Costco Chicken Salad Recipe: Better Than Store-Bought!

If you’re a fan of Costco chicken salad recipe, you’re not alone! This creamy, flavorful, and satisfying deli-style chicken salad has gained a loyal following for its perfect balance of tender rotisserie chicken, rich mayonnaise, and crisp celery. But did you know you can make an even better version at home?

This homemade Costco chicken salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also more affordable, customizable, and just as delicious—if not better—than the store-bought version. Plus, you control the ingredients, so you can adjust it to be healthier, keto-friendly, or dairy-free if needed.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to recreate Costco’s chicken salad with simple ingredients and easy steps. You’ll also find pro tips, serving suggestions, and common mistakes to avoid so you can enjoy a deli-quality chicken salad at home!

Let’s get started!

What Makes Costco Chicken Salad So Popular?

Costco’s chicken salad has gained a devoted following among shoppers, and for good reason! This creamy, flavorful, and protein-packed dish is a go-to for quick lunches, easy dinners, and meal prep. But what exactly makes it so special? Let’s break it down:

1. Signature Creamy & Savory Flavor

One of the biggest reasons people love Costco’s chicken salad is its perfectly balanced flavor. It has the right amount of creaminess from mayonnaise, a slight tang from Dijon mustard, and a subtle crunch from fresh celery. The seasoning is simple yet effective, creating a deliciously smooth and satisfying bite every time.

2. Made with Rotisserie Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Unlike many store-bought chicken salads that use bland, boiled chicken, Costco’s version is made with tender and juicy rotisserie chicken. The slow-roasted, well-seasoned chicken adds extra depth and richness, making the salad even more delicious. The shredded texture of the chicken also absorbs the dressing beautifully, ensuring flavor in every bite.

3. Versatile & Convenient for Any Meal

One of the best things about this chicken salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it in multiple ways:

• Classic sandwich – Served on a buttery croissant or hearty whole-grain bread
• Lettuce wraps – A great low-carb or keto-friendly option
• Salad topper – Spoon it over a fresh green salad for a protein boost
• Dip for crackers – Perfect for a snack or appetizer

Whether you need a quick lunch, a meal prep solution, or an easy dinner option, Costco chicken salad fits the bill.

Simple Ingredients for a Perfect Copycat Costco Chicken Salad

One of the best things about Costco’s chicken salad is how it’s made with just a few basic ingredients, yet it delivers amazing flavor and texture. The good news? You can easily recreate it at home using fresh, simple ingredients while also customizing it to your taste.

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and how to make substitutions if needed.

1. Essential Ingredients

To achieve the authentic Costco chicken salad taste, you only need a handful of pantry staples:

• Rotisserie Chicken – Costco’s chicken salad is famous for using their own juicy, well-seasoned rotisserie chicken. This adds a depth of flavor that plain boiled chicken just can’t match. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture.
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the salad! Use high-quality mayo like Hellmann’s, Duke’s, or Kewpie for the richest flavor. Avoid Miracle Whip, as it has a sweeter taste that changes the profile.
• Celery – This adds the signature crunch and a fresh contrast to the creamy dressing. Dice it finely to distribute the texture evenly.
• Red Onion (Optional but Recommended) – While not always in the store-bought version, a bit of finely diced red onion or shallot can add a mild sharpness that enhances the flavor.
• Dijon Mustard – A small amount of Dijon mustard gives the salad a slight tangy kick and helps balance the richness of the mayo.
• Salt & Pepper – Simple yet essential! These seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and mayo.

2. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Texture

Want to customize your homemade Costco chicken salad? Here are a few optional ingredients that can take it to the next level:

• Grapes – Adding halved red or green grapes gives a sweet, juicy contrast to the creamy dressing (a popular twist!).
• Sliced Almonds or Pecans – If you like a bit more crunch, toasted nuts add texture and a nutty richness.
• Green Onions or Chives – For a mild onion flavor without the bite of raw onions.
• Greek Yogurt (Healthier Swap for Mayo) – If you want a lighter, protein-packed option, swap half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt.
• Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness.

3. Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

If you have dietary restrictions or simply want to make this chicken salad healthier, here are some easy swaps:

Ingredient	Healthier Alternative	Dietary Benefit
Mayonnaise	Greek yogurt or avocado mayo	Lower in calories & fat
Rotisserie Chicken	Grilled or shredded chicken breast	Leaner & lower in sodium
Dijon Mustard	Whole grain mustard	More texture & depth of flavor
Salt	Garlic powder or celery salt	Adds flavor with less sodium

4. Choosing the Best Chicken for This Recipe

The quality of the chicken is key to making this salad taste just like Costco’s version. Here are the best options:

• Best Choice: Costco Rotisserie Chicken – Perfectly seasoned, juicy, and convenient. Simply remove the skin and shred the meat.
• Alternative: Homemade Poached Chicken – If you prefer to control the seasoning, poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts in broth for a clean, neutral taste.
• Canned Chicken (Least Recommended) – While convenient, it has a different texture and won’t taste as fresh as rotisserie or poached chicken.

Pro Tips to Make It Even Better Than Store-Bought

Costco’s chicken salad is already delicious, but making it at home means you can customize the flavor, texture, and freshness to your liking. With a few simple tricks, you can elevate this classic dish to a whole new level. Here are some expert tips and techniques to make your homemade Costco chicken salad even better than store-bought!

