Copycat Easy Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly Recipe

Last updated on January 13th, 2025 at 12:52 pm

This easy Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe featuring chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise has only 8 ingredients. and it requires around 15 minutes.

Spice up your homemade chicken salad with this Chicken Salad Chick jalapeno holly recipe. The star of this creamy salad is tender chicken tossed in a peppery, jalapeno-spiked mayonnaise dressing. Crisp apples, seedless grapes, and celery lend crunch and fresh contrast to the savory chicken base of this signature chicken salad chick jalapeno holly recipe.

Blending mayonnaise with jalapeno pepper juice infuses the dressing with addictive heat. We strike the right balance of cool and fiery in each scoop. Toasted almonds add a nutty texture while lemon juice and zest cut through the rich ingredients with bright acidity. This Chicken Salad Chick original is easy to recreate at home thanks to this simple chicken salad chick jalapeno holly recipe.

Whip up a batch to scoop over greens for a salad or spread between bread slices for unbeatable chicken salad sandwiches. This crowd-pleasing chicken salad chick jalapeno holly recipe is fit for a meal!

Invention and Transformation of Chicken Salad Chick 

As a small business, Chicken Salad Chick began its journey with a passion for delicious, homestyle chicken salad. Stacy Brown founded the restaurant in 2008 in Auburn, Alabama and it quickly became popular. Because its unique twist on a Southern classic drew more and more fans.

Brown’s vision was simple, he wanted a place for people to enjoy high-quality chicken salad which will have a variety of flavors to suit all tastes. The Jalapeno Holly was named after Stacy’s sister-in-law, Holly, who loved everything with a bit of heat. The jalapeno Holly was a spicy flavor and stands out among Chicken Salad Chick’s 12 chicken salad flavors.

Instantly it became a hit and is still one of the restaurant’s best-selling items today. Creamy mayo, tender chicken, and jalapeno heat give a bold twist to chicken salad. It’s a favorite for those who crave a bit of spice. 

Why Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly Recipe is Perfect for Meal Prep 

This Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno holly recipe is perfect for meal prep because It’s quick, delicious, and versatile. You can make a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a flavorful, protein-packed option for various meals. 

• Storage Tips: After preparing the chicken salad, replace the leftovers in an airtight container. Properly sealed, it can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This is an excellent option for busy weekdays.

Freezing Guidelines: Chicken salad is best when it’s freshly made. You can freeze portions for 3 months if needed. To avoid a watery texture when thawed, do not use fresh fruits and vegetables, like apples and celery. Add them when you serve the dish.

How to Make Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly

Our Easy and Quick Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe is a tantalizing fusion of flavors that brings together succulent chicken, spicy jalapeños, and the richness of Duke’s mayonnaise. Designed for those seeking a hassle-free yet delightful meal, this recipe promises to redefine your taste buds with every mouthful.

Ingredients

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins (yields approximately 2 cups of shredded chicken)
• ¾ cup Duke’s mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons sour cream
• ⅓ cup sliced pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1 pinch black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Boil and Shred with Precision

Fill a large pot with water, adding the chicken tenderloins. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid overcooking; aim for 165 degrees. Once ready, cool and use a hand mixer or food processor to shred the chicken into fine pieces.

2. Jalapeño Infusion

Process or dice the jalapeños finely. Add them, along with mayonnaise and seasonings, to the shredded chicken. Stir thoroughly for a restaurant-quality texture.

3. Serve and Savor

Dish out your Easy and Quick Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly and relish the explosion of flavors. Add more minced jalapeños for an extra kick if desired. Refrigerate any leftovers for an encore experience.

Additional Tips for Culinary Perfection

• Mayo Matters: For an authentic restaurant taste, opt for Duke’s mayonnaise. If unavailable, choose another full-fat mayonnaise for a similar richness.

• Chicken Choices: While chicken tenderloins deliver the closest taste, feel free to substitute with chicken breast or rotisserie chicken meat. However, tenderloins are recommended for an optimal flavor experience.

