Chick-fil-a Market Salad (copycat)

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Mixed Greens: You can use any combination of spinach, romaine, or spring mix. I love using baby spinach for its mild flavor. If you want something heartier, try kale or arugula instead.

Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Use any cooked chicken you have on hand, like grilled or baked. For a plant-based option, chickpeas or shredded tofu would work too!

Fruits: Strawberries and blueberries are fantastic for their sweetness. However, feel free to swap with whatever berries are in season or available, like raspberries or blackberries. Other fruits, such as mango or peach slices, could add a nice twist, too.

Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a nice saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or omit it altogether. Goat cheese also works well if you prefer it!

Almonds: Sliced almonds add a crunchy element. If you’re nut-free, go for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead for added texture.

How Do You Make Sure The Salad Stays Fresh Before Serving?

Keeping your salad fresh is key to enjoying it at its best. Here are some tips to prevent sogginess and enhance flavor:

• Layer carefully: Start with mixed greens at the bottom, then add protein and fruits. This separation helps keep greens crisp.
• Dress just before serving: This way, your greens won’t wilt. If you’re making it ahead, store the dressing in a separate container.
• Chill it: If you want to make it ahead, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes. This way, it gets nice and cold, perfect for a hot day.

Chick-fil-A Market Salad (Copycat) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, romaine, or spring mix)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 apple, diced (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji for tartness)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup granola (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Dressing:

• Your choice of salad dressing (e.g., honey mustard dressing or balsamic vinaigrette)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to chill it for a refreshing taste, you can let it sit in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before serving. Quick and healthy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

Start by taking a large salad bowl and placing the mixed greens at the bottom. This will be the base of your salad, giving it a fresh and crunchy foundation.

2. Add the Chicken:

Next, top the greens with the cooked chicken breast. You can use either diced or shredded chicken, depending on your preference. Make sure it’s evenly spread out over the salad.

3. Layer the Fruits:

Now, it’s time to add your colorful fruits! Distribute the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and diced apple evenly across the top. These will bring sweet and juicy flavors to your salad.

4. Sprinkle the Feta:

Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the salad. This will add a nice creamy and tangy element that pairs well with the fruit.

5. Add Crunchy Toppings:

For some extra texture, garnish your salad with sliced almonds. If you’d like, you can also sprinkle on some granola and dried cranberries for added crunch and sweetness.

6. Dress the Salad:

Drizzle your choice of dressing over the salad for flavor. If you prefer, you can serve the dressing on the side to let everyone choose how much they want.

7. Toss or Leave Layered:

Give the salad a gentle toss to mix all the ingredients together, or you can leave it layered for a beautiful presentation. Both ways are delicious!

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Your salad is ready to go! You can serve it immediately, or if you want it extra refreshing, chill it in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes. Enjoy your homemade Chick-fil-A Market Salad!

Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the strawberries, blueberries, or apple for your favorite fruits like peaches, oranges, or even grapes. Just make sure to consider the balance of flavors and textures!

How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the chicken and feta cheese. You can replace them with chickpeas for protein and avocado for creaminess. Also, choose a plant-based dressing or make your own with olive oil and vinegar!

How to Store Leftover Salad?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. If possible, add the crunchy toppings like almonds and granola just before serving.

Can I Prep This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead! Chop the veggies and fruits, and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad right before serving for the best freshness, or you can layer everything in a jar for easy grabs during the week!