the essence of the dish. The flexibility to adjust sweetness, tanginess, and crunch means you can customize it to your liking, creating a homemade version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I customize the dressing?

Absolutely! The dressing is highly adaptable. You can increase the sweetness with more honey or maple syrup, add more Dijon mustard for a spicier kick, or make it creamier with Greek yogurt. Experiment with flavors until you achieve your perfect balance.

How long does the salad stay fresh?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, the assembled salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to store the greens and dressing separately and toss them together just before serving.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to get creative with toppings! In addition to roasted almonds and dried cranberries, you can add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of cheese like Parmesan or feta. Fruits like apples or strawberries also pair wonderfully with the tangy dressing.

Can I make the salad vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegan diets. Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup in the dressing, and substitute almonds with seeds for a nut-free, plant-based option.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! This recipe scales up easily. Just double the quantity of ingredients for both the greens and the dressing. It’s perfect for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.

Looking for a hearty main dish to pair with your Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe? Try our Ultimate Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce. Its creamy and flavorful sauce complements the fresh, zesty flavors of the kale salad perfectly, making it a winning combination for your next meal

Conclusion

Recreating Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad at home is not only simple but also a rewarding way to enjoy this healthy, flavorful dish anytime you want. From the vibrant greens and crunchy almonds to the tangy-sweet dressing, every element of this salad is crafted to deliver satisfaction with every bite.

By following this guide, you now have the tools to make this iconic salad your own. Whether you’re sticking closely to the original recipe or adding personal touches, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, and let the deliciousness begin!