There’s something truly comforting about a creamy, flavorful chicken salad. For many, Ukrop’s chicken salad is a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of family gatherings and simple homemade meals. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned, making it the ultimate dish to serve with crackers, on a sandwich, or straight from the bowl.
This Ukrop’s chicken salad recipe is my go-to version that I prepare weekly for my family. It’s quick, satisfying, and made with just a few simple ingredients, yet it never fails to please. Best of all, you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste-creamy, tangy, or peppery, depending on your mood.
If you’ve been looking for a homemade chicken salad that rivals the store-bought favorite, this recipe is one you’ll want to bookmark. It’s easy enough for weeknight meals, yet tasty enough to bring to potlucks or family get-togethers.
What Does Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Taste Like?
This chicken salad has a creamy, savory base that’s balanced with just the right amount of sweetness from the relish. The poached chicken breast gives it a light, tender texture that blends perfectly with the mayo. It’s refreshing without being heavy, making it an ideal dish for both lunch and dinner.
What makes this version so special is its versatility. The addition of ground black pepper adds a warm kick, while the salt enhances all the flavors. For those who enjoy a little tang, a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of dehydrated onion can transform it into a brighter, more complex dish.
Overall, this Ukrop’s chicken salad recipe is simple but deeply satisfying. It’s creamy without being overly rich, flavorful without being complicated, and always leaves you wanting another bite.
Ingredients Required for Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Ukrop’s Chicken Salad
- 1.5 lbs poached chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish
- Himalayan salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Mayonnaise, to taste
- Optional: dehydrated onions, squeeze of lemon
Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need
- Cuisinart or food processor
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or mixing spoon
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (poaching chicken): 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Copycat Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Simply follow the steps given below to make your Ukrop’s Chicken Salad at home
Step 1: Poach the chicken breasts
Start by placing your chicken breasts into a pot of simmering water. Let them cook gently for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the water and allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
Step 2: Chop the chicken
After the chicken has cooled, cut it into large chunks. Transfer the pieces into your Cuisinart or food processor. Pulse until the chicken is finely chopped, but be careful not to over-blend-it should have a light, flaky texture rather than turning into a paste.
Step 3: Season the base
Place the chopped chicken into a medium mixing bowl. Add a sprinkle of Himalayan salt and a generous dash of ground black pepper. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your preference; if you like a bold flavor, don’t be shy with the pepper.
Step 4: Add the relish
Mix in one tablespoon of sweet relish to bring a touch of sweetness and balance to the savory chicken. Stir until the relish is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Fold in the mayonnaise
Add mayonnaise gradually, starting with a few spoonfuls. Mix until the chicken salad reaches your desired consistency. For a drier version, use less mayo; for extra creaminess, add a bit more.
Step 6: Optional flavor boost and serve
For extra depth, stir in dehydrated onions or a squeeze of lemon juice. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving with crackers, toast, or fresh greens.
Some Tasty Ways To Customize and Serve This Ukrop’s Chicken Salad
1. With Buttery Crackers
This is our go-to way of enjoying chicken salad. There’s just something about the crunch of a buttery cracker paired with the creamy chicken that makes it irresistible. It’s simple, quick, and always a hit during snack time.
2. Stuffed in Croissants
When we want to elevate things a little, we tuck the chicken salad into a flaky, buttery croissant. It feels like something you’d get at a café, but it’s so easy to do at home. Perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
3. On Freshly Toasted Bread
A warm piece of toast topped with a scoop of chicken salad is one of the most satisfying meals we make. We usually go for sourdough or multigrain-it adds just the right amount of crunch and flavor.
4. With Lettuce Wraps
If we’re keeping it light, wrapping scoops of chicken salad in crisp lettuce leaves is a refreshing option. It’s crunchy, healthy, and surprisingly filling.
5. Over a Fresh Garden Salad
We often serve this chicken salad right on top of a bed of mixed greens. It turns a simple salad into a hearty meal, especially with some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers on the side.
6. In Mini Sliders
For parties or family gatherings, we make little sliders using soft rolls. The chicken salad tucked inside makes for a bite-sized snack that disappears quickly every single time.
7. With Celery Sticks
This is one of our favorite healthier snacks. The crunch of the celery with the creamy chicken salad is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s guilt-free!
8. In a Wrap
Rolling the chicken salad up in a tortilla with some spinach and a slice of cheese makes for an easy lunch-on-the-go. We’ve packed these for picnics and road trips, and they always travel well.
9. As a Dip with Pita Chips
Sometimes we spread the chicken salad in a serving bowl and surround it with pita chips. It becomes an instant appetizer, and everyone ends up going back for seconds.
10. On Top of Baked Potatoes
This is a little different, but trust us-it works. A warm baked potato topped with a spoonful of chicken salad is hearty, filling, and absolutely delicious. It’s one of those meals that feels comforting and indulgent at the same time.
