Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe

This Chick-fil-A Kale Salad is a fresh, crunchy combination of tender kale, crisp cabbage, and sweet dried cherries tossed with a creamy, tangy dressing. Toasted nuts add a satisfying crunch.

It’s an easy salad to serve alongside grilled chicken, sandwiches, or your favorite weeknight meal. With its mix of fresh vegetables, chewy fruit, and crunchy toppings, it’s a simple homemade version of a popular restaurant favorite.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

• Fresh & Crunchy: Kale and cabbage give the salad plenty of crisp texture.
• Sweet & Tangy: Dried cherries add sweetness while the dressing brings a bright tang.
• Creamy Dressing: The smooth dressing ties all the ingredients together.
• Great Texture: Toasted nuts add a satisfying crunch to every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: Most of the ingredients can be prepped ahead for quick assembly.
• Versatile Side: Pair it with grilled chicken, sandwiches, wraps, or your favorite main dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Kale: Use baby kale, spinach, or finely chopped romaine for a milder flavor.
2. Green Cabbage: Red cabbage or a bagged coleslaw mix works well.
3. Dried Cherries: Substitute dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots.
4. Nuts: Use pecans, walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
5. Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt can replace part or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar: White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used for a similar tangy flavor.
7. Honey: Maple syrup works well as an alternative sweetener in the dressing.

I’ve been obsessed with the Chick-fil-A kale salad, and this recipe nails it! The kale and cabbage are perfectly balanced, and that sweet vinaigrette brings it all together. Tastes just like the real thing—maybe even better. Made it for lunch and already planning to make it again tomorrow!

— Lindsey Harper, South Carolina

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe

This refreshing Chick-fil-A-inspired kale salad features tender kale massaged with olive oil and lemon, combined with crisp green cabbage. A sweet and tangy Dijon vinaigrette ties it all together, while roasted almonds add a satisfying crunch. It’s a nourishing, restaurant-style side you’ll crave daily.

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 388 kcal

Equipment

• Salad spinner or colander
• Paper towels
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Medium-sized bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or mason jar
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

  

Apple Cider and Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette

• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp fresh lemon
• 2 tbsp honey, blue agave or maple syrup
• ¼ tsp salt

Salad

• 1 cup green cabbage shredded
• 4 cups curly kale chopped
• ¼ cup roasted almonds

Instructions

 

• Rinse the kale and cabbage thoroughly, then dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels.
  
• Chop the curly kale into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl along with the shredded green cabbage.
  
• In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, honey, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  
• Pour the vinaigrette over the kale and cabbage mixture.
  
• Massage the dressing into the kale for 1–2 minutes to soften the leaves and evenly coat the salad.
  
• Sprinkle the roasted almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.
  
• Serve fresh as a light side salad or healthy lunch option.
  

Notes

• Use baby kale for a milder flavor and softer texture if you prefer less bitterness.
• Massaging the kale helps reduce its natural toughness and makes it easier to digest.
• Toasting almonds before adding enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.

Nutrition Information

Try More Salad Recipes Like This!

• Mexican Corn recipe
• Apple Crumb Pie
• Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Roasted Eggplant Recipe
• Breakfast Potatoes Recipe

Easy Flavor Twists to Try

• Add Grilled Chicken: Make it more filling with sliced grilled chicken.
• Try Fresh Fruit: Add diced apples, pears, or grapes for extra sweetness.
• Switch the Nuts: Use toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy touch.
• Make It Sweeter: Add a little extra honey or dried fruit to the dressing.
• Add Some Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the dressing.

FAQ’S

1. Does the kale taste bitter in this salad?
   The dressing and massage step help soften the kale and mellow its stronger flavor.
2. Can I serve this salad for lunch?
   Yes, it works well as a light lunch, especially with added protein.
3. Is this salad similar to the Chick-fil-A version?
   It has a very similar mix of kale, cabbage, crunchy almonds, and sweet Dijon dressing.
4. How long should I massage the kale?
   About 1 to 2 minutes is usually enough to soften the leaves.
5. Can I make the dressing in advance?
   Yes, the vinaigrette can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for several days.
6. What makes this salad crunchy?
   The cabbage and roasted almonds add most of the crunch and texture.