Here is a simple, copycat Whole Foods chicken salad you can make at home.
introduction
This Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat) is fresh, creamy, and easy to make. It uses simple ingredients like shredded chicken, grapes, celery, and a light poppy seed dressing. If you like quick chicken meals, try the Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce recipe for another easy dinner idea.
why make this recipe
This salad is fast to make and tastes bright. It is great for lunch, a snack, or a light dinner. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. The dressing is creamy but not heavy.
how to make Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat)
Make the dressing, mix the salad, and chill if you want it cold. Use fresh grapes and crunchy celery for a good texture. Add pecans for a small nutty crunch.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- ½ cup red grapes (halved)
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup diced celery
- 1 Tablespoon chopped pecans
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (I used avocado oil mayo)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds
- ¼ teaspoons sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Directions :
- Whisk together mayo, greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
- Add chicken, grapes, onion, celery and pecans into a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over and toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed.
- Enjoy right away or chill before serving. Serve with crackers for a snack or appetizer, on bread or a wrap for a sandwich or over a bed of greens.
- Place salad in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep for 3-5 days.
how to serve Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat)
Serve on sandwich bread or wraps for an easy meal. Put it over mixed greens for a light lunch. Use crackers for a quick snack or give it as part of a picnic spread.
how to store Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat)
Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for 3–5 days. Do not freeze, because the dressing and grapes do not freeze well.
tips to make Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat)
- Cut grapes in halves for easy bites.
- Use cooked chicken warmed or chilled.
- Chop pecans small so they mix well.
- Taste the dressing and add more honey or vinegar if you like it sweeter or tangier.
- For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of some mayo.
variation (if any)
- Swap pecans for sliced almonds or walnuts.
- Add chopped apple for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Use curry powder for a different flavor twist.
- Make it dairy-free by using dairy-free yogurt and mayo.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes. Drain well and shred if needed. The salad will still taste good.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It keeps 3–5 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before for better flavor, but add nuts right before serving if you want them extra crunchy.
Q: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It is easy to portion into containers for lunches.
Q: Can I leave out the grapes?
A: Yes. You can use apple or dried cranberries if you prefer.
Sonoma Chicken Salad (Whole Foods Copycat)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A fresh and creamy chicken salad made with shredded chicken, grapes, and a light poppy seed dressing. Perfect for lunch, a snack, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- ½ cup red grapes (halved)
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup diced celery
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Whisk together mayo, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Add chicken, grapes, onion, celery, and pecans into a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over and toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed.
- Enjoy right away or chill before serving.
Notes
Serve with crackers for a snack, on bread or a wrap for a sandwich, or over a bed of greens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg