Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Craving the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home? This simple, fresh, and flavorful copycat recipe brings the same crunch and tang—without the drive-thru. Made with wholesome ingredients and a zesty apple cider vinaigrette, it’s the perfect healthy side or light meal. Whether you’re a fan of Chick-fil-A or just love a good kale salad, this recipe delivers. Read on to learn how to recreate it step-by-step!

Key Ingredients Overview

To recreate the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home, start with the right ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in delivering the salad’s signature taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Kale

The star of the salad. Chick-fil-A uses curly kale, known for its firm texture and slightly bitter flavor. Make sure to wash, stem, and massage the kale to soften it and reduce bitterness. Massaging also helps the dressing absorb better.

Green Cabbage

Adds extra crunch and a mild sweetness that balances the kale. Slice it thinly for a light, refreshing texture. This combo of kale and cabbage is what gives the salad its signature bite.

Toasted Almonds

Sliced or slivered almonds provide a nutty crunch that complements the greens perfectly. Toasting them enhances their flavor and brings a warm, earthy depth to the salad.

Apple Cider Vinegar

This is the base of the dressing. It adds a crisp, tangy kick that brightens the entire salad. Look for raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar for the best flavor and health benefits.

Dijon Mustard

Gives the dressing a bit of sharpness and body. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar blend smoothly.

Sweetener

Chick-fil-A’s version has a subtle sweetness. You can use maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar to balance the tartness of the vinegar and mustard. Adjust to your taste preference.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Dressing (Apple Cider Dijon Vinaigrette)

The secret to the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad’s crave-worthy flavor is its Apple Cider Dijon Vinaigrette. It’s light, tangy, and slightly sweet—perfect for coating hearty greens like kale and cabbage without overpowering them.

Here’s what you need to know about making it at home:

Core Dressing Ingredients

Apple Cider Vinegar

This forms the acidic base of the vinaigrette. It’s fruity, sharp, and refreshing—key to that signature tang.

Dijon Mustard

Adds a mild sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing. It also gives a slight creaminess without any dairy.

Olive Oil

Use extra virgin olive oil for a smooth, rich texture. It balances the acidity and adds healthy fats.

Sweetener

Chick-fil-A’s version has a touch of sweetness. You can use maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar—each offers a slightly different taste. Maple syrup is the most popular choice for a rich, natural sweetness.

Salt and Black Pepper

Essential for rounding out the flavors. Adjust to taste.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• Garlic powder or minced fresh garlic For a bolder, savory note.
• A splash of lemon juice To add extra brightness.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes If you like a little heat.

How to Make the Dressing

Whisk It Together

Combine apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sweetener in a small bowl.

Add Oil Slowly

While whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies and thickens slightly.

Season

Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed.

Chill (Optional)

Let the dressing rest in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to deepen the flavor before tossing it with the salad.

How to Make the Kale Crunch Salad (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Creating your own Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home is easy and satisfying. Follow these clear steps to make a fresh, flavorful salad with perfect texture and balance.

Step 1: Prep the Kale

Wash and dry the kale thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the tough stems and tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt for 1–2 minutes. This helps soften the leaves, making them easier to chew and digest.

Step 2: Shred the Cabbage

Use green cabbage for a mild, crunchy addition. Shred it finely using a knife or mandoline. Combine with the massaged kale in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Apple Cider Dijon Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk until emulsified or shake if using a jar with a lid.

Step 4: Toast the Almonds

Use sliced or slivered almonds. Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring often until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 5: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the kale and cabbage mixture. Toss well to coat evenly. Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Add the Crunch

Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Optional Additions

• Dried cranberries or cherries for sweetness
• Crumbled feta or parmesan cheese for creaminess
• Grilled chicken or tofu for added protein

Tips, Tricks, and Cooking Equipment

Making the perfect Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home is simple—but a few tools and pro tips can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know for best results.

Essential Equipment

Large Mixing Bowl

You’ll need enough room to massage the kale and toss everything together evenly.

Sharp Chef’s Knife

Crucial for chopping kale and shredding cabbage finely and safely.

Cutting Board

A sturdy surface to handle all your slicing.

Small Whisk or Jar with Lid

To quickly mix or shake the dressing ingredients until emulsified.

Skillet or Pan

For toasting almonds—dry toasting brings out their nutty flavor without extra oil.

