Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe – Make This Copycat Favorite at Home

Chick fil a kale salad recipe lovers, you’re in the right place! I’m Bella, the home cook behind QuickRecipes, and I believe the best meals are simple, wholesome, and made with love—just like my grandmother taught me in her cozy kitchen. That’s where my passion for food began, learning how food connects people and turns everyday moments into memories.
As a mom of two, I’m always on the hunt for meals that are fast, flavorful, and family-approved. So when I tasted Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad, I knew I had to recreate it at home. It’s crisp, slightly sweet, and packed with texture—perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.

In this post, I’ll show you how to make a delicious Chick Fil A Kale Salad from scratch. We’ll cover the exact ingredients, how to make the apple Dijon dressing, plus tips for adding grilled chicken, storing leftovers, and customizing it to fit your taste and nutrition goals.

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What is the Chick-fil-A KWhat is the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?

Overview of the Kale Crunch Salad Concept

The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a surprisingly simple but flavorful dish that’s gained a loyal fanbase. If you’ve ever craved a fast food side that’s both nutritious and crave-worthy, this is it. And if you’re wondering how to recreate the same great taste at home, a good Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe is the answer.

This salad features chopped curly kale, shredded green cabbage, and roasted almonds, all tossed in a sweet and tangy apple Dijon vinaigrette. The ingredients may be minimal, but the textures and flavor hit all the right notes—crisp, earthy, nutty, and just a little sweet.

Because of its light yet satisfying profile, it’s become a go-to for those looking to balance out heavier meals or eat lighter without sacrificing taste.

Why the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe Became a Fan Favorite

There are plenty of kale salads out there, but this one is unique. The Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe keeps it fresh and simple—just whole foods and a punchy homemade dressing.

Here’s why people keep coming back to it:

• It’s a minimalist salad that actually satisfies.
• It travels well—kale and cabbage stay crisp for hours.
• It’s easy to customize with protein, fruit, or extra crunch.
• It fits nearly every diet—vegetarian, keto, and low-calorie.

Even if you’re not typically a kale fan, this recipe just might change your mind. And best of all, when you make it at home, you can control every ingredient—keeping it clean, affordable, and absolutely delicious.

With this guide, you’ll be able to master the perfect Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe in your own kitchen and enjoy the flavor of your favorite fast food salad—anytime.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Ingredients Breakdown

Base Ingredients Used in Chick-fil-A’s Version

A great Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe begins with understanding the core ingredients. The magic of this salad lies in how a few simple items come together to create something so flavorful. Chick-fil-A’s original version uses just four fresh and wholesome ingredients:

Ingredient	Role in the Salad
Kale	A slightly bitter, vitamin-rich leafy green
Green Cabbage	Crunchy texture and natural sweetness
Roasted Almonds	Adds toasty flavor and protein
Apple Dijon Dressing	The signature sweet and tangy finish

The balance of crisp cabbage, hearty kale, and nutty almonds tossed in a sweet-savory vinaigrette makes this chick fil a kale salad recipe unique and memorable. It’s healthy, light, and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals—or stands alone as a complete dish when topped with protein.

Freshness is key here. If you’re planning to recreate the chick fil a kale salad recipe at home, opt for organic kale and thinly shredded cabbage. The quality of the greens directly impacts the texture and flavor.

What Makes This Salad Unique

There are dozens of kale salads out there, but what makes this chick fil a kale salad recipe stand apart is its perfect simplicity. No unnecessary ingredients. No preservatives. Just pure, fresh, real food.

Here’s why it’s become a go-to for so many:

• Balanced simplicity: This isn’t a salad with a dozen toppings. It’s focused and flavorful.
• Delicious contrast: Crunch from almonds and cabbage, softness from kale, and a bright zing from the dressing.
• Versatile base: Use this recipe as a side or dress it up with grilled chicken, fruit, or seeds for a main dish.

Unlike many fast food salads that rely on cheese or heavy dressings to feel satisfying, the chick fil a kale salad recipe keeps things light, nutritious, and naturally flavorful.