1. Use the Right Chicken for Maximum Flavor

The type of chicken you use has a huge impact on the taste and texture of your salad. While Costco uses shredded rotisserie chicken, there are a few ways to enhance the flavor even more:

• Rotisserie Chicken (Best Choice) – This is the closest match to Costco’s version. The slow-roasted flavor adds depth, and the chicken stays juicy and tender.
• Oven-Roasted Chicken Breasts – Roasting your own bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper will give you maximum flavor and moisture.
• Poached Chicken (Healthiest Option) – If you prefer lean and moist chicken, poaching is a great method. Simmer boneless, skinless chicken breasts in broth with garlic, onions, and herbs for extra flavor.
• Slow-Cooked or Pressure-Cooked Chicken – Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot creates tender, fall-apart chicken that blends beautifully into the salad.

Pro Tip: If using fresh chicken, let it cool completely before shredding to lock in the moisture and prevent dryness.

2. Master the Creamy Dressing Balance

The dressing is what makes this chicken salad so rich and satisfying. To achieve the perfect creamy texture without overpowering the dish, follow these tips:

• Use High-Quality Mayonnaise – Brands like Duke’s, Hellmann’s, or Kewpie offer the best creaminess and flavor. Avoid low-fat versions, as they can make the salad taste bland.
• Balance with a Touch of Dijon Mustard – Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth that prevents the salad from tasting flat.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon Juice – This brightens the flavors and keeps the salad light and fresh.
• Control the Creaminess – If you prefer a lighter version, replace half of the mayo with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier yet still creamy dressing.

Pro Tip: For extra depth, whisk a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar or pickle juice into the dressing—it enhances the overall flavor!

3. Add Crunch for the Perfect Texture

One of the secrets to a great chicken salad is texture. Costco keeps it simple with celery, but you can elevate it by adding a mix of crunchy ingredients:

• Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Pecans, Walnuts) – Adds a nutty bite and extra texture.
• Diced Apples or Grapes – A touch of natural sweetness balances the savory flavors.
• Diced Pickles or Relish – Adds a tangy, briny contrast to the creamy dressing.
• Crispy Bacon Bits – If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of crisp, crumbled turkey bacon brings a smoky crunch.

Pro Tip: If using nuts, toast them lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch.hem lightly in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their flavor and crunch.

4. Season Like a Pro for Maximum Flavor

While Costco keeps the seasonings simple, adding a few extra spices and herbs can take your chicken salad to the next level:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or dill add freshness.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
• Paprika or Smoked Paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor.
• Celery Salt (Instead of Regular Salt): Boosts the celery flavor naturally.

Pro Tip: Let the chicken salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to fully develop.

Want to try a different twist on chicken salad? Check out this Ultimate Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe for a fresh, flavorful variation with a zesty kick!

5. Serve It in Creative Ways

Costco’s chicken salad is often served as-is, but there are many delicious ways to enjoy it. Try these serving ideas:

• Classic Sandwich or Croissant – Serve it on a buttery croissant, brioche bun, or toasted sourdough for a classic deli-style meal.
• Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps – Scoop the salad into butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a fresh, keto-friendly option.
• Stuffed Avocados or Tomatoes – Hollow out an avocado or tomato and fill it with chicken salad for a unique, healthy presentation.
• Over a Bed of Greens – Serve it on top of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach for a light, protein-packed salad.
• With Crackers or Veggies – Perfect for snacking—just dip and enjoy.

Pro Tip: If serving on bread, toast it lightly to prevent sogginess and add extra crunch.ch!

Storage and Food Safety Tips

To keep your homemade chicken salad fresh and safe to eat, follow proper food handling and storage guidelines. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and consume them within 3 to 4 days. Never leave chicken salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

For more detailed food safety tips, check out the USDA’s guide to keeping food safe.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Chicken Salad

Costco’s chicken salad is a beloved classic, but if you’re making it at home, you might have some questions about ingredients, storage, variations, and substitutions. Below, we’ve answered the most common FAQs to help you make the best homemade version!

1. How Long Does Homemade Chicken Salad Last?

It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Stir before serving to refresh the texture.

2. Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?

Freezing is not recommended since mayonnaise separates, and veggies become mushy. Instead, freeze the shredded chicken separately and mix the salad fresh when needed.

3. What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?

Great alternatives include:

• Greek yogurt for a lighter option
• Mashed avocado for a creamy texture
• Hummus for a Mediterranean twist
• Sour cream or cottage cheese for extra richness

4. How Can I Make It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly?

Use sugar-free mayo, replace bread with lettuce wraps, and add healthy fats like avocado or nuts.

5. What Are the Best Ways to Serve It?

• In a sandwich with toasted bread or a croissant
• As a wrap in lettuce leaves
• Over a green salad
• Stuffed in an avocado or tomato
• With crackers or veggies as a dip

6. Can I Add Extra Ingredients?

Yes, here are some great mix-ins:

• For crunch: nuts, celery, sunflower seeds
• For sweetness: grapes, apples, dried cranberries
• For extra flavor: pickles, capers, vinegar
• For more protein: hard-boiled eggs, shredded cheese

7. How Can I Make It Even Better?

• Use fresh or rotisserie chicken for better flavor
• Let it chill for 30 minutes before serving
• Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for balance
• Choose high-quality mayonnaise for a smoother texture