Salad Spinner (Optional)

Speeds up drying kale after washing, preventing a soggy salad.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Massage the Kale Thoroughly

This step is crucial. It breaks down fibers in the kale, making it tender and pleasant to eat. Don’t skip it!

Use Fresh Ingredients

Crisp cabbage, firm kale, and good-quality olive oil will elevate the flavor and texture.

Let the Salad Rest

After tossing with dressing, let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the greens to absorb the vinaigrette.

Toast Almonds Just Before Serving

For maximum crunch and freshness, toast the almonds the same day you plan to serve the salad.

Taste and Adjust the Dressing

Everyone’s taste is different—add a touch more sweetener or vinegar to balance it just the way you like.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using kale with stems intact

The stems are fibrous and tough—always remove them.

Skipping the kale massage

Unmassaged kale can be too bitter and chewy.

Overdressing the salad

Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid sogginess.

Customization Ideas and Variations

One of the best parts about making the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home is the ability to customize it to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you want to add more protein, try a new flavor twist, or make it suitable for specific diets, there are plenty of easy ways to personalize this recipe.

Add Cheese for Creaminess

• Feta cheese: Adds tang and creaminess that pairs well with the tart dressing.
• Parmesan shavings: Offers a salty, nutty flavor that complements the almonds.
• Goat cheese: Great for a soft, spreadable texture and a bold punch of flavor.

Incorporate Dried Fruit for Sweetness

• Dried cranberries: A popular choice that balances the bitterness of kale.
• Raisins or golden raisins: Subtle and chewy with natural sweetness.
• Chopped dried cherries: For a tart and fruity flavor upgrade.

Boost Protein for a Complete Meal

• Grilled chicken: The most common and classic addition.
• Roasted chickpeas: A plant-based, crunchy, and protein-rich option.
• Tofu or tempeh: Great for vegetarians or vegans. Marinate for extra flavor.
• Hard-boiled eggs: A quick, easy way to make the salad more filling.

Try Alternative Dressings

Want to switch it up? Here are some variations:

• Maple-Mustard Vinaigrette: Swap honey or sugar for pure maple syrup for a deeper, natural sweetness.
• Lemon-Garlic Dressing: Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a fresh twist.
• Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing: Add a tangy, protein-rich base for a different texture and flavor.

Swap the Nuts

• Pecans or walnuts: For a richer, buttery crunch.
• Sunflower seeds: A nut-free alternative with great crunch.
• Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): Add color and a mild nutty flavor.

Make it Gluten-Free or Vegan

This salad is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your dressing ingredients are certified GF. To keep it vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and skip any dairy add-ins like cheese.

Serving Suggestions

The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad copycat isn’t just a delicious and healthy side—it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it on its own, pair it with a main dish, or build it into a complete meal. Here are several creative and practical ways to serve this salad at home.

As a Side Dish

This salad is the perfect side for a variety of meals thanks to its light, crisp texture and tangy dressing.

• With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or even salmon. The acidity in the vinaigrette cuts through rich, savory flavors perfectly.
• Next to Sandwiches or Wraps: A great alternative to fries or chips. Try it with a grilled chicken sandwich, turkey wrap, or veggie panini.
• Alongside Soups: Pairs well with creamy soups like potato, tomato bisque, or even a hearty lentil stew.

As a Light Main Course

With a few additions, this salad easily becomes a full meal.

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, roasted chickpeas, or tofu for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Include Whole Grains: Add a scoop of quinoa, farro, or brown rice for extra fiber and substance.
• Make a Salad Bowl: Layer kale salad as a base and add toppings like avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.

In a Meal Prep Plan

The salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

• Prep ahead: Store the dressing separately and add it just before eating to keep the greens crisp.
• Portion in containers: Great for work or school lunches. Add protein separately to keep everything fresh.

For Gatherings and Potlucks

This salad is a crowd-pleaser and travels well.

Serve on a large platter with toppings on the side so guests can customize. Double or triple the recipe for larger groups—it’s affordable and easy to scale.

Pair With Seasonal Dishes

• In summer: Serve with grilled veggies, cold pasta salads, or lemon-herb chicken.
• In fall or winter: Add roasted squash, apples, or cranberries for seasonal flair.

Nutritional Benefits of the Kale Crunch Salad

Beyond its flavor and crunch, the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad copycat is packed with nutrients that make it a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this salad dietitian-approved and beneficial for your overall well-being.

