The Best Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe – Make It at Home!

Introduction to Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad has become a favorite among fast-food lovers looking for a healthy yet flavorful side dish. This simple yet delicious salad features a mix of kale and cabbage, tossed with a slightly sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette dressing, and topped with crunchy roasted almonds. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a go-to choice for those wanting a nutritious option without compromising on taste.

Making this salad at home allows you to customize the ingredients while keeping the essence of the original recipe. Whether you want to tweak the dressing’s sweetness, add protein, or make it completely dairy-free, this guide will walk you through every step.

What Is the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad?

The Kale Crunch Salad is a light and refreshing side dish that Chick-fil-A introduced as a healthier alternative to fries. It consists of a simple combination of curly kale and green cabbage, complemented by a signature maple vinaigrette dressing. The salad is topped with roasted almonds, which provide a satisfying crunch.

Unlike heavier salads loaded with cheese and creamy dressings, this one keeps things light while still packing a flavorful punch. The combination of earthy kale, slightly bitter cabbage, sweet dressing, and nutty almonds makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Why Is This Salad So Popular?

There are several reasons why the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad has gained popularity:

• Healthy and nutritious – Kale and cabbage are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Light yet satisfying – The salad is filling without being overly heavy, making it a great side or standalone dish.
• Perfect balance of flavors – The mix of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors makes it appealing to a wide range of taste preferences.
• Simple and customizable – It’s easy to recreate at home and modify based on dietary needs.

Health Benefits of Kale and Cabbage

Kale and cabbage are both considered superfoods due to their high nutrient content.

• Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune health, vision, and bone strength. It also contains fiber and antioxidants that promote heart health and digestion.
• Cabbage is packed with vitamin C and folate, making it a great addition to any diet. It has anti-inflammatory properties and aids in digestion.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Ingredients Breakdown

To recreate the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. This section will break down the essential components, suggest healthier substitutes, and provide tips on where to find the best ingredients for maximum flavor and freshness.

Key Ingredients Used in Chick-fil-A’s Kale Salad

The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad has a straightforward ingredient list that makes it easy to replicate at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Curly Kale – This dark leafy green provides a slightly bitter yet earthy base for the salad.
• Green Cabbage – Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the bitterness of kale.
• Roasted Almonds – Give the salad a nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
• Maple Vinaigrette Dressing – A blend of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and oil creates the sweet and tangy dressing.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances the flavors and adds a slight contrast to the sweetness of the dressing.

This simple combination creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a standout side dish.

Substitutes for a Healthier Version

While the original Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is already a healthy option, there are a few ways to modify it for specific dietary preferences:

• For a lower-carb version, swap maple syrup for a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit or stevia.
• For a nut-free version, replace almonds with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• To make it more filling, add grilled chicken, tofu, or quinoa for extra protein.
• To reduce bitterness, massage the kale with a little olive oil before assembling the salad.

These small changes can help cater the recipe to different dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Where to Buy the Best Ingredients

The quality of ingredients plays a major role in the final taste of the salad. Here are some tips on sourcing the freshest components:

• Kale and cabbage – Look for vibrant, firm leaves without yellowing or wilting. Farmers’ markets and organic sections in grocery stores often have the best options.
• Maple syrup – Choose 100% pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrups that contain corn syrup and artificial flavors.
• Roasted almonds – Buy unsalted roasted almonds or toast raw almonds at home for better control over sodium levels.
• Apple cider vinegar – Opt for raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar for added health benefits and a more robust flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad. This section will walk you through prepping the greens, mixing the salad base, and creating the signature maple vinaigrette dressing for that authentic taste.

How to Prep the Kale and Cabbage

Properly preparing the kale and cabbage is essential for the best texture and flavor. Follow these steps:

1. Wash the greens thoroughly – Rinse the kale and cabbage under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Pat dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner.
2. Remove tough kale stems – Strip the leaves from the thick stems and discard the stems. This helps eliminate any overly fibrous, bitter bites.
3. Chop into bite-sized pieces – Slice the kale into small pieces to make it easier to chew.
4. Massage the kale (optional) – If you prefer a softer texture, gently massage the chopped kale with a drizzle of olive oil for 1-2 minutes. This reduces bitterness and makes the leaves more tender.
5. Shred the cabbage – Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, finely shred the cabbage into thin strips.

Mixing the Perfect Salad Base

Once the kale and cabbage are prepped, it’s time to assemble the salad.

1. Combine the greens – In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped kale and shredded cabbage together.
2. Add roasted almonds – Sprinkle the roasted almonds over the greens for added crunch. You can leave them whole or chop them for smaller bites.
3. Toss everything together – Gently mix the ingredients to distribute them evenly.