Whether you’re new to kale or looking for a fresh side dish to add to your weekly rotation, this recipe is a clean, satisfying option you can feel good about.

DIY Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Preparing the Kale and Cabbage Base

To start, you’ll need two star greens: fresh curly kale and green cabbage. These hearty vegetables not only pack in nutrients but also hold their crunch well—even after sitting in dressing for hours. That makes this salad perfect for meal prep.

Here’s how to prep them:

1. Wash and dry the kale thoroughly. Remove the thick stems and finely chop the leaves. Pro tip: use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
2. Massage the kale. Yes, you read that right. Massaging helps break down its fibers and makes it less bitter. Just drizzle a little olive oil over it and rub gently with your hands for 1–2 minutes.
3. Thinly slice the cabbage. The thinner, the better. You want it to blend evenly with the kale and not overpower it with chunky bites.

Once chopped and massaged, combine both greens in a large bowl. This is the crisp, nutritious base of your chick fil a kale salad recipe.

Toasting Almonds and Assembling the Salad

One of the most flavorful parts of this salad is the roasted almonds. They add a toasty, nutty crunch that balances the greens and dressing beautifully.

To make your own:

• Use slivered or sliced almonds for best texture.
• In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for 3–5 minutes.
• Stir constantly so they don’t burn. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and fragrant.

Now it’s time to assemble:

1. Toss the kale and cabbage together in a mixing bowl.
2. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top.
3. Wait to add dressing until just before serving to keep everything crisp.
4. Give it a quick toss and enjoy!

And there you have it—the core of your copycat Chick-fil-A kale salad, ready in under 15 minutes. You can enjoy it as is or build it up with grilled chicken, apple slices, or your favorite add-ins.

DIY Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Preparing the Kale and Cabbage Base

To bring your Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe to life, it all starts with the greens. Kale and cabbage are the heart of this dish, providing a crisp, fresh foundation that holds up beautifully under the tangy dressing.

Step-by-step prep:

1. Wash and dry the kale thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves finely.
2. Massage the kale with a bit of olive oil to soften its texture and reduce bitterness. Just a minute or two of gentle rubbing will do.
3. Shred the green cabbage thinly. You want even slices that blend well with the kale.
4. Combine both greens in a large mixing bowl to create the perfect base for your chick fil a kale salad recipe.

Not only are these greens packed with fiber and nutrients, but they also stay crisp, making this salad ideal for meal prepping days in advance.

Toasting Almonds and Assembling the Salad

No chick fil a kale salad recipe is complete without the crunchy kick of toasted almonds. This little step adds incredible depth and texture.

How to toast almonds:

• Use sliced or slivered almonds.
• Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
• Add almonds and stir continuously for 3–5 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.
• Remove from heat and let cool.

Assembly instructions:

1. Add toasted almonds to the kale and cabbage mix.
2. Drizzle with homemade apple Dijon dressing (we’ll cover that in Part 4).
3. Toss everything gently until the salad is evenly coated.
4. Serve fresh or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

What makes this chick fil a kale salad recipe so popular is how easily it transforms from a simple side into a full, satisfying meal. The natural crunch from the greens and almonds, paired with a bold dressing, makes each bite exciting and refreshing.

Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving a crowd, this copycat Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe will win everyone over—and become a regular feature in your weekly lineup.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Apple Dijon Dressing at Home

Ingredients Needed for the Dressing

The real magic behind the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe is its sweet, tangy, and slightly creamy apple Dijon vinaigrette. It ties the kale, cabbage, and almonds together and gives the salad its unmistakable flavor.

The great news? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Purpose
Apple cider vinegar	Brings tanginess and fruity depth
Dijon mustard	Adds mild heat and creamy texture
Honey or maple syrup	Sweetness to balance acidity
Extra virgin olive oil	Rich, smooth body and texture
Lemon juice (optional)	Extra brightness (if desired)
Salt & pepper	Rounds out the flavor

Exact Measurements (for 1 cup of dressing):

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan version)
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Mixing the Perfect Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s whip them into something delicious.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice (if using).
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly. This helps emulsify the dressing so it doesn’t separate.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Taste and adjust—if it’s too tangy, add a little more honey. If it’s too thick, thin with a teaspoon of water.