Kale – A Nutrient Powerhouse

• Rich in Vitamins A, C, and K: These vitamins support eye health, boost the immune system, and aid in blood clotting.
• High in Fiber: Helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Loaded with Antioxidants: Protects your cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Low in Calories: Kale is nutrient-dense but low in calories, making it ideal for weight-conscious diets.

Cabbage – Adds Crunch and Health

• Vitamin C Boost: Helps with collagen production and immune defense.
• Supports Digestion: Thanks to its fiber content and gut-friendly compounds.
• Low in Carbs: Great for low-carb or keto meal plans.

Apple Cider Vinegar – The Gut-Friendly Acid

• May Help with Blood Sugar Control: Especially when consumed with meals.
• Supports Digestive Health: Contains acetic acid, which may aid digestion and metabolism.
• Adds Flavor Without Calories: Makes the dressing tangy and light.

Almonds – Healthy Fats and Crunch

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Full of monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
• Source of Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that supports skin and cell health.
• Provides Protein and Fiber: Helps you stay satisfied longer.

Olive Oil – Good for the Heart

• Rich in Antioxidants and Anti-inflammatory Compounds: Especially oleocanthal, which has similar effects to ibuprofen.
• Contains Monounsaturated Fats: Known to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol.
• Supports Brain and Joint Health: Especially when used in regular moderation.

Naturally Gluten-Free and Easily Made Vegan

The base salad is gluten-free and dairy-free. Swap honey for maple syrup to make it 100% plant-based. Perfect for clean-eating, paleo, or whole-food diets.

Light but Satisfying

This salad is filling without being heavy. It’s ideal for weight management, post-workout meals, or as a refreshing side to heavier dishes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great advantages of this Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad copycat recipe is how well it stores. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers, proper storage keeps your salad fresh, flavorful, and crunchy.

How to Store the Salad

Refrigerator Storage (Undressed Salad)

Store the kale and cabbage mixture without dressing or almonds in an airtight container.

Shelf life:

Up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator. Keep the toasted almonds and dressing separate to preserve their texture and crunch.

Refrigerator Storage (Dressed Salad)

If the salad is already tossed with dressing, it will still hold up surprisingly well thanks to the sturdy greens.

Shelf life:

Up to 2 days before the texture starts to soften too much. Add almonds just before serving to maintain crunch.

Storing the Dressing

Refrigerate in a Sealed Jar or Bottle

Homemade vinaigrette lasts up to 1 week in the fridge. Shake or whisk before each use as ingredients may separate. If using olive oil, the dressing may solidify slightly—let it sit at room temp for a few minutes to loosen.

Storing Toasted Almonds

Store in a Cool, Dry Container

Place toasted almonds in an airtight container at room temperature.

Shelf life:

Up to 1 week. Avoid refrigeration, which can cause them to absorb moisture and lose crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips for Meal Prep

• Pre-Chop Greens: Wash, dry, and chop kale and cabbage ahead of time. Store in sealed containers or resealable bags with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
• Pre-Make Dressing: Whip up the dressing in advance and keep it ready in a jar.
• Portion Individual Servings: For lunches, divide the salad base, dressing, and toppings into separate containers. Combine them just before eating for a fresh meal.

Freezing? Not Recommended

Kale and cabbage do not freeze well in raw form for salads. Freezing will break down their structure, resulting in a mushy texture. The dressing and nuts also lose quality after freezing.

Kale Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Discover how to make the delicious kale salad Chick-fil-A recipe at home with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. A healthy, crunchy favorite you’ll love!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Salad

• 4 cups 268g curly kale chopped
• 1 cup 89g green cabbage shredded
• ¼ cup 36g roasted almonds slivers

Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup 10g extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons 10g fresh lemon
• 1 tablespoon 15 dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons 30 apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons 42g honey, blue agave or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• sharp knife
• cutting board

Method

 

1. Kale: Wash and dry the kale with paper towels. Remove the rib with your hands or a knife, and cut into bite-sized pieces. Place the bite-sized pieces in a medium-sized bowl. Toss with about a teaspoon of olive oil and a small squeeze of lemon. Massage the kale with your hands for 2-3 minutes.
2. Combine: Combine the kale and shredded green cabbage in a large mixing bowl
3. Vinaigrette: Mix the apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside, using a mason jar or a small bowl.
4. Toss: Drizzle the Dijon mustard Vinegrette Dressing and sprinkle the roasted almond.