At this stage, the salad base is ready. The next step is preparing the maple vinaigrette dressing that ties everything together.

Creating the Signature Dressing

The key to replicating Chick-fil-A’s kale salad is the slightly sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette dressing. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients for the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Steps to Make the Dressing:

1. Whisk all ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Adjust seasoning – Taste the dressing and add more maple syrup for sweetness or extra vinegar for more tang.
3. Shake it up – Alternatively, combine the ingredients in a mason jar, close the lid tightly, and shake until well mixed.

The Secret to Chick-fil-A’s Maple Vinaigrette Dressing

The maple vinaigrette is what makes the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad stand out. This dressing has the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of mustard for depth. Making it at home allows you to tweak the flavors to your liking while keeping it as close to the original as possible.

What Makes This Dressing Special?

The maple vinaigrette is a light yet flavorful dressing that enhances the natural taste of kale and cabbage. Here’s why it works so well:

• Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements the earthy bitterness of kale.
• Apple cider vinegar brings tanginess that balances the flavors.
• Dijon mustard adds a mild spice and acts as an emulsifier to keep the dressing smooth.
• Olive oil provides richness and helps the dressing coat the greens evenly.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Options

While store-bought dressings may seem convenient, making it at home gives you full control over the ingredients. Many bottled vinaigrettes contain artificial preservatives, added sugars, and unhealthy oils. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a fresher, healthier version.

If you prefer a pre-made option, look for a maple Dijon vinaigrette with minimal ingredients and no artificial additives. Brands like Primal Kitchen and Tessemae’s offer clean-label dressings that are close to the Chick-fil-A flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Dressing

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Whisk everything together – In a small bowl, whisk all the ingredients until well combined.
2. Adjust the taste – Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dressing or more vinegar for extra tanginess.
3. Blend for extra smoothness – If you want a thicker, creamier consistency, blend the dressing for 10-15 seconds.
4. Store properly – Keep the dressing in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.

Assembling and Serving the Kale Crunch Salad

Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Properly assembling the salad ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Combining the Ingredients for the Best Flavor

1. Toss the kale and cabbage – In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale and shredded cabbage. Make sure they are evenly mixed for a well-balanced bite.
2. Add the dressing – Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the greens. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
3. Massage the salad (optional) – Use clean hands or tongs to toss the salad, making sure the dressing coats the kale and cabbage. If you haven’t massaged the kale earlier, doing so now will soften the leaves and enhance the flavor.

How to Toast the Almonds for Extra Crunch

The roasted almonds add the signature crunch to this salad. If you’re using store-bought roasted almonds, you can skip this step. However, toasting raw almonds at home enhances their flavor.

1. Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the almonds and stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Toast for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and become fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to the salad.

Once cooled, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the salad for a nutty crunch.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Pairings

This salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• As a side dish – Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a sandwich for a balanced meal.
• As a main course – Add a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn it into a hearty meal.
• With a soup – Pair it with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup or tomato basil soup for a comforting meal.

For the best taste, serve the salad fresh. If making it ahead of time, store the dressing separately and toss it in just before eating to maintain the crunch.

Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Variations and Add-Ons

One of the best things about the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to add more protein, make it dairy-free, or adjust it for a low-carb diet, there are plenty of ways to modify the recipe while keeping its signature flavors intact.

Adding Grilled Chicken for Protein

For a heartier meal, adding grilled chicken is a great way to boost protein while keeping the dish light and nutritious.

How to prepare grilled chicken for this salad:

1. Season the chicken – Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
2. Grill the chicken – Cook on a preheated grill or stovetop pan for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
3. Slice and serve – Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. Add it on top of the salad before serving.

This protein-packed version makes the salad a complete meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Making It Vegan or Dairy-Free

The original Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is already dairy-free, but if you want to make it fully vegan, here are a few simple swaps:

• Replace honey or maple syrup with agave nectar in the dressing for a completely plant-based option.
• Use roasted sunflower seeds instead of almonds if you prefer a nut-free variation.
• Add plant-based protein like chickpeas, tempeh, or tofu to make it more filling.

These substitutions keep the salad flavorful while making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Adjustments

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, slight modifications can make this salad more suitable.

• Use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative or omit sweeteners altogether in the dressing.
• Increase the healthy fats by adding avocado slices or extra olive oil.
• Skip the cabbage if you’re aiming for a strict low-carb version and use only kale.

