Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe (Copycat) – Crunchy, Fresh & So Easy to Make
This Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is your go to guide for recreating the fast food favorite at home. With crunchy kale, tender cabbage, and a sweet apple cider vinaigrette, this copycat tastes just like the original and it’s ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side or a quick lunch, you’ll love this fresh and flavorful twist.
Chick Fil A Kale Salad Recipe (Copycat) – Crunchy, Fresh & So Easy to Make
Luna from Cook It Slowly
This Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful copycat version of the original kale crunch salad, made with kale, cabbage, almonds, and a sweet vinaigrette.
Wash and dry the kale. Remove the kale leaves from the stems and chop the leaves into bite sized pieces. Thinly slice the cabbage.
In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Place the kale in a large bowl and pour one or two tablespoons of the vinaigrette on top. Massage the dressing into the kale for 3-5 minutes. This will soften the leaves and make them more tender.
Add the cabbage and the rest of the vinaigrette to the bowl. Toss to combine everything well.
Sprinkle the almonds on top of the salad. Your Chick fil A inspired kale crunch salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
You can prep this salad in advance just store the dressing and almonds separately until you’re ready to eat. Substitute honey for maple syrup if preferred.
How to Make Chick Fil A’s Kale Crunch Salad at Home (Step by Step Guide)
Recreating the Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is surprisingly simple. Start by washing and drying a bunch of curly kale. Strip the leaves from the stems and chop them into bite sized pieces. Thinly slice two cups of green cabbage and set it aside.
Next, make the dressing by whisking together ⅓ cup olive oil, 2 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Season with salt and black pepper.
Massage a couple tablespoons of dressing into the kale for about 3–5 minutes to soften the leaves. Add cabbage and remaining dressing, toss well, and top with chopped roasted almonds.
Why This Kale Salad Tastes Just Like Chick-Fil-A’s (Secret
Ingredients Revealed)
The trick is in massaging the kale and using a tangy sweet vinaigrette. The apple cider vinegar and Dijon combo mirrors Chick fil A’s signature dressing. Toasted almonds add crunch, and the cabbage gives it a satisfying texture. The flavors build with each bite, just like the real deal.
What’s in Chick-Fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad? (
Ingredients + Flavor Guide)
Key
Ingredients in Chick-Fil- A’s Kale Salad (And Why They Work Together)
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Here’s what you’ll need for this Chick-Fil-A Kale Salad recipe:
Curly kale: bold flavor, nutrient dense, and perfect for massaging
Green cabbage: adds a sweet crunch and balances the bitterness
Roasted almonds: savory, salty, and rich in texture
Homemade vinaigrette: apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup
These simple ingredients combine into a crisp, craveable salad that’s wholesome and satisfying.
What Dressing Comes with Chick Fil A’s Kale Salad? (+ Easy Homemade Version)
Chick-fil-A uses a vinaigrette made from apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard with a light sweetness. Our version uses maple syrup (or honey) for a natural, pantry friendly substitute. According to Harvard Health, olive oil is rich in heart healthy fats, making this dressing both tasty and nutritious.
How to Customize Your Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe (Add-Ins, Swaps & Tips)
Easy Ways to Make This Kale Salad Your Own (Tasty Add-Ins & Variations)
This Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is endlessly versatile. Try these easy upgrades:
Add grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie for extra protein
Sprinkle in dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a fruity punch
Toss in feta, goat cheese, or parmesan for a creamy bite
Want it heartier? Add cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or farro
You can also swap maple syrup with honey or almonds with pecans based on your pantry.
How to Store Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe for Meal Prep (Stay Crisp Tips)
Make the salad up to 3 days in advance, but store the dressing separately if you want to keep it crisp. Kale holds up better than most greens, so it won’t wilt as quickly. Massage the kale when you’re ready to serve for best texture. Add almonds right before eating to keep them crunchy.
Chick Fil A Kale Salad Calories, Nutrition & Why It’s Surprisingly Healthy
How Many Calories Are in Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe ? (Per Serving Breakdown)
Each one cup serving of this Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe contains approximately:
157 calories
13g fat
9g carbs
4g fiber
4g protein
It’s a light, filling option compared to many fast food sides.
Why Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe Is a Smart Choice (Low Cal, High Flavor)
This salad brings together fiber rich kale and cabbage with healthy fats from olive oil and almonds. It’s low in sugar and free from processed ingredients. Plus, it fits vegetarian and gluten free lifestyles with ease.
Can You Meal Prep Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe for the Week?
Absolutely. This Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is ideal for weekly meal prep. Portion it into containers and store the dressing separately until ready to serve. For best results, add the almonds and toss with dressing just before eating.
What to Serve with Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe (Perfect Pairings)
Pair this salad with grilled chicken legs, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a bowl of comforting soup. It’s also a great side with casseroles or chicken sandwiches.
If you’re planning a full meal, try it with these easy recipes:
They use a light apple cider and Dijon vinaigrette that’s both tangy and slightly sweet.
What are the ingredients in Chick-fil-A’s kale crunch?
Kale, green cabbage, roasted almonds, and vinaigrette make up the base of the salad.
How many calories does the kale salad at Chick-fil-A have?
Around 150 calories per serving, depending on the portion of dressing used.
What does the kale crunch salad have in it?
The main ingredients are curly kale, green cabbage, almonds, and a vinaigrette style dressing.
This Chick Fil A Kale Salad recipe is quick, crave worthy, and perfect for anyone looking for a healthier take on a fast food favorite. With just a few fresh ingredients and a simple homemade vinaigrette, you can whip up a salad that’s crunchy, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying.
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