You can also make this dressing in a jar: just add all ingredients, screw the lid on tightly, and shake until blended.

Storage Tip: Store your homemade apple Dijon vinaigrette in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.

Why This Dressing Works So Well

The reason this apple Dijon dressing pairs perfectly with the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe comes down to contrast and balance:

• The acidity cuts through the richness of the almonds.
• The sweetness mellows out the kale’s bitterness.
• The mustard adds a creamy kick without dairy.

Once you taste this homemade version, you may never go back to bottled dressing again.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Apple Dijon Dressing at Home

Ingredients Needed for the Dressing

The secret weapon in any chick fil a kale salad recipe is the Apple Dijon Vinaigrette—a perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and creaminess. It ties all the components together, giving the salad its distinctive fast-food flavor but with a clean, homemade twist.

Here’s everything you need for your Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe dressing:

Ingredient	Why It’s Included
Apple cider vinegar	Offers fruity acidity and brightness
Dijon mustard	Adds gentle spice and creamy texture
Honey or maple syrup	Balances with natural sweetness
Olive oil	Provides body and smooth finish
Lemon juice (optional)	Boosts freshness
Salt & black pepper	Rounds out the flavor profile

Exact Measurement Guide:

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp each salt and pepper

These ingredients mirror the authentic flavor in the restaurant’s salad, giving your homemade chick fil a kale salad recipe the same crave-worthy appeal.

Mixing the Perfect Creamy Dijon Vinaigrette

To create that signature Chick-fil-A taste for your salad:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon, honey, and lemon juice.
2. While whisking, slowly drizzle in olive oil to emulsify the dressing.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Taste and adjust—if too tart, add more honey; if too thick, loosen with a teaspoon of water.

For an easier option, place all ingredients in a mason jar, screw the lid on tightly, and shake until smooth. This method works great if you’re prepping multiple portions of the chick fil a kale salad recipe ahead of time.

Storage Tip: Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 7 days—just give it a shake before each use.

Why This Dressing Completes the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe

The apple Dijon vinaigrette is more than just a dressing—it’s the glue that pulls the entire chick fil a kale salad recipe together. Here’s why it works so well:

• The apple cider vinegar brightens the bitter kale.
• Dijon mustard adds depth and a creamy base without dairy.
• Honey provides a touch of sweetness that enhances the natural flavors of cabbage and almonds.
• It’s also low-calorie, fresh, and easy to tweak based on your taste.

When paired with the greens and almonds, this homemade dressing lifts your chick fil a kale salad recipe into restaurant-quality territory. Better yet, you control the ingredients, so it’s free from additives and excess sodium.

Whether you’re meal prepping or just whipping up a quick lunch, this dressing is the essential final touch to complete your chick fil a kale salad recipe experience.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad with Grilled Chicken (Protein Add-on)

How to Prep Grilled Chicken Chick-fil-A Style

The beauty of the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe is its versatility. While the base salad is light and refreshing, adding grilled chicken turns it into a complete, satisfying meal that’s still clean and healthy.

To stay true to the original flavor, we’ll make grilled chicken that mimics Chick-fil-A’s tender, well-seasoned style—without deep frying or excess oil.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon pickle juice (yes, that’s the secret!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl or bag, coating the chicken well. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight.
2. Grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Slice and serve: Thinly slice the grilled chicken and place it over the kale salad just before serving.

This step adds lean protein without overpowering the fresh, vibrant elements of the chick fil a kale salad recipe. Plus, the hint of pickle juice gives it that signature Chick-fil-A flavor.

Combining Chicken with the Kale Crunch Salad

Now comes the fun part—building your meal!

