Newks Chicken Salad

During a lunch meeting, I discovered Newk’s chicken salad when I noticed several people enjoying what looked like a perfect chicken salad. One curious order later, I was hooked by the incredible balance of tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and juicy grapes in a light and indulgent dressing. I bought an extra container to take home, which my family quickly devoured. After several trips back specifically for the chicken salad (and becoming known as “the chicken salad lady” to my coworkers, I decided to recreate it at home. This recipe captures what makes Newk’s version so irresistible—now I can enjoy it anytime without making the trip!

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Favorite Newk’s Salad

You understand the obsession if you’ve tried Newk’s famous chicken salad. If not, you’re about to discover your new favorite recipe. This copycat version captures everything that makes the original beloved—tender white chicken, crunchy pecans, juicy grapes, and perfectly seasoned creamy dressing. What sets it apart is the careful balance of textures and flavors, creating a chicken salad that’s versatile enough to enjoy as a sandwich filling, over greens, or straight from the bowl (we won’t judge!)

Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized skillet with lid
• Meat pounder or rolling pin
• Cutting board
• Plastic wrap
• Mixing bowls (2)
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Airtight storage container

Ingredients Breakdown

• Boneless chicken breasts or tenders – The foundation of the salad that provides lean protein and a neutral base that absorbs the flavors of the dressing
• Lemon juice – Adds brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the mayonnaise while enhancing the chicken’s flavor
• Pecans – Contribute a buttery crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the texture of the salad
• Red onion – Provides a sharp, pungent flavor contrast and beautiful purple color flecks throughout the salad
• Celery – Delivers essential crispness and a fresh, clean flavor that lightens the richness of the other ingredients
• Red seedless grapes – Add juicy bursts of sweetness and beautiful color that complement the savory elements
• Mayonnaise – Creates the creamy base of the dressing that binds all ingredients together while adding richness
• Seasoned salt – Contributes complex savory notes with herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor profile
• Salt and pepper – Basic seasonings that highlight and intensify the natural flavors of all other ingredients
• Sugar – Provides a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity and savory elements for perfect flavor harmony

How to cook chicken for chicken salad

For the best-tasting chicken salad, you must prevent the flavor of the chicken from getting lost among all the other ingredients. That means the method you use for cooking the chicken is essential.

Many recipes suggest that poaching is the best way of preparing chicken. While this method can help ensure the chicken stays moist, it tends to leave the meat soggy and tasteless. A better option is this unique (but simple) method that combines careful sauteing and steaming.

Start by removing the chicken from the fridge. While it is coming to room temperature, lay a sheet of cling wrap on a cutting board. Place the chicken on the cutting board and lay another sheet of cling wrap on top. Use a meat pounder or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken into a uniform thickness. Don’t hit too hard, or you will tear the meat and spray chicken juice all over your kitchen!

Heat a saute pan large enough to cook all the chicken in a single layer over medium-high heat. While the pan is heating up, season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. When the pan is hot, add enough olive oil to coat the bottom and place the chicken in the pan.

Cook for exactly one minute, turn the chicken over, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and set a timer for 10 minutes. When the timer beeps, turn off the stove, but leave the cover on the pan for another 10 minutes. When the time is up, remove the lid, and the chicken should be perfectly cooked without being dried out.

Let the chicken cool, then pop in the fridge for at least an hour before making the chicken salad. Once cooled, you can slice it into small strips and cut them into small pieces.

How to make Newks Chicken Salad

Here are the simple steps for preparing this copycat Newks chicken salad recipe:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine lemon juice, mayo, sugar, and spices (ground black pepper, salt, and seasoned salt) to make the dressing.
2. Place the chicken, pecans, onion, and celery in a separate bowl. Stir everything together.
3. Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir well to coat it all with the creamy dressing.
4. Cut the grapes in half or leave them whole. Gently fold in the whole or halved red grapes.
5. Place the salad in an air-tight container and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Creative Ways to Serve Newk’s Chicken Salad

Classic Serving Ideas:

• On a croissant or between slices of toasted multigrain bread for a traditional sandwich
• Scooped onto a bed of mixed greens for a light lunch
• Stuffed into a hollowed tomato or avocado half for an elegant presentation
• With butter crackers or crostini as an appetizer

Elevated Presentations:

• Chicken Salad Wrap: Roll in a flour tortilla with extra greens and a drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Stuffed Pita Pockets: Fill whole wheat pitas with chicken salad and sprouts
• Newk’s Chicken Salad Melt: Spread on bread, top with sliced cheese, and broil until bubbly
• Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups: Serve in crisp Boston or Bibb lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
• Pasta Salad Fusion: Mix with cooked, chilled pasta for a more substantial dish

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Properly stored, it will maintain optimal quality for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze chicken salad, as the mayonnaise will separate, and the vegetables will become mushy when thawed.

Best Practices for Freshness

• For food safety, never leave chicken salad at room temperature for over 2 hours (1 hour in hot weather).
• If making ahead for a party or gathering, separate the grapes and fold them just before serving to maintain their freshness.
• If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a small amount of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt and gently mix to refresh the texture.

Love chicken salad? Make these recipes!

• Deli Style Chicken Salad
• Chicken Salad Chick Chicken Salad
• Restaurant Chicken Salad Recipe

More salads with chicken

• Apple Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
• Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad
• Chicken Salad with Fruit Recipe
• Berry Chicken Salad
• BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad Recipe
• Panera Grilled Chicken Salad

Popular sandwiches

• Chick Fil A Chicken Sandwich Recipe
• Cheddar’s Monte Cristo
• Country Fried Steak Sandwich
• Panera Bread Panini Recipe

Find the best restaurant salad recipes and popular chicken recipes.

Scaling the Recipe

• For a smaller batch (3 servings): Use 1 pound of chicken and halve all other ingredients. The cooking method remains the same.
• For a larger crowd (12 servings): Double all ingredients and consider cooking the chicken in two batches to ensure even cooking.
• Make ahead option: This chicken salad actually improves after a day in the refrigerator as flavors meld, making it perfect for meal prep or preparing a day before a gathering.

Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Modifications

• Lighter Version: Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter salad with more protein.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the pecans to maintain crunch without nuts.
• Dairy-Free/Egg-Free: Use a vegan mayonnaise alternative if avoiding traditional mayo.
• Lower Carb: Omit the sugar and reduce the amount of grapes or replace with diced cucumber for crunch with fewer carbs.
• Herb Variations: Add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like dill, tarragon, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
• Fruit Alternatives: Substitute diced apples or dried cranberries for the grapes to create a different flavor profile.