Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad Recipe

I’ve crafted my very own version of the Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad Recipe, blending the classic comfort and wholesome goodness of the original with a personal touch.

This recipe is a delightful medley of tender shredded chicken, crisp celery, and sweet pickle relish, all brought together in a creamy dressing with a hint of Dijon mustard.

The benefits of this chicken salad extend beyond its delicious taste. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a protein-packed lunch, a light dinner, or a convenient snack.

The inclusion of lean chicken provides a great source of protein, while the celery adds a crunchy texture and fiber.

By controlling the ingredients, like opting for low-fat mayonnaise or sour cream, it can be a healthier alternative to store-bought options.

This homemade version is not only a nod to the cherished Cracker Barrel classic but also a testament to the joy of creating something nourishing and flavorful in your own kitchen.

Don’t worry if you are new to the kitchen. I will guide you step by step, on what ingredients to take and how to make this salad. Let’s get started.

How To Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad Recipe?

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes (for cooking chicken, if not using pre-cooked)
• Total Time: 50 minutes (if cooking chicken), 20 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
• Yield: Serves 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (varies based on ingredients used)

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken or boil/bake your own chicken breasts)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, minced finely
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (or chopped sweet pickles)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg, hard-boiled, halved (Optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans for texture (Optional)
• 1/4 cup grapes, halved, or dried cranberries for sweetness (Optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook 2-3 chicken breasts by boiling them in water or chicken broth until fully cooked (about 20-30 minutes). Once cooled, shred the chicken with forks or chop it into small pieces.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Mix the ingredients until they are well blended and smooth.

Add the Chicken and Veggies

To the wet mixture, add the shredded chicken, carrots, chopped celery, and onion. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.

Season

Add the sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir the chicken salad until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Add Optional Ingredients

If you’re using almonds, pecans, grapes, or dried cranberries, gently fold them into the salad at this point.

Chill

For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving. This enables the flavors to harmoniously blend together.

Serve

Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with a side of crackers. You can garnish it with boiled eggs. It’s versatile and perfect for a light lunch or picnic.

Perfect Making Tips

◍ Use Quality Chicken: Opt for freshly cooked chicken, like roasted or poached, for the best flavor and texture.

◍ Balance Creaminess: Adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to sour cream to suit your taste, aiming for a creamy yet not overly heavy texture.

◍ Enhance Flavors: A splash of lemon juice and a hint of Dijon mustard can add depth and brightness to the salad.

◍ Add Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped celery and optional nuts like almonds or pecans for a satisfying texture.

◍ Customize: Feel free to add personal touches, such as grapes, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for sweetness and variety.

◍ Season Well: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go, to ensure the salad is flavorful.

◍ Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

◎ Sandwich: Serve it between slices of whole grain or sourdough bread, topped with lettuce and tomato.

◎ Salad: Spoon it over a bed of mixed greens or a crisp lettuce leaf for a light, refreshing meal.

◎ Wrap: Wrap it in a flour tortilla or a large lettuce leaf for a healthy, portable option.

◎ Crackers: Offer it with a side of crackers for a simple, satisfying snack or appetizer.

◎ Croissant: Fill a buttery croissant for a decadent lunch or brunch option.

◎ Stuffed Tomatoes: Hollow out tomatoes and stuff them with chicken salad for an elegant presentation.

How To Store It?

To store the Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad effectively, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate immediately.

This salad is best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days of preparation. Keeping it in the coldest part of your refrigerator can help maintain its freshness.

It’s not recommended to freeze the chicken salad, as the mayonnaise and sour cream can separate and affect the texture upon thawing.

Always use a clean spoon when serving to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.

Conclusion

Making my version of the Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad was a delightful journey into recreating a beloved classic with a personal spin.

I thoroughly enjoyed how this recipe came together, appreciating the simplicity and the depth of flavor it offered.

It’s a testament to the joy of homemade meals and the pleasure of sharing them with others. Whether served on a sandwich, over a bed of greens, or as a snack with crackers, it never failed to impress.

This Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad recipe has certainly earned its place in my recipe collection, and I look forward to making it again and again.

If you like this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends. Comment and rate your salad-making experience. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking.

See you again in a new recipe. Enjoy your food!