Jason’s Deli Chicken Salad Recipe (Easy 6-Ingredient Copycat)

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones, and Jason’s Deli Chicken Salad proves this beautifully. While many chicken salad recipes require a long list of ingredients and complicated preparation, this beloved deli favorite achieves incredible flavor with just six simple components. The secret ingredient that sets it apart from ordinary chicken salad might surprise you, but once you taste it, you’ll understand why this recipe has such a devoted following.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why This Recipe Works

The genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the unexpected addition of crushed pineapple. While traditional chicken salads can be heavy and one-dimensional, the pineapple adds natural sweetness and acidity that brightens the entire dish. The almonds provide textural contrast without overwhelming the delicate chicken flavor, creating a perfectly balanced salad that’s both familiar and unique.

The Secret Ingredient That Changes Everything

Crushed pineapple might seem like an unusual addition to chicken salad, but it serves multiple purposes in this recipe. The natural enzymes in pineapple help tenderize the chicken while the fruit’s sweetness balances the richness of the mayonnaise. The small pieces are distributed evenly throughout the salad, ensuring every bite has that perfect hint of tropical flavor that makes Jason’s Deli version memorable.

How to Make Jason’s Deli Chicken Salad

Would you be surprised to know the secret ingredient in this recipe is crushed pineapple?  It’s surprisingly amazing and slightly sweet.  And the almonds give it the perfect crunch!

Ingredients

Protein Base:

• Cooked chicken breast – Provides lean protein foundation with a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and crunchy additions
• Mayonnaise – Creates creamy binding agent that holds all ingredients together while adding richness and moisture

Flavor Enhancers:

• Crushed pineapple – Adds natural sweetness, acidity, and moisture that transforms ordinary chicken salad into something special
• Sliced almonds – Contribute delicate crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully

Seasoning:

• Black pepper – Adds subtle heat and depth that rounds out the flavor profile
• Salt – Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness from the pineapple

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start with cooked chicken breast that has been cooled to room temperature for easier handling.
2. Shred chicken using two forks or your hands, creating bite-sized pieces that are neither too large nor too small.
3. Check for consistency – pieces should be roughly uniform for even distribution in the salad.

Creating the Base Mixture

4. Place shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl, spreading evenly for better mixing.
5. Add mayonnaise gradually, starting with slightly less than needed and adding more as required.
6. Mix gently to coat the chicken evenly without mashing or over-mixing.

Adding Special Ingredients

7. Drain pineapple if desired for a firmer texture, or leave undrained for more moisture (adjust mayo accordingly).
8. Fold in crushed pineapple gently to distribute evenly throughout the chicken mixture.
9. Add sliced almonds, reserving a few for garnish if desired.

Final Seasoning

10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, starting with small amounts and adjusting as needed.
11. Mix thoroughly but gently to combine all ingredients without breaking down the chicken texture.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning or mayo as preferred for personal taste.

Chilling and Setting

• Stir gently before serving to redistribute any settled ingredients.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
• Allow flavors to meld – the salad improves significantly after chilling time.

Notes

• If you do not want to drain your pineapple you don’t need to, but you will need to reduce the amount of mayonnaise by at least a tablespoon.
• Store the chicken salad in the refrigerator in a sealed container. It will last for about 2-3 days.
• If you are going to freeze the chicken salad, do not mix in the mayo until you are ready to eat.
• Chicken salad can be served hot or cold. This recipe is cold but you can use warm chicken for the salad.
• You can serve this chicken salad alone, with crackers, on a sandwich, or you could get fancy and stuff it inside of cream puff shells for a party.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Freezing: You can freeze chicken without mayonnaise for up to 3 months. Add mayonnaise and other ingredients after thawing for the best texture.
• Refrigerator Storage: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and food safety.
• Reheating Method: Serve chilled – this salad is not meant to be reheated. Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving if desired.

More Jason’s Deli Copycat Recipes

• Jason’s Deli Chicken Pot Pie Soup
• Jason’s Deli Fruit Dip

Great Salad Recipes

• Classic Carol Chicken Salad
• Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad Recipe
• Old Fashioned Chicken Salad
• Arby’s Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich
• Curry Chicken Salad
• Homemade Ham Salad
• Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
• Egg Salad
• Carrot Raisin Salad
• Fresh Broccoli Salad
• Lime Jello Salad with Cottage Cheese

Check out more of my easy salad recipes and the best fast food copycat recipes.

What’s your favorite way to eat chicken salad? Let us know in the comments below.

And remember to follow us on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM so you never miss a copycat recipe!