Walking through the busy aisles of Costco, I can’t resist the allure of their famous chicken salad. It’s a comforting mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing that hits all the right notes. Luckily, you don’t have to venture to the store to enjoy this deliciousness! With my homemade Costco Chicken Salad Copycat Recipe, you can recreate that satisfying flavor right in your own kitchen. This dish is not only quick to whip up but also customizable to your taste, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or family gatherings. Whether you’re packing lunch or hosting friends, this chicken salad is bound to impress. Curious about how to make this creamy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this chicken salad special?

Homemade Delight: There’s something extraordinary about creating your own version of a staple like Costco’s chicken salad right at home!
Fresh Ingredients: Using rotisserie chicken and vibrant veggies guarantees a meal full of flavor and nutrition.
Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients—think grapes for sweetness or Greek yogurt for creaminess!
Quick Prep: This recipe is a time-saver, ready to enjoy in under an hour, especially great for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, it can be served on its own, in wraps, or on top of greens. Don’t miss out on making it your own! Want more tasty ideas? Check out my Chicken Broccoli Savory or give the Bbq Chicken Mac a try!

Costco Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cooked rotisserie-style chicken – Provides the protein base; shredded or diced chicken works best for texture.
• Celery – Adds a refreshing crunch; ensure it’s finely diced for even distribution.
• White onion – Gives depth of flavor; you can substitute with red onion for a milder taste or omit if preferred.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Brings creaminess to the dressing; Greek yogurt can be used for a lower-fat alternative.
• Sour cream – Enhances richness; can be swapped with dairy-free alternatives if needed.
• White wine vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; adjust the amount based on your taste.
• Lemon juice – Freshens and brightens the salad; bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
• Sea salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your preference.
• Sugar – Optional for a hint of sweetness; feel free to omit for a sugar-free version.

With these fresh and customizable ingredients, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delicious homemade Costco chicken salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Costco Chicken Salad Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Shred Chicken
Begin by shredding your cooked rotisserie-style chicken, which will serve as the hearty base for your chicken salad. You can use two forks or a food processor for a finer texture—just pulse until shredded but not pureed. Transfer the shredded chicken to a large bowl, creating a fluffy pile waiting for all the delicious flavors to come.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with sea salt and add optional sugar if you prefer a hint of sweetness. This dressing is the heart of your Homemade Costco Chicken Salad, creating that creamy, rich flavor everyone loves.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the shredded chicken in your large bowl. Add the finely diced celery and white onion to the bowl, enhancing the texture and flavor of your salad. Use a spatula to gently mix everything together until each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the dressing, revealing a beautiful and inviting chicken salad.

Step 4: Refrigerate to Meld Flavors
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate your chicken salad for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even tastier. If you can wait until the next day, the salad develops a richer taste, making it a family favorite ready for potluck gatherings or quick lunches.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, scoop your creamy Homemade Costco Chicken Salad into bowls or on a bed of greens. It works wonderfully in wraps or sandwiches, adding versatility to your meal. The salad should be chilled and bursting with flavor, featuring that delightful crunch from the celery and a savory kick from the onion.

How to Store and Freeze Costco Chicken Salad

Fridge: Keep your homemade Costco Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the salad out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.

Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze Costco Chicken Salad, as the creamy texture may separate and become unappetizing once thawed.

Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed chilled; simply take it out of the fridge and serve!

Expert Tips for Costco Chicken Salad

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For maximum flavor and time-saving convenience, opt for cooked rotisserie chicken. It pairs perfectly with the other fresh ingredients.

• Chill to Enhance Flavor: Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving. This simple step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tastier dish.

• Customize Your Add-ins: Don’t be shy! Experiment with ingredients like grapes for sweetness, nuts for crunch, or herbs for freshness to make your Costco Chicken Salad truly your own.

• Diced Veggies Matter: Finely dice the celery and onion for even distribution within the salad. Larger chunks can overpower your bites, affecting the overall texture.

• Skip the Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad, as the creamy texture won’t hold up well, leading to a less enjoyable experience when thawed. Store in the fridge for best quality!

Variations & Substitutions for Costco Chicken Salad

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delicious chicken salad to suit your taste!

Fruity Addition: Add grapes for a sweet twist; their juicy burst complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Herb-Infusion: Toss in fresh dill or parsley for an herby flavor boost that brings brightness to your salad.
Colorful Crunch: Swap out the celery for diced bell peppers to add a sweet crunch and a pop of color.
Lightened Up: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of olive oil for a lighter, healthier version.
Nutty Twist: Introduce chopped walnuts or toasted almonds for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Heat Level: Spice things up with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes; a hint of heat can elevate the entire dish.
Creamy & Zesty: Try avocado in place of sour cream for a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots or chopped spinach for a vibrant and nutritious addition that packs even more flavor.

For more tasty ideas, don’t miss checking out my Chicken Broccoli Savory or give the comforting Butter Chicken a try!

What to Serve with Homemade Costco Chicken Salad Copycat Recipe

Looking to create a full meal that tantalizes the taste buds? Here are some delightful pairings that perfectly complement the creamy chicken salad.

Crunchy Green Salad: A light, refreshing mix of greens with vinaigrette adds a vibrant balance to the rich chicken salad.
Whole-Grain Crackers: Pairing with these hearty crackers provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy texture.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Sweet grapes or juicy strawberries add a fruity burst of flavor that beautifully enhances the savory elements of the dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw pairs exceptionally well, lending texture and flavor depth to your meal. The crunch and slight sweetness work in perfect harmony!
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers a warm, buttery contrast that makes each bite of chicken salad even more satisfying.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade helps cleanse the palate and adds a touch of brightness to the overall meal.
Potato Salad: A classic side dish with creamy potato salad complements the chicken salad while offering a familiar comfort-food vibe.
Dessert Option: End your meal with a light lemon sorbet for a sweet, refreshing finish that echoes the citrus notes in the salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Costco Chicken Salad Copycat recipe is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the chicken salad up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow all steps through mixing, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a deliciously rich taste. If you desire to prep individual components ahead, consider shredding the chicken and chopping the celery and onion up to 3 days in advance; refrigerate each separately to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, just combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing, and you’ll have a fantastic meal ready with minimal effort!

Costco Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using cooked rotisserie-style chicken. It has a perfect blend of seasoning and moisture. If you prefer, you can also use leftover grilled or boiled chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded or diced and tender to make the salad delectable!

How should I store my chicken salad, and how long will it last?
You can store your homemade Costco Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to stir it gently before serving to redistribute the dressing for optimal flavor. It’s perfect for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week!

Can I freeze the chicken salad for later use?
I often recommend avoiding freezing this salad. Freezing can cause the creamy dressing to separate and change in texture, making it less enjoyable once thawed. Instead, prepare what you can consume within a few days for the best experience.

What can I do if my chicken salad seems dry?
No worries! If you find your chicken salad dry, simply add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream to the mix. Another great idea is to incorporate a splash of lemon juice or a dash of white wine vinegar—this not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavors. Just mix it in until you reach your desired creaminess!

Are there any dietary substitutions I can make?
Very! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version while still keeping that creamy texture. If you need it to be dairy-free, try using a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Also, feel free to leave out any ingredients that may cause allergies, such as onions, to suit your dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to customize it; the more the merrier!

What should I serve with my chicken salad?
Serving suggestions include hosting it on a bed of mixed greens, inside a flaky croissant, or alongside whole-grain crackers. This way, you’ll have a lovely meal that can appeal to the whole family, making it versatile for any occasion!