Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe

I’m not gonna lie—when I first tried Newk’s chicken salad, I was hooked. There’s something about that perfect balance of tender chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and that creamy, tangy dressing that just hits all the right spots. 

It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from your favorite Southern auntie, but with a fresh twist that makes it perfect for any occasion. I’ve spent way too many lunch breaks at Newk’s, savoring every bite of their chicken salad, so I decided it was time to recreate it at home. 

After some trial and error (and a lot of taste-testing), I’ve nailed a version that’s as close as it gets to the real deal. This recipe is my love letter to that iconic salad, and I’m so excited to share it with you! 

Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a quick lunch, or just craving something delicious, this Newk’s-inspired chicken salad is about to become your new go-to.

Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe – Fresh & Flavorful

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Newk’s chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to whip up and endlessly versatile. It’s got that perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet, with a hint of tang that keeps you coming back for more. 

You can serve it on a bed of lettuce, stuff it in a sandwich, or scoop it with crackers for a quick snack. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for days. Here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
  • Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for lunches, potlucks, or even fancy brunches.
  • Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients.

Read Also: Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to recreate that signature Newk’s flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make this salad, just a few kitchen staples. Gather these items before you start:

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Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe – Best Copycat Version

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook and Prep the Chicken

Start with your chicken breast. If it’s not already cooked, you can poach, bake, or grill it. I like to poach mine because it stays super tender. 

To poach, place 2 medium chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). 

Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or chop it finely with a chef’s knife on a cutting board. 

You want small, bite-sized pieces for that classic chicken salad texture. Set the chicken aside in a large mixing bowl.

2. Toast the Pecans

Toasting the pecans brings out their nutty flavor, which is key to mimicking Newk’s vibe. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. 

Add 1/2 cup (60g) of pecans and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. 

Watch them closely—they burn fast! Once toasted, transfer them to a cutting board, let them cool for a minute, then roughly chop them with a chef’s knife. 

Add them to the bowl with the chicken.

3. Prep the Grapes and Onion

Grab 1 cup (150g) of red seedless grapes and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then slice each grape in half using a chef’s knife. This adds sweet bursts of flavor in every bite. 

Next, peel and finely dice 1/4 cup (40g) of red onion. You want tiny pieces so the onion adds a subtle kick without overpowering the salad. 

Add both the grapes and onion to the mixing bowl with the chicken and pecans.

4. Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, combine 1/2 cup (120g) mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60g) plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice, 1 teaspoon (5g) Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper. 

Whisk everything together with a spatula or fork until smooth. The Greek yogurt lightens up the dressing while keeping it creamy, and the lemon juice adds that signature tang. 

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—sometimes I add a splash more lemon for extra zing.

5. Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chicken, grapes, pecans, and onion in the large mixing bowl. 

Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the grapes—you want them to stay intact for that juicy pop. 

If you’re adding parsley for garnish, sprinkle 1 tablespoon (3g) of chopped parsley on top now or save it for serving.

6. Chill and Serve

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld together, making every bite even more delicious. 

When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and scoop it into bowls, onto lettuce leaves, or into sandwich bread.

Read Also: Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe

Tips for Success

Making this chicken salad is pretty straightforward, but a few tricks can take it to the next level. Here are my go-to tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time:

  • Use freshly cooked chicken for the best texture—rotisserie chicken works in a pinch but can be a bit soft.
  • Toast the pecans just before using to maximize their flavor.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Taste the dressing before mixing and adjust the lemon juice or salt to your liking.
  • Dice the onion super fine to avoid overpowering the salad.

Read Also: Chicken and Egg Salad Recipe

Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This Newk’s chicken salad is so versatile, you can serve it in tons of ways depending on your mood or the occasion. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or even a fancy brunch spread. Here are some ideas to make it shine:

Read Also: Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? This recipe is super adaptable. Here are some fun twists to keep things fresh:

Read Also: Chickpea Salad Recipe

Storage and Reheating

Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing can settle. 

If you want to prep it ahead, keep the dressing separate until a few hours before serving to maintain the crunch of the pecans and grapes. This salad doesn’t freeze well because the mayonnaise and yogurt can separate, so enjoy it fresh!

Read Also: Pasta House Salad Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 400mg

Read Also: Healthy Egg Salad Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This chicken salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that are good for you too. The combo of protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce makes it a nutritious choice for lunch or a snack. Here’s why the star players in this recipe are so great:

  • Chicken Breast: Lean protein that supports muscle growth and keeps you full.
  • Grapes: Rich in antioxidants like resveratrol, which promotes heart health.
  • Pecans: Loaded with healthy fats and vitamin E for brain and skin health.
  • Greek Yogurt: Provides probiotics for gut health and a creamy texture with less fat than mayo alone.
  • Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and adds a fresh zing.

Read Also: Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just remove the skin, shred the meat, and you’re good to go. It might be a bit softer than poached chicken, but it still tastes amazing.

2. How can I make this chicken salad healthier?

To lighten it up, use more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise, or opt for a low-fat mayo. You can also add more veggies like diced cucumber or carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.

3. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes! Simply skip the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.

4. How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?

It’ll stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir it well before serving to redistribute the dressing.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond-based yogurt. Just check the flavor to ensure it’s not too sweet.

Read Also: Healthy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Final Thoughts

This Newk’s chicken salad recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is so easy to make at home. I love how it comes together with just a handful of ingredients, yet tastes like something you’d order at a fancy café. The mix of creamy dressing, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans is pure magic, and it’s versatile enough to fit into any meal plan. 

I’ve made this for family lunches, potlucks, and even as a quick snack with crackers, and it’s always a hit. I hope you give it a try and love it as much as I do! 

Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you or any fun twists you add to make it your own.

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Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe – Classic Southern Flavor