Some Tips on This Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Recipe
1. Cook chicken slow – Boil or poach the chicken gently. This makes it soft and not dry.
2. Let it cool – Don’t mix the chicken while it’s hot. Wait until it cools down so it blends better.
3. Chop small – Use a food processor or cut the chicken into tiny bits. It makes the salad smooth and easy to eat.
4. Add mayo little by little – Start with a spoon of mayo. Mix, then taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
5. Don’t skip the relish – The sweet relish gives a tiny pop of sweetness that balances the salty chicken.
6. Taste as you go – Add a pinch of salt or pepper, then try it. Everyone likes it a little different.
7. Make it zesty – A squeeze of lemon makes it bright and fresh. Try it if you like tangy flavors.
8. Mix gently – Stir slowly so the chicken stays fluffy and doesn’t turn mushy.
9. Chill before eating – Put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The flavors come together better when cold.
10. Serve with fun sides – Crackers, bread, or even celery sticks are yummy with this chicken salad.
How to Store and Reheat Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Properly?
Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This recipe is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Poach the chicken breasts
Start by placing your chicken breasts into a pot of simmering water. Let them cook gently for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the water and allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
Step 2: Chop the chicken
After the chicken has cooled, cut it into large chunks. Transfer the pieces into your Cuisinart or food processor. Pulse until the chicken is finely chopped, but be careful not to over-blend-it should have a light, flaky texture rather than turning into a paste.
Step 3: Season the base
Place the chopped chicken into a medium mixing bowl. Add a sprinkle of Himalayan salt and a generous dash of ground black pepper. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your preference; if you like a bold flavor, don’t be shy with the pepper.
Step 4: Add the relish
Mix in one tablespoon of sweet relish to bring a touch of sweetness and balance to the savory chicken. Stir until the relish is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Fold in the mayonnaise
Add mayonnaise gradually, starting with a few spoonfuls. Mix until the chicken salad reaches your desired consistency. For a drier version, use less mayo; for extra creaminess, add a bit more.
Step 6: Optional flavor boost and serve
For extra depth, stir in dehydrated onions or a squeeze of lemon juice. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving with crackers, toast, or fresh greens.
Video
Notes
Common Queries on This Ukrop’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Ukrop’s Chicken Salad that people often ask.
1. What are the ingredients in Ukrop’s chicken salad?
Ukrop’s chicken salad is made with simple, fresh ingredients: poached chicken breast, sweet relish, salt, black pepper, and mayonnaise. That’s the classic version, but I sometimes add a touch of dehydrated onion or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. It’s easy to adjust based on what your family likes best.
2. What are the 4 ingredients in chicken salad?
If you want to keep it ultra-simple, the four core ingredients are chicken, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. That’s all you really need for a basic chicken salad. From there, you can add extras like relish, celery, or even nuts if you enjoy a bit of crunch.
3. What are the ingredients of chicken salad?
Chicken salad recipes can vary, but the essentials are usually cooked chicken, mayo, seasonings, and a mix-in for flavor or texture. In my recipe, I like using sweet relish to give a slight tangy-sweet kick. Some people add celery, grapes, or herbs-it’s really up to you!
4. Why is it called Waldorf chicken salad?
Waldorf salad originated at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York in the late 1800s. It was originally made with apples, celery, and mayo. Later on, people began adding chicken and sometimes walnuts. That’s how it got the name “Waldorf chicken salad”-a combination of the original fruit-and-veggie salad with tender chicken.
5. What makes Ukrop’s chicken salad different from other versions?
Ukrop’s chicken salad is known for its smooth texture and balanced flavor. Unlike chunky chicken salads, the chicken is finely chopped, which makes it creamier and perfect for spreading on crackers or bread. The little touch of relish also sets it apart-it adds sweetness without overpowering the chicken.
6. Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! I actually prefer making it ahead of time because it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours. The flavors really come together, and it’s ready to grab whenever you need a quick meal or snack.
7. What’s the best way to serve Ukrop’s chicken salad?
In my house, we love it with buttery crackers, but it’s also delicious in sandwiches or wraps. For a lighter option, try scooping it onto lettuce leaves for a low-carb version. It’s really versatile, so you can enjoy it however you like.
8. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of poached chicken?
Yes, you can! I’ve tried it both ways, and rotisserie chicken works fine when you’re in a hurry. Just keep in mind that poached chicken gives you a milder flavor and softer texture, which is closer to the classic Ukrop’s chicken salad style.
9. How long does homemade chicken salad last?
From experience, it stays fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. After that, the texture and flavor start to change. I don’t recommend freezing it since mayo doesn’t hold up well after thawing.
10. How can I make this chicken salad healthier?
I sometimes swap half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version. It still tastes creamy but with less fat and more protein. Adding celery, apples, or grapes also makes it healthier while giving it a fresh crunch.
This Ukrop’s chicken salad recipe is a family favorite that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you serve it as a quick lunch, a party dip with crackers, or a hearty sandwich filling, it always delivers. The best part? It’s easy to make and customizable to your taste preferences.
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