• Spice it Up: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more diced jalapeños. Since spice levels vary by brand, start with a conservative amount and gradually add more for the perfect kick.

Elevate your dining experience with this simple yet indulgent recipe that captures the essence of Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly. Let every bite be a celebration of culinary delight, enticing you to savor and indulge.

Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly Variations

This versatile dish allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences, making it a kitchen favorite. Looking to dial down the spice? Reduce or skip the jalapenos for a milder Jalapeno Holly, providing a more delicate flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative with substitutions. Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or tofu, opening the door to diverse culinary experiences. For those who enjoy a sweet and fiery kick, consider adding diced apples or grapes to the mix, elevating the flavor palette. Experiment with herbs, choosing from cilantro, basil, or mint as delightful alternatives to parsley.

Want a healthier twist? Replace mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream, offering a guilt-free option for your Jalapeno Holly. Or venture into different mayo flavors like jalapeno or garlic for an exciting taste exploration. With these variations, the Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly becomes your canvas for culinary innovation.

Alternative Summer Recipe: Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly

Step into the realm of our Great Fresh Summer Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe – an exquisite medley of succulent chicken, zesty jalapeños, and a burst of freshness that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Tailored for those who seek a delightful, hassle-free meal during the warmer months, this recipe is designed to invigorate your taste buds with every bite.

Ingredients:

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 2⁄3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1⁄2 medium celery rib, finely chopped
• 1⁄2 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1⁄2 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1⁄4 cup sliced pickled jalapeno chili, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Zesty Mayo-Lime Fusion: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and lime juice until a delightful fusion is achieved.
2. Fresh Toss of Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together shredded chicken, celery, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños.
3. Even Coating with Mayo Magic: Pour the mayo-lime mixture over the ingredients and toss until each element is evenly coated, creating a harmonious blend.
4. Seasoning for Summer Perfection: Season with salt and pepper to taste, embracing the essence of summer flavors.

Serving Suggestions for a Summer Feast:

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days, allowing the flavors to meld for an even more delightful experience. This Great Fresh Summer Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe is your ticket to a summer celebration on a plate, enticing you to relish every moment of culinary joy.

Alternative Recipe with Different Ingredients

Embark on a gastronomic journey with our Best of All Time Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe – a masterpiece that stands the test of time. Imagine succulent rotisserie chicken, blended with the creamy goodness of Hellmann’s mayo, and a symphony of flavors that create an unparalleled dining experience. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary legacy.

Ingredients:

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, cooked & all meat removed
• 1 cup Hellmann’s mayo
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1 small onion, minced
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional additions: walnuts, jalapeños, chopped cranberries, chopped grapes, almonds (add 1/4 cup if desired)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, shred the rotisserie chicken, and then add all other ingredients. Mix until a harmonious blend is achieved.

Once well combined, your Best of All Time Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly is ready to be savored! Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet dinner, indulge in the essence of a recipe that transcends time.

Creative Leftover Ideas 

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves, like romaine or butter lettuce, and scoop the salad into them. They make a low-carb, healthy, and crunchy wrap.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use as a filling in halved bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious meal. 
• Chicken Salad Quesadillas: Take two tortillas, and spread a generous layer of the chicken salad. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and then grill until golden and crispy. 
• Chicken Salad Melts: For a quick open-faced sandwich, pile the chicken salad on a toast. Then top with cheddar cheese and broil until melted. 
• Pasta Salad: Toss the salad with cooked pasta for a quick and creamy pasta salad variation. 

Healthier Version off the Chicken Salad Recipe 

To enjoy this jalapeno holly chicken salad with fewer calories, try these swaps and tips and they will keep the taste intact. 

• Greek Yogurt Swap: Substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt because it’s creamy and tangy like mayo. And it has more protein and fewer calories. 
• Low-Fat Mayonnaise: Opt for a low-fat or reduced-fat version of mayonnaise because it will cut the fat while keeping the rich texture. 
• More Veggies: Finley chop and add more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots. These not only add vibrant colors and nutrients but also create volume and crunch without any extra calories. 
• Skip the Sour Cream: If you’re using sour cream, try low-fat sour cream or use more Greek yogurt instead. 
• Boost Flavor with Herbs: It’s best to use fresh herbs, like cilantro, parsley, and chives because they add flavor without calories. Besides, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can also brighten up the salad, making it taste fresher and more vibrant. 
• Lean Protein Alternatives: For a healthy recipe, use poached chicken breast, not tenderloins. Or switch to shredded turkey breast, which is lower in fat. 

Tips for Customizing Spice Levels

This recipe is known for its signature spicy kick, but not everyone likes the same level of heat. Here are some tips on how to adjust the spice level to suit your personal preference: 

• Mild Version: For less heat, use fewer pickled jalapenos or use milder peppers like banana peppers. Before chopping the jalapenos, remove the seeds and membranes to reduce their spiciness. 
• Medium Heat: For this the original recipe will be enough. But you can still add a splash of pickle juice, or a few dashes of hot sauce, like Tabasco or Sriracha, for tanginess and mild spice. 
• Extra Spicy: If you want to amp up the heat, add fresh diced jalapenos along with the pickled ones. Or use hotter peppers like serrano or habanero. They come up with a serious punch, so proceed with caution. 
• Balancing the Spice: If you find the salad too spicy, balance it out with a touch of sweetness. Diced grapes, apples, or a spoonful of honey can counteract the heat and add a pleasant contrast. 

Some Kid-Friendly Adaptations

The Jalapeno Holly chicken salad is usually spicy, but with a few tweaks, you can make it kid-approved. 

• Skip or use very few jalapenos. Or, replace them with a small amount if finely diced sweet bell peppers. This way, you can maintain the crunch without adding any heat. 
• Diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries are perfect. They add sweetness and cut the richness of the mayonnaise. Kids often enjoy the contrast of sweet and savory flavors.
• Serve the chicken salad in fun, kid-friendly forms. Such as stuffed mini pita pockets, rolled wraps, or fun-shaped cracker toppings.
• Present the salad as a dip with a side of carrot sticks, celery, or pretzel sticks. Kids love interactive meals, and this can make eating chicken salad a fun experience. 

Things You Should Know Before Making Your Best Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly

1. Key Ingredients Matter: Prioritize quality rotisserie chicken and Hellmann’s mayo for a rich and flavorful base.
2. Balance is the Secret: Achieve the right blend of crunch with celery, sweetness with brown sugar, and a hint of herbs for a well-rounded taste.
3. Customize Your Way: Optional additions like walnuts, jalapeños, cranberries, grapes, or almonds allow you to tailor the recipe to your liking.

• Proven and Time-Tested: This recipe has stood the test of time, offering a reliable and delicious culinary experience.
• Simple Preparation, Big Flavor: Follow easy steps for shredding and mixing to create a dish that packs a punch without complicated preparation.
• Leftovers Welcome: Refrigerate any leftovers for a convenient and tasty meal the next day.
• Enjoy Culinary Excellence: This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a practical guide to crafting a delightful Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly. Enjoy the culinary journey!

Final Thoughts

In concluding our journey through the Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly recipe, it’s clear: this dish transcends the ordinary. Beyond its simplicity lies a symphony of flavors, blending succulent rotisserie chicken with the creamy richness of Hellmann’s mayo. 

This timeless recipe accommodates both tradition and experimentation, welcoming optional additions for a personalized touch. The Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly isn’t just a recipe; it’s a reliable companion in the kitchen, offering a quick and indulgent culinary experience. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, its ease of preparation and rich taste make it a staple for various occasions. So, as you embark on your culinary adventure, let this recipe be your guide to creating moments of flavorful delight that linger in the memory. Enjoy the journey and savor the delicious result.