We’ve fallen in love with the bold flavors of Chicken Salad Chick’s Jalapeno Holly, a spicy twist on classic chicken salad that packs a punch with fresh jalapenos and creamy goodness. It’s perfect for those days when you crave something zesty yet comforting, drawing from the popular chain’s Southern-inspired roots.
In our kitchen we’ve recreated this fan-favorite to make it easy for you to enjoy at home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or prepping a quick meal our take on Jalapeno Holly promises authentic taste that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
Building on the Southern charm and fresh flavors we’ve highlighted in our Jalapeno Holly chicken salad, we now share the key ingredients that bring this spicy, creamy delight to life. These components, selected for their authentic taste and texture, ensure you recreate a dish that’s as vibrant and irresistible as the original.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced for easy mixing, providing the hearty base that absorbs the spicy flavors.
- 1/2 cup fresh jalapenos, finely chopped (remove seeds for milder heat), delivering the signature kick that makes this salad stand out.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, full-fat for creaminess, which binds the ingredients into a smooth, luscious texture we love.
- 1/4 cup celery, diced for a crisp crunch, added next to enhance the fresh, vegetal notes.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped for a subtle sharpness, helping to balance the heat with its tangy bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, squeezed just before mixing to brighten the flavors and add a zesty acidity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for a quick infusion of savory depth that elevates the overall taste without overwhelming.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste, seasoned at the end for precise control of the dish’s bold profile.
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, stirred in for an extra layer of herbaceous freshness if you want to amp up the authenticity.
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Jalapeno Holly chicken salad with precision and ease, we recommend gathering these essential tools. Each item helps us handle the chopping, measuring, and mixing involved in creating this spicy, creamy delight.
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely chopping fresh jalapenos, celery, and red onion to achieve the perfect texture.
- Sharp knife: Ideal for finely dicing ingredients; we suggest a chef’s knife to ensure clean cuts that enhance the dish’s fresh crunch.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate portions—use a set that includes 1-cup and 1/4-cup measures along with teaspoons for ingredients like lime juice and garlic powder.
- Large mixing bowl: A 2- to 4-quart bowl for combining all elements, allowing us to blend the creamy mayonnaise with the spicy flavors effortlessly.
- Spoon or spatula: A silicone spatula works best for gentle stirring to maintain the salad’s smooth consistency without over-mashing the chicken.
- Optional: Food processor: If we’re short on time, this tool can quickly pulse ingredients for a uniform chop, though hand-cutting preserves more of the fresh jalapenos’ vibrant heat.
With these tools in hand, we’re ready to move forward and assemble our flavorful chicken salad.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our zesty Jalapeno Holly chicken salad with simple, precise steps that deliver authentic Southern flavor and a perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we ensure all components are prepped for optimal texture and taste. Start by dicing 2 cups of cooked chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces to maintain a tender feel that absorbs the spicy notes.
Next, finely chop 1/2 cup of fresh jalapenos—remove the seeds if you prefer milder heat—to release their vibrant, fiery essence that makes Jalapeno Holly stand out.
Then, dice 1/4 cup of celery and 1/4 cup of red onion for a crisp, refreshing crunch that contrasts the creaminess.
Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice to add a zesty tang, and measure out 1 teaspoon of garlic powder along with salt and black pepper to taste for seasoning.
If using, chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro to infuse an optional burst of herbal freshness that elevates the dish’s aroma.
Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, we combine the prepped ingredients to create a harmonious blend. Add the 2 cups of diced chicken breast, 1/2 cup of finely chopped jalapenos, 1/4 cup of diced celery, and 1/4 cup of diced red onion.
Stir in 1/2 cup of full-fat mayonnaise to coat everything in a rich, creamy base that binds the flavors together.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, the fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper, then gently fold all elements with a spoon or spatula until evenly mixed—aim for a smooth consistency with visible flecks of green for visual appeal and a tantalizing spicy kick.
If desired, incorporate the 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro at this stage to enhance the fresh, herbaceous notes that make each bite irresistibly aromatic.
Chill and Serve
Transfer the mixed salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor infusion—to let the spicy and creamy elements meld, resulting in a chilled, refreshing dish with a satisfying crunch and lingering heat.
When ready to serve, portion the salad onto plates or into sandwiches, garnishing with extra cilantro if available, to enjoy its bold, invigorating taste that pairs perfectly with crackers or fresh bread for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Jalapeno Holly chicken salad is its flexibility for advance preparation, allowing the spicy and creamy flavors to meld into a more vibrant, harmonious blend. We recommend making this salad ahead to enhance its bold kick from fresh jalapenos and ensure it’s ready for quick meals or gatherings.
Preparing in Advance
To get started, follow these steps after assembling the salad as outlined in our previous instructions:
- Mix and Chill Immediately: After combining the cooked chicken, chopped jalapenos, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, stir everything gently until well incorporated. This ensures the spicy heat from the jalapenos infuses the creamy base, creating a tantalizing contrast of textures.
- Transfer to Storage: Spoon the salad into an airtight container. We suggest using a glass or plastic container with a tight lid to preserve the fresh, zesty aroma and prevent any moisture loss that could dull the crunch of celery and onion.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Place the container in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for optimal flavor development. During this time, the lime juice brightens the overall taste, while the garlic powder deepens the savory notes, making each bite even more irresistible.
Storage Guidelines
For longer make-ahead options, proper storage is key to maintaining the salad’s fresh appeal. Below is a quick reference table for storage durations and tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store at 40°F (4°C) or below; stir before serving to redistribute creamy elements and ensure even spice distribution. |
| Freezer | Not recommended | Freezing can alter the texture of mayonnaise and fresh veggies, leading to a less appealing consistency; we advise against it for Jalapeno Holly. |
Tips for Serving After Making Ahead
When you’re ready to serve, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a quick stir to refresh the vibrant flavors. If it seems dry, add a splash of fresh lime juice to revive the zing. Serve chilled on its own, tucked into sandwiches, or paired with crackers for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that highlights the authentic Southern-inspired taste of Chicken Salad Chick’s Jalapeno Holly. Always taste and adjust seasoning just before serving to keep the dish at its peak.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on the Jalapeno Holly recipe from Chicken Salad Chick
It’s a simple way to add bold flavors to your meals that keep everyone coming back
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our kitchen
Enjoy the fresh kick and make it your own flavorful tradition
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Salad Chick’s Jalapeno Holly?
Chicken Salad Chick’s Jalapeno Holly is a spicy twist on traditional chicken salad, featuring fresh jalapenos for a kick, combined with creamy mayonnaise and Southern-inspired flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings or quick meals, offering an authentic taste that can be recreated at home for easy enjoyment.
What ingredients are needed for Jalapeno Holly chicken salad?
You’ll need 2 cups cooked chicken breast, 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapenos, 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise, 1/4 cup each of diced celery and red onion, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
How do I prepare Jalapeno Holly chicken salad?
Dice cooked chicken, chop jalapenos (remove seeds for milder heat), and dice celery and onion. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl with mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then chill for at least an hour to blend flavors. Serve on bread, crackers, or as a side for a tasty meal.
Can I make Jalapeno Holly chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the salad in advance by mixing ingredients and chilling immediately in an airtight container. This allows flavors to develop fully. Refrigerate for up to three days; avoid freezing as it may affect texture. Before serving, stir and add a splash of lime juice if needed to refresh.
How should I store and serve Jalapeno Holly chicken salad?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, let it chill for at least an hour after making to enhance flavors. Serve cold on its own, in sandwiches, or with crackers. If prepared ahead, give it a quick stir and add lime juice for a fresh taste.