Here’s how to serve your Chick-fil-A style salad with grilled chicken:

• Toss the salad base: Combine your prepped kale, cabbage, toasted almonds, and vinaigrette.
• Add sliced grilled chicken on top: Either layer it beautifully or chop and mix it in for even flavor throughout.
• Finish with a drizzle of extra apple Dijon dressing, a few cracks of black pepper, and maybe even a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

This protein-packed version of the chick fil a kale salad recipe is perfect for lunch meal prep, dinner, or even as a post-workout meal.

You can also make it portable by storing the salad and chicken separately, then combining them just before eating. That way, everything stays crisp and fresh.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Nutrition Facts

Calories and Macros (With and Without Chicken)

One of the biggest reasons this chick fil a kale salad recipe has become so popular is that it tastes indulgent while staying light and nutritious. Whether you’re watching calories, trying to eat more greens, or following a specific diet, this salad checks a lot of boxes.

Here’s a comparison between the original Chick-fil-A salad and the homemade version:

Version	Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbs	Fiber
Chick-fil-A (side portion)	170	4g	13g	8g	3g
Homemade (same portion)	155	4g	11g	7g	3g
With grilled chicken (4 oz)	285	28g	13g	9g	3g

As you can see, the homemade chick fil a kale salad recipe is incredibly comparable to the store version—plus you have full control over what goes into it.

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Vitamin K & A from kale and cabbage
• Good source of fiber and heart-healthy fats from almonds and olive oil
• Low in carbs, making it keto and diabetic-friendly
• Gluten-free and easy to adapt for Whole30 or Paleo diets

If you’re customizing your salad (see Part 8), you can further control the macros. Swapping almonds for sunflower seeds, or using less dressing, can cut down on fats. Adding grilled chicken boosts protein significantly without adding too many calories.

Comparing This Salad to Other Chick-fil-A Menu Items

It’s no secret that fast food isn’t usually associated with “healthy,” but the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a clear outlier.

Item	Calories	Protein	Fat
Kale Crunch Salad (side)	170	4g	13g
Small Waffle Fries	320	4g	19g
Chicken Sandwich	440	28g	19g

Swapping fries for the kale salad can instantly lower your fat and calorie intake while adding nutrients—and if you follow this chick fil a kale salad recipe at home, the benefits multiply.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Price and Availability

How Much Does the Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Cost?

For a side item, the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is one of the most budget-friendly options on the menu. On average, it costs around $2.19 to $2.79 depending on location. That price makes it a great alternative to fries—especially if you’re looking for something lighter, fresher, and more nutritious.

If you’ve ever grabbed one during your lunch break, you know it’s small but satisfying. Still, the portion size may leave you wanting more. That’s where a homemade chick fil a kale salad recipe really shines—it costs less per serving and gives you full control over ingredients and portion size.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Option	Price (avg)	Serving Size	Customizable
Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch (Side)	$2.49	Small	No
Homemade Version (per serving)	$1.30	Medium–Large	Yes

Making your own chick fil a kale salad recipe at home saves you money over time—especially if you prep in bulk for the week.

Is the Kale Salad Always Available at Chick-fil-A?

The Kale Crunch Salad is a permanent side item on most Chick-fil-A menus across the U.S. It replaced the Superfood Side in 2020 and quickly became a favorite thanks to its clean ingredients and unique flavor.

However, availability may vary:

• Some smaller or limited-menu locations (like airports or college campuses) may not offer it.
• During supply shortages, it could be temporarily removed.

That’s why having a reliable chick fil a kale salad recipe at home is smart—you never have to worry about it being sold out or off the menu.

Why Homemade Beats Takeout in Value

Beyond cost, making this salad yourself offers better:

• Ingredient quality: Use organic kale, raw almonds, and low-sugar dressings.
• Freshness: Greens are crisper, almonds are freshly toasted.
• Nutrition control: Choose how much dressing and toppings to add.
• Scalability: Easily prep multiple servings for a fraction of the cost.

With just a few simple steps, your kitchen becomes the most consistent and budget-friendly “Chick-fil-A” on the block—thanks to this chick fil a kale salad recipe.

Best Copycat Variations and Customizations

Vegan & Vegetarian Options for Your Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe

The base chick fil a kale salad recipe is already vegetarian, but you can easily tweak it to be 100% vegan without sacrificing flavor.

