Craving that colorful, flavor-packed Chick Fil A Market Salad without making a trip to the drive-thru? You’re in the right place. This copycat Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is fresh, filling, and shockingly easy to make at home. We’re talking juicy grilled chicken, a medley of greens, tangy blue cheese, crispy roasted nuts, and sweet fruits — all tied together with a homemade apple cider vinaigrette. The best part? It’s completely customizable to your taste and dietary needs.
Whether you’re trying to eat clean, meal prep for the week, or just want something that actually makes salad exciting, this one’s a keeper. Plus, you’ll skip the additives and make it from scratch using real, whole-food ingredients. Let’s bring that fast-food favorite into your kitchen — no long lines, just good food.
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Why You’ll Love This Chick Fil A Market Salad Recipe
There are a million salad recipes out there, but the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe hits different. It’s got that perfect sweet-savory balance: crunchy greens, juicy apples and berries, flavorful chicken, and a tangy vinaigrette that ties everything together. It doesn’t feel like you’re eating a “healthy” meal — it just tastes good.
Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this one:
- Meal prep friendly: It stays fresh for days.
- No alcohol, no pork: Clean and family-friendly.
- Flexible ingredients: Sub in what you’ve got on hand.
- Great for all diets: Gluten-free? Keto? High-protein? You’re covered.
It also pairs amazingly well with other protein-packed dishes, like this grilled chicken wrap recipe or low sodium chicken recipes if you’re watching your salt.
What Makes the Chick Fil A Market Salad So Popular?
Fast food salads usually get a bad rap, but the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe breaks the mold. What sets it apart? It’s all about layered texture and real ingredients. The grilled chicken is lightly seasoned but packed with flavor. The greens are crisp, not soggy. The apple cider vinaigrette isn’t overly sweet or heavy, and the fruits give it that refreshing contrast.
It feels indulgent, but it’s actually balanced and nutritious — a rare find in the grab-and-go world. That’s why this salad has a cult following, and why making your own version at home is totally worth the effort.
Need a little variety? Pair it with a hearty dish like this best chicken chop recipe or keep it light with chicken breakfast recipes that complement its freshness.
Ingredients for a Homemade Chick Fil A Market Salad
Let’s break down everything you’ll need to recreate this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe at home. Don’t stress — most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen or easy to find at your local store.
Fresh Salad Base Ingredients
Here’s the foundation of your salad — a mix of crunchy, fresh greens:
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
- ½ cup carrots, shredded
This combo gives the salad structure and color — just like the original. Feel free to swap in mixed greens or kale if that’s your thing.
Fruit Toppings You’ll Need
The fruit is what gives the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe its signature sweet-tangy kick:
- ½ green apple, thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh blueberries
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened preferred)
These fruits not only boost flavor but also pack antioxidants. And if you’re prepping for the week, store them separately to keep your salad crisp.
Protein Choices (Chicken Options)
Traditionally, it’s grilled chicken — simple, tender, flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 chicken breast, grilled and sliced (seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of smoked paprika)
Or, if you’re switching it up, try chicken from this hot honey chicken tenders recipe (minus the glaze) for a spicy-sweet twist.
Crumbled Blue Cheese and Nut Toppings
These two ingredients are optional but highly recommended:
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons roasted nuts (almonds or pecans work best)
They add richness and crunch — balancing the sweet fruit and tart dressing. Just skip the cheese if you’re dairy-free.
The Signature Chick Fil A Market Salad Dressing
The apple cider vinaigrette is honestly the unsung hero of this whole Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe. It’s tangy, lightly sweet, and brings the entire bowl of flavors together without overpowering the ingredients. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or store-bought sauces. We’re going to make it from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients you can pronounce.
Ingredients for the Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Here’s what you’ll need for the vinaigrette that makes this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe taste restaurant-quality:
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup if vegan)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
This dressing is light but flavorful, and it stores well in the fridge for up to a week. Shake it up in a mason jar, and you’ve got your new favorite go-to salad topper.
How to Make the Dressing from Scratch
Making this vinaigrette is a breeze — you’ll wonder why you ever bought bottled salad dressing.
- Whisk together the base: In a small bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Slowly add the oil: While whisking, drizzle in the olive oil to help the dressing emulsify.
- Season to taste: Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a final whisk or shake, and that’s it!
Want to give it a unique spin? Try swapping honey