With these small adjustments, you can enjoy a keto-friendly Chick-fil-A Kale Salad without compromising on taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Kale Salad

Even though the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect its flavor and texture. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your salad turns out fresh, flavorful, and as close to the original as possible.

Why Your Kale Salad Might Be Too Bitter

Kale is naturally bitter, but there are ways to reduce its intensity. If your salad tastes too bitter, consider these tips:

• Massage the kale – Rubbing the leaves with a bit of olive oil and salt for 1-2 minutes softens them and removes bitterness.
• Use baby kale – It has a milder flavor compared to mature kale.
• Balance flavors with the dressing – The sweetness from the maple vinaigrette helps counteract the bitterness.

How to Keep the Salad from Getting Soggy

A great kale salad should be crisp and fresh, not limp or watery. Here’s how to prevent sogginess:

• Keep the dressing separate until serving – If storing the salad for later, don’t mix in the dressing until just before eating.
• Use a salad spinner – After washing the kale and cabbage, dry them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
• Toast the almonds properly – If they absorb too much moisture, they can lose their crunch. Store them separately and add them right before serving.

Perfecting the Dressing-to-Salad Ratio

Too much dressing can overpower the greens, while too little can make the salad dry. Here’s how to get the right balance:

• Start with a small amount – Add half the dressing first, toss, then gradually add more if needed.
• Use tongs to mix – This ensures the dressing coats every bite evenly.
• Taste as you go – Adjust the flavors by adding more dressing, a pinch of salt, or a squeeze of lemon if needed.

For more inspirations, Check out my delicious dishes.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Kale Salad

Proper storage and meal prep can help keep your Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad fresh for days. Since kale is a sturdy green, it holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to store and prep it the right way.

How to Store Leftover Kale Salad

If you have leftovers, follow these steps to maintain freshness:

• Store the salad and dressing separately – This prevents the kale from becoming too soggy. Keep the greens in an airtight container and the dressing in a small jar.
• Use a paper towel to absorb moisture – Placing a dry paper towel in the container with the kale and cabbage helps absorb excess moisture, keeping the greens crisp.
• Keep it refrigerated – Store the salad in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

How Long Will Dressed Kale Salad Last?

Kale is sturdier than other salad greens, but once it’s dressed, it will start to soften. If you’ve already mixed the dressing into the salad:

• It will stay fresh for about 24 hours in the fridge.
• After that, the texture may become too wilted, but it’s still safe to eat.

For best results, only dress the portion you plan to eat and keep the rest stored separately.

Best Containers for Keeping It Fresh

Using the right containers can help extend the salad’s shelf life. Here are some good options:

• Glass containers with airtight lids – These keep the salad fresh and prevent odors from absorbing.
• Mason jars for meal prep – Layer the dressing at the bottom, followed by cabbage, kale, and almonds on top to keep everything crisp.
• BPA-free plastic containers – Lightweight and great for on-the-go meals.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy a fresh and delicious Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad anytime.

FAQs About Chick-fil-A Kale Salad

To help clarify any questions you might have about this delicious salad, here are answers to some of the most common inquiries.

What does Chick-fil-A put in their kale salad?

Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad includes curly kale, green cabbage, roasted almonds, and a maple vinaigrette dressing. The dressing is a simple mix of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard, which gives it a tangy yet slightly sweet flavor.

What does kale crunch salad taste like?

The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad has a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The kale and cabbage provide an earthy, slightly bitter taste, which is complemented by the sweetness of the maple vinaigrette. The roasted almonds add a crunchy, nutty finish, making each bite satisfying.

Will kale salad get soggy?

Kale is sturdier than most leafy greens, so it doesn’t get soggy as quickly as romaine or iceberg lettuce. However, if the salad is dressed too far in advance, the kale will soften over time. To keep it fresh, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

Does the kale crunch salad come with dressing?

Yes, the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad comes pre-mixed with maple vinaigrette dressing. When making it at home, you can control the amount of dressing or adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

How long will a dressed kale salad last?

A dressed kale salad will stay fresh for about 24 hours in the refrigerator. After that, the leaves may become too wilted. If you plan to store it longer, keep the dressing separate and mix it just before eating.

Is Chick-fil-A kale salad dairy-free?

Yes, the Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is completely dairy-free. It contains no cheese, milk, or dairy-based dressing, making it a great option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy-free diets.

Conclusion

The Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad is a simple, healthy, and delicious dish that’s easy to make at home. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can recreate this fan-favorite salad while customizing it to your liking. Whether you prefer adding grilled chicken, making it vegan, or prepping it ahead for easy meals, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.

Give it a try and enjoy a homemade version of Chick-fil-A’s Kale Crunch Salad anytime!