Here’s how to do it:

• Swap honey for maple syrup in the dressing to make it vegan-friendly.
• Add chickpeas or crispy tofu instead of grilled chicken for plant-based protein.
• Top with vegan cheese shreds (optional) if you want a creamy contrast.
• For added zest, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime over the salad just before serving.

This vegan variation still delivers the crunch, the tang, and the satisfaction—without any animal products. It’s a clean, green powerhouse that proves how flexible the chick fil a kale salad recipe can be.

Extra Toppings to Upgrade Your Salad

You’ve nailed the classic version—now it’s time to get creative. These additions can take your chick fil a kale salad recipe to the next level:

Topping	Why It Works
Dried cranberries	Add a tart, chewy pop of sweetness
Sliced apples or pears	Fresh fruit balances the dressing’s tang
Goat cheese crumbles	Creaminess adds richness (non-vegan)
Sunflower seeds	Double the crunch and nutrition
Pickled red onions	Add acidity and color contrast
Roasted sweet potatoes	Makes the salad heartier and seasonal

You can even go spicy by adding a dash of chili flakes to the dressing or topping the salad with sliced jalapeños. Don’t be afraid to make the chick fil a kale salad recipe your own—it’s designed to be the perfect canvas.

Low-Carb, Keto & Paleo Tweaks

On a low-carb or Paleo diet? This chick fil a kale salad recipe can flex to meet your needs.

Here’s how:

• Use less or no sweetener in the dressing.
• Add avocado slices for extra healthy fats.
• Stick with raw almonds and skip dried fruits to cut carbs.
• Add grilled salmon or steak strips for a Paleo protein source.

Thanks to the sturdy greens and clean ingredients, the salad base itself already fits well into most diets. Just a few tweaks make it fully compliant with keto or Paleo plans.

Storing, Meal Prepping, and Serving Tips

How to Keep Kale Salad Fresh for Days

One of the best things about the chick fil a kale salad recipe is that it actually gets better with time—unlike many salads that wilt within hours. Kale and cabbage are hearty greens that hold up well in the fridge, making this recipe ideal for prepping ahead.

Tips for freshness:

• Store the dressing separately: Keep it in a small jar or airtight container and only add it when you’re ready to eat. This keeps the greens crisp.
• Use airtight containers: For best results, store the undressed salad in a glass meal prep container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Toast almonds fresh: If possible, toast and add almonds the day you plan to eat the salad for maximum crunch.

Properly stored, your chick fil a kale salad recipe base can last up to 5 days in the fridge without losing quality. Just add protein and dressing when you’re ready to serve.

Ideal Pairings and Presentation Tips

The chick fil a kale salad recipe can shine on its own or play a supporting role in a larger meal. Here are a few ideas to serve it like a pro:

Perfect pairings:

• Grilled chicken sandwich or lettuce wrap
• Butternut squash soup for a cozy lunch combo
• Sweet potato fries for a crunchy contrast
• Fruit-infused water or light lemonade to complement the tangy dressing

Presentation tips:

• Toss right before serving to keep the salad vibrant and crunchy.
• Top with freshly ground black pepper or a few red pepper flakes for visual contrast and a hint of spice.
• Use a wide, shallow bowl for serving—it helps distribute ingredients evenly and showcases color and texture.

Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or serving guests at a weekend brunch, this chick fil a kale salad recipe delivers both beauty and flavor every time.

Conclusion: Make the Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe Your Way

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original or just discovering it for the first time, this Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe gives you everything you love about the fast food favorite—only fresher, healthier, and fully customizable at home.

From the crunch of kale and cabbage to the roasted almonds and that irresistible apple Dijon dressing, it’s a recipe that proves clean eating can still be crave-worthy. Add grilled chicken for a protein-packed lunch, switch up the toppings to fit your dietary needs, or prep it for a week’s worth of easy meals—you’re in full control.

Homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this Chick-fil-A favorite and enjoy it any time, without the drive-thru.

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