La Madeleine is known for its comforting French-inspired dishes, and their chicken salad is a customer favorite. It’s creamy, fresh, and perfectly seasoned, making it a must-try recipe at home. This copycat version captures the same flavor and texture you love from the café. Whether you enjoy it on a croissant, as a wrap, or with fresh greens, this recipe is simple yet delicious. Keep reading to learn how to make La Madeleine’s chicken salad in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

Introduction to La Madeleine Chicken Salad Recipe

La Madeleine Country French Café has built its reputation on serving warm, comforting food with a touch of French charm. Among its most loved menu items, the chicken salad stands out as a classic that guests return to again and again.

What makes it so special is its perfect balance—tender chicken mixed with a creamy dressing, crisp vegetables, and subtle flavors that keep it light yet satisfying. Unlike heavy deli-style salads, La Madeleine’s version feels fresh, simple, and versatile.

Fans often enjoy it as part of a light lunch plate, tucked inside a buttery croissant, or paired with fruit for a refreshing meal. Its popularity has led many home cooks to try recreating it in their own kitchens, seeking that same café-style flavor in a homemade version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of chicken salad recipes out there, but La Madeleine’s version has a charm of its own. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need anything fancy to achieve the creamy, café-style taste. Everyday ingredients come together to create something special.
Perfectly Balanced: The combination of tender chicken, smooth dressing, and crunchy mix-ins offers a satisfying texture in every bite.
Versatile and Easy to Serve: Enjoy it on a buttery croissant, scoop it over fresh greens, or serve it with fruit for a light and refreshing meal.
Quick to Prepare: With cooked chicken on hand, this recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
Customizable to Your Taste: Adjust the creaminess, add extra herbs, or swap ingredients to fit your preferences without losing its classic charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate La Madeleine’s famous chicken salad at home, you’ll need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the creamy, café-style flavor.

Main Ingredients:

Cooked Chicken: Traditionally, poached or roasted chicken breast works best. Rotisserie chicken is also a convenient option. Use finely chopped or shredded pieces for the right texture.
Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing. Choose a good-quality mayonnaise for the creamiest result.
Celery: Adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the creaminess of the salad.
Red Onion or Green Onion: For a mild sharpness that enhances the flavor without overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Optional Add-Ins:

Grapes: For a touch of sweetness and freshness, just like in many café-style chicken salads.
Pecans or Almonds: Lightly toasted nuts add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill can brighten the taste.
Greek Yogurt: Use in place of part of the mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier version.

Ingredient Tips:

Make sure the chicken is cooled before mixing to prevent the mayonnaise from separating. Dice the celery and onions finely for a smooth, café-style consistency. If you like a sweeter chicken salad, add more grapes. For a savory twist, focus on herbs and nuts.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making La Madeleine’s chicken salad at home is simple and doesn’t require complicated techniques. Follow these steps for the perfect result:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with about 2–3 cups of cooked chicken breast. You can poach, roast, or use rotisserie chicken. Dice or shred it finely so it blends smoothly with the dressing.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Dice 2–3 celery stalks into small, even pieces for crunch. Finely chop 2–3 tablespoons of red onion or green onion. If adding grapes, slice them in half for bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

½ to ¾ cup mayonnaise (adjust for creaminess). Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the chicken, celery, onions, and grapes (if using) into the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. For more crunch, fold in toasted nuts right before serving.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together and gives the salad its refreshing taste.

Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture

La Madeleine’s chicken salad is known for its creamy consistency and fresh taste. To make your homemade version just as delicious, keep these tips in mind:

Use Tender Chicken

Poach or roast chicken breast for the best results. Avoid overcooking, as dry chicken won’t blend well with the dressing. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick alternative that still delivers great flavor.

Dice Ingredients Finely

Small, even pieces of chicken, celery, and onions give the salad its smooth café-style texture. Large chunks can make the salad feel uneven.

Balance Creaminess and Crunch

Too much mayonnaise can overwhelm the salad. Start with less and add more if needed. The crunch from celery or nuts balances the creaminess perfectly.

Add Sweetness Carefully

Grapes or apples bring a fresh, sweet contrast, but don’t overdo it. A small handful is enough to keep the flavors balanced without making the salad too sweet.

Season Gradually

Salt and pepper should be added in small amounts and adjusted to taste after chilling, as flavors intensify over time.

Chill Before Serving

Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and gives the dressing a smoother consistency.

Customize to Your Liking

For a lighter version, replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs for extra freshness. Toasted pecans or almonds can be folded in just before serving for a nutty crunch.

Serving Suggestions

One of the reasons La Madeleine’s chicken salad is so beloved is its versatility. It’s light, creamy, and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it at home:

Classic Croissant Sandwich

The traditional way to serve this salad is on a buttery, flaky croissant. The rich pastry complements the creamy chicken filling perfectly. Add lettuce or tomato slices for extra freshness.

Fresh Salad Plate

For a lighter option, scoop the chicken salad onto a bed of mixed greens. Pair it with fresh fruit, sliced cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for a refreshing lunch.

Wraps or Pita Pockets

Spread the chicken salad inside a soft tortilla or pita pocket. Add shredded lettuce, spinach, or even sprouts for a healthy, portable meal.

