Sam’s Club chicken salad is a favorite for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s made with simple, fresh ingredients that blend perfectly. Many shoppers buy it regularly—but what if you could make it at home?
Introduction to Chicken Salad Sam’s Club Recipe
Sam’s Club chicken salad has gained a loyal following for its rich, creamy texture and straightforward, satisfying flavor. Found in the deli section of Sam’s Club stores, this salad is known for its quality ingredients, consistent taste, and convenient packaging. It’s a go-to option for busy families, party planners, and anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal or snack.
What sets Sam’s Club chicken salad apart is its balance—it’s not overly sweet, tangy, or heavy. The chicken is tender and moist, the mayonnaise is smooth and not overpowering, and the simple seasoning brings it all together. Whether you’ve had it in a sandwich, with crackers, or straight from the tub, it’s a comfort food many people crave.
Making your own version at home means you can enjoy the same flavors anytime, without the trip to the store. Plus, it allows you to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste—add a little crunch, a touch of sweetness, or go lighter on the mayo.
Key Features of the Sam’s Club Version
The Sam’s Club chicken salad stands out for its simplicity, consistency, and flavor. Here are the signature features that make this salad a favorite:
Creamy, But Not Heavy
The salad has a smooth, creamy texture—thanks to a balanced amount of mayonnaise. It’s rich without feeling greasy or overly thick, making it easy to enjoy in large or small portions.
Tender, Shredded Chicken
The chicken used is moist, well-shredded, and never dry. It blends effortlessly with the mayo and other ingredients, giving every bite a consistent texture.
Mild, Savory Flavor
There’s no overpowering spice or sweetness. The flavor is mellow, savory, and slightly tangy—appealing to most palates. A hint of salt, a touch of pepper, and minimal seasoning help keep it neutral and versatile.
Minimal Ingredients
Sam’s Club keeps it simple. The ingredient list typically includes chicken breast, mayo, a bit of seasoning, and sometimes celery for a light crunch. There are no strong herbs or sweet fruits—just classic, clean flavor.
Versatile for Any Meal
This chicken salad works as a sandwich filling, a topping for crackers, or even a dip with veggies. Its neutral taste pairs well with bread, wraps, croissants, or eaten on its own.
Nutritional Profile
While it’s creamy, it’s not loaded with extras. A typical serving is protein-rich due to the generous amount of chicken. It does contain fat from the mayo, so portion control is key for those watching calories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the flavor and texture of Sam’s Club chicken salad, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. This copycat recipe focuses on freshness, balance, and the right proportions to match the original.
Main Ingredients:
Cooked Chicken Breast (3 cups, shredded)
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal. Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor or cook your own by boiling, baking, or poaching.
Mayonnaise (1 cup)
Go with a high-quality, full-fat mayo for that creamy texture. Duke’s or Hellmann’s work well. Avoid using salad dressings or light versions, as they change the flavor.
Celery (½ cup, finely chopped)
Adds a light crunch and freshness. Don’t skip this—it balances the creaminess of the mayo.
Salt (½ tsp)
Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and mayo.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp)
Adds a gentle kick without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Optional Add-ins (for personal preference):
- A dash of onion powder or garlic powder: For a subtle flavor boost.
- A squeeze of lemon juice: Adds brightness and a bit of acidity.
- Paprika (a pinch): Optional for a touch of color and warmth.
Tip: Keep it minimal if you want to stay true to the Sam’s Club version. The original is very straightforward and doesn’t include fruits, nuts, or strong spices.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making a copycat version of Sam’s Club chicken salad is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any complex techniques. Follow these steps for the best results:
Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Boil or Bake:
Cook 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in lightly salted water (boil for 15–20 minutes) or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.
Cool and Shred:
Let the chicken cool completely. Then shred it finely using your hands, forks, or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
- Tip: Shredding instead of chopping gives the salad the soft, smooth texture like the Sam’s Club version.
Step 2: Chop the Celery
Finely dice ½ cup of celery. Keep the pieces small so they blend into the salad without overpowering the texture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add the shredded chicken.
- Stir in the chopped celery.
- Spoon in 1 cup of mayonnaise.
- Add ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste).
Mix everything until well combined and evenly coated.
Optional: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of garlic/onion powder if you prefer a slight flavor boost.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors blend and gives the salad the cool, creamy texture people love.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust (Optional)
After chilling, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. If it feels too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of milk or more mayo.
Tips to Match the Original Flavor
If you want your homemade chicken salad to taste as close as possible to the Sam’s Club version, a few simple tweaks and techniques can make a big difference. These tips focus on getting the right texture, flavor balance, and overall consistency:
Use White Meat Only (Chicken Breast)
Sam’s Club uses white meat chicken, which is lean and mild in flavor. Stick to chicken breast for that same clean taste and texture. Avoid using dark meat, as it may make the salad feel greasy or too rich.
Shred, Don’t Chop
Finely shredded chicken is key to getting the smooth and uniform texture Sam’s Club is known for. Shredded meat absorbs the mayo better and creates a softer mouthfeel compared to cubed chicken.
- Pro tip: Use a stand mixer on low with a paddle attachment to shred chicken quickly and evenly.
Choose Full-Fat Mayonnaise
A thick, creamy mayonnaise like Hellmann’s, Duke’s, or Best Foods brings the rich texture and mild tang needed. Low-fat or flavored mayo may change the taste and won’t give the same consistency.
Keep Ingredients Simple
Resist the urge to add too many extras like grapes, nuts, onions, or herbs. The Sam’s Club version is intentionally simple—just chicken, mayo, celery, salt, and pepper. This is part of what makes it so appealing.
Let It Chill
Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the salad firm up to the ideal texture.
Adjust the Mayo-to-Chicken Ratio
If your salad feels dry, add a bit more mayo. If it’s too wet, stir in a little more shredded chicken or refrigerate it longer. The goal is a thick, scoopable consistency—not soupy or too stiff.
Taste and Balance the Seasoning
Start with a small amount of salt and pepper. After chilling, taste again and adjust gently. The flavor should be mellow, not overly salty or spicy.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential to keeping your homemade Sam’s Club-style chicken salad fresh, safe to eat, and tasting its best. Here’s everything you need to know about how to store it and how long it will last:
Refrigeration Is a Must
Always store chicken salad in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Use an airtight container to prevent the salad from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge. If you’re using a bowl, tightly cover it with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Important: Never leave chicken salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as it can quickly become unsafe to eat.
Shelf Life in the Refrigerator
Homemade chicken salad typically stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage before eating, such as a sour smell, watery texture, or discoloration.
Can You Freeze It?
Technically, you can freeze chicken salad—but it’s not recommended if you want to preserve the original texture and taste.
Why not? Mayonnaise separates when frozen and thawed, which can result in a grainy, watery salad. If you must freeze it, use freezer-safe containers and eat it within 1 month. Expect a change in consistency when thawed.
Meal Prep and Portioning Tips
If making a large batch, divide it into smaller containers so you only expose what you need. Perfect for meal prepping lunches or snacks in advance for the week.
Signs It’s Time to Toss
Discard the chicken salad if you notice any of the following:
- Sour or off smell
- Change in color (e.g., grey or brown)
- Slimy or watery texture
- Mold or any unusual growth
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about Sam’s Club-style chicken salad is how versatile it is. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, hosting a party, or planning a picnic, this creamy, flavorful salad can be served in several delicious ways.
Classic Sandwiches
- Bread Options: Use white, wheat, rye, sourdough, or multigrain bread.
- Croissants or Brioche Buns: These soft, buttery breads add an upscale touch—perfect for brunches or special occasions.
- Add-ons: Lettuce, tomato slices, or even thin cucumber strips add freshness and texture.
Tip: Lightly toast the bread for added crunch and structure.
Wraps and Lettuce Cups
- Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken salad in flour or spinach tortillas for a portable lunch.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, scoop the salad into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Crackers and Pita Chips
Serve it as a dip alongside a platter of crackers, pita chips, or crostini. This is a great option for parties or as an appetizer.
- Tip: Choose sturdy crackers that won’t break easily when scooping.
Stuffed Vegetables
- Tomatoes: Hollow out large tomatoes and fill them with the salad for a light lunch.
- Bell Peppers or Avocados: Cut in halves and scoop chicken salad inside for a colorful, nutrient-packed presentation.
On a Bed of Greens
Place a generous scoop over mixed salad greens for a refreshing, protein-packed lunch. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or lemon juice—no dressing needed, since the salad already contains mayo.
Chicken Salad Sliders
Serve on small dinner rolls or slider buns for a fun party snack or game-day appetizer. Add a small pickle slice or shredded lettuce for extra crunch.
Brunch Boards or Meal Platters
Create a chicken salad board with crackers, cheeses, fruits, and nuts. Combine with hard-boiled eggs, veggie sticks, and grapes for a full lunch spread.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic Sam’s Club-style chicken salad is loved for its simplicity, you can easily adjust it to suit your personal taste, dietary needs, or creativity. Here are several ways to modify or enhance the basic recipe:
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise
Replace half or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat and boost protein.
- Tip: Use full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture.
Low-Fat or Avocado Mayo
Swap traditional mayonnaise with lighter or heart-healthy alternatives. Avocado mayo adds a mild, buttery taste.
Add More Vegetables
Stir in diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra nutrients and crunch.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version
Stick to high-protein chicken and full-fat mayo. Serve in lettuce wraps or with celery sticks instead of bread or crackers. Avoid sweeteners or sugary add-ins.
Sweet and Savory Twist
If you enjoy a touch of sweetness in your chicken salad:
- Add-ins: Try red grapes (halved), dried cranberries, or chopped apples.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds for crunch.
Note: This will take it farther from the original Sam’s Club style but still makes a tasty variation.
Spicy or Bold Flavor Boosts
Add a small spoon of Dijon or yellow mustard for tang. Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Stir in diced pickles or jalapeños for extra bite.
Dairy-Free or Egg-Free Substitutes
Use vegan mayo (made from avocado oil or soy) to make it suitable for egg-free or dairy-free diets. Ensure the cooked chicken has no added dairy-based seasonings.
Protein Alternatives
- Canned Chicken or Turkey: A convenient swap, though the texture might be slightly different.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Adds depth of flavor and is great for quick prep.
Herb and Citrus Variations
Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can brighten the salad. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for a zesty lift.
Conclusion
Sam’s Club chicken salad is beloved for its creamy texture, simple ingredients, and versatile flavor—and now you can recreate it right at home. With just a few steps and pantry staples, you can enjoy a fresh, homemade version that’s just as satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation to suit your taste, this chicken salad is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even party platters. Give it a try and make it a staple in your kitchen—it’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
FAQS
Chicken Salad Sam’s Club Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Pull the chicken off of the bones from the rotisserie and place on a cutting board.
- Dice the chicken and add to a large mixing bowl.
- Dice celery and pickles and add to mixing bowl.
- Slice Grapes in half or quarters (your choice) and place in bowl.
- Gently stir ingredients together until well mixed.
- Stir in mayo.
- Serve on croissant or your favorite bread.
- Refrigerate remaining chicken salad and store for up to 1 week.