Each time I step into Costco, I am hit with an endless selection of culinary delights, but there’s one item that always catches my eye: the shredded chicken salad. I first discovered this treasure during a busy week when cooking was the last thing on my mind.
Now, I can’t help but rave about it. In this blog post, I’ll share everything you need to know about Costco shredded chicken salad—from its enticing ingredients to how to put your own spin on it!
What is Costco Shredded Chicken Salad?
Costco’s shredded chicken salad is a blend of tender, seasoned chicken mixed with crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I can tell you this salad isn’t just convenience; it’s a smart choice for meal prepping during busy weeks.
What sets it apart is its taste, texture, and versatility. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or hearty dinner, and it also pairs well with various side dishes.
The chicken is slow-cooked, shredded to perfection, and tossed with an assortment of vegetables, creating a delightful crunch in every bite. The dressing usually has a creamy base that ties together the flavors elegantly. But, the best part?
It’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home!
Why You’ll Love This Costco Shredded Chicken Salad
You’ll love this Costco shredded chicken salad because it’s easy to prep ahead, saving you time during busy weeks. It’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a nutrient-rich, healthy choice.
The salad is fully customizable, so you can add your favorite flavors and keep it exciting. Kids enjoy the mix of textures and tastes, making it a hit for all ages.
Plus, it’s perfect for entertaining or picnics—quick to make and sure to impress your guests with fresh, vibrant flavors.
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The Ingredients
Creating a tasty shredded chicken salad requires quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need:
- 1 ¼ cups of cream or milk
- ¾ cup of finely diced sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 carton (32 ounces) of rich chicken bone broth
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 ½ to 2 teaspoons of sea salt, adjust to taste
- 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast meat
- 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper or 2 teaspoons of Everything Bagel Seasoning
- 2 cups of finely chopped fresh celery stalks
Step by Step Instructions
Let’s break down how to make this lovely salad.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper. Set your slow cooker on low for about 6-7 hours. Trust me; this will leave your chicken juicy and tender.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once your cooking time is over, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. As you do this, let it cool. This little step ensures that you won’t burn your fingers!
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the diced onion, celery, and parsley. Mix them well; you want every piece to be coated with that delightful seasoning.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream or milk and the garlic powder. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of lemon juice for extra zing!
Gently pour this dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For best results, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to mingle. When you’re ready to serve, scoop it into bowls or on top of a bed of greens.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to elevate your shredded chicken salad:
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you’ve grilled chicken or have leftovers, use that to save time.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the salad on top of whole grain bread or tortillas for a satisfying sandwich.
- Add Crunchy Toppings: Consider tossing in some nuts or seeds for an added crunch!
- Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of paprika can add a unique kick.
- Keep it Fresh: Store your salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Costco Shredded Chicken Salad Nutrition Facts
Can I Store Costco Shredded Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
What can I Serve with Costco Shredded Chicken Salad?
This salad is versatile and can pair well with several accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: A simple baguette or rolls can complement the salad beautifully.
- Chips: Some tortilla chips on the side will add crunch.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast.
- Cole Slaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw pairs wonderfully with chicken.
- Pickles: A side of pickles brings a tang that makes the meal more exciting.
Variations
Feeling creative? Here are some variations you can try out:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta cheese, and swap out parsley for fresh dill. A touch of olive oil in the dressing will tie everything together.
- Tex-Mex Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced avocado. Use a yogurt-based ranch dressing for a creamy texture.
- Curry Flavor: Mix in some curry powder, raisins, and chopped apples. A light yogurt dressing works great here.
- Asian Inspiration: Toss in shredded carrots, edamame, and cilantro, adding soy sauce to the dressing for an umami punch.
- Italian Flair: Blend in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and pine nuts. A splash of balsamic vinegar can do wonders!
Conclusion
Costco shredded chicken salad is an engaging, nutritious meal option that saves time without compromising on flavor. You can easily customize it, whether you stick with the original recipe or venture out into new ingredients and variations.
The joy of cooking is in discovering what works for you, and believe me, this salad can be your starting point for experimenting while feeding yourself and your family healthily!
So, put on your chef’s hat, grab those ingredients, and enjoy making this delicious salad that’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Happy cooking!
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Costco Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
Costco’s shredded chicken salad is a blend of tender, seasoned chicken mixed with crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I can tell you this salad isn't just convenience; it’s a smart choice for meal prepping during busy weeks.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s break down how to make this lovely salad.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
-
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper. Set your slow cooker on low for about 6-7 hours. Trust me; this will leave your chicken juicy and tender.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
-
Once your cooking time is over, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. As you do this, let it cool. This little step ensures that you won’t burn your fingers!
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
-
In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the diced onion, celery, and parsley. Mix them well; you want every piece to be coated with that delightful seasoning.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream or milk and the garlic powder. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of lemon juice for extra zing!
-
Gently pour this dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
-
For best results, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to mingle. When you’re ready to serve, scoop it into bowls or on top of a bed of greens.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 431kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.6g18%
- Saturated Fat 2.1g11%
- Cholesterol 130mg44%
- Sodium 815mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 31g11%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 13g
- Protein 48g96%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some handy tips to elevate your shredded chicken salad:
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you’ve grilled chicken or have leftovers, use that to save time.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the salad on top of whole grain bread or tortillas for a satisfying sandwich.
- Add Crunchy Toppings: Consider tossing in some nuts or seeds for an added crunch!
- Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of paprika can add a unique kick.
Keep it Fresh: Store your salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