Stuffed Avocados or Tomatoes

Hollow out an avocado half or a large tomato and fill it with chicken salad. This presentation makes a beautiful low-carb, nutrient-rich option.

Appetizer Cups or Crackers

Spoon small portions into lettuce cups or serve with crackers for a party-friendly appetizer. This is a simple way to make the dish elegant and sharable.

With Soup or Quiche

Just like at La Madeleine, pair your chicken salad with a warm bowl of soup or a slice of quiche for a comforting café-style meal at home.

Meal Prep Bowls

Divide portions into airtight containers with fruit, veggies, and crackers for quick grab-and-go lunches during the week.

Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas

One of the best things about La Madeleine’s chicken salad is how well it keeps. With a little planning, you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Refrigeration Tips

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay good in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Always give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.

Make-Ahead Meal Prep

Cook and shred your chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store it separately in the fridge, then mix with the dressing just before serving. You can also chop celery, onions, and grapes ahead of time to save prep work later. Divide the finished chicken salad into small containers for ready-to-go lunches.

Freezing Notes

Freezing is not recommended, as mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate when thawed, leaving the salad watery and unappetizing. If you want to freeze part of the recipe, freeze only the plain shredded chicken and add the dressing and vegetables after thawing.

Serving After Storage

For the freshest taste, add nuts or herbs just before serving so they don’t lose their crunch or brightness. If the salad feels a bit dry after chilling, stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise or yogurt to refresh the texture.

Nutritional Information

La Madeleine’s chicken salad is creamy, satisfying, and a great source of protein. While it’s indulgent enough to feel like comfort food, it can also fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s what you can expect nutritionally from a typical serving (about 1 cup):

Estimated Nutrition per Serving:

Calories: 300–350
Protein: 20–25 g
Fat: 20–25 g
Carbohydrates: 5–10 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sugar: 2–4 g

(Exact values will vary depending on ingredients, portion size, and add-ins.)

Health Benefits:

High in Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
Low in Carbs: This makes it suitable for low-carb or keto-friendly diets, especially when served without bread.
Customizable for Health Goals: Swap part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and boost probiotics. Add extra veggies for more fiber and nutrients.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Mayonnaise adds creaminess but also raises the fat and calorie content. Light mayo or yogurt can help make it lighter. Nuts add healthy fats but should be used in moderation if you’re watching calories. Grapes or apples increase natural sugar, so adjust based on your dietary needs.

Conclusion

La Madeleine’s chicken salad is a timeless favorite for good reason—simple ingredients, creamy texture, and endless versatility. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the same café-style flavor in your own kitchen, whether tucked inside a buttery croissant, served over greens, or prepared ahead for quick lunches. By following the tips, storage ideas, and variations shared above, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also adaptable to your taste and lifestyle. Give it a try, and bring a little bit of La Madeleine’s charm to your table.

FAQS

What is in La Madeleine chicken salad?

La Madeleine chicken salad is a French-inspired recipe made with tender roasted chicken breast, mayonnaise, hard-boiled eggs, and finely chopped celery. It’s simple yet creamy, offering a balance of protein and crunch, often served with fresh bread or greens.

What are the 4 ingredients in chicken salad?

The basic four ingredients are:Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)Mayonnaise (or a lighter substitute)Celery (for crunch)Seasonings (like salt and pepper)This is the classic base, and you can build on it with extra flavors.

What ingredients do you put in chicken salad?

Common ingredients include:Chicken (grilled, baked, or roasted)Mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or sour cream as a binderVegetables like celery, onion, or bell pepperFlavor boosters like Dijon mustard, lemon juice, or fresh herbsAdd-ins like grapes, apples, nuts, or cranberries for sweetness and texture

Is chicken salad actually healthy?

Yes, chicken salad can be healthy if made with lean chicken and lighter dressings. The protein from chicken supports muscle health, while vegetables and add-ins add nutrients. However, traditional versions with a lot of mayonnaise can be high in calories and fat. Healthier swaps like Greek yogurt or avocado make it more nutritious.

Can I lose weight if I eat chicken salad every day?

You may lose weight if chicken salad is part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet. Using lean chicken breast and lighter dressings helps keep it low in calories. However, eating the same thing every day may cause nutrient gaps, so it’s best to vary your meals while keeping chicken salad as a healthy option.

What goes well with chicken salad?

Chicken salad pairs well with:Fresh leafy greens or mixed saladsCrackers, croissants, or whole-grain breadSoups, especially tomato or vegetable soupFresh fruit like grapes, melon, or apple slicesLight sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa

La Madeleine Chicken Salad Recipe

Discover the delicious La Madeleine chicken salad recipe made with tender chicken, fresh celery, and creamy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful sandwich filling!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

2 cups chicken shredded chicken (boiled, baked, or rotisserie)– cooked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup celery chopped
2 tablespoons green onions chopped
1/4 cup almonds sliced
1/2 teaspoon Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
6 Croissants for serving, optional

Equipment

Cooking Spray
Parchment Paper, optional

Method

Shred the cooked i2 cups chicken into small pieces. You can boil, bake, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
In a large bowl, combine the 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice s1/2 teaspoon Salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Mix until smooth.
Add the shredded chicken, chopped 1/4 cup celery, g2 tablespoons green onions, and 1/4 cup almonds to the dressing. Stir everything together until well-coated.
Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on cr6 Croissants crackers, or a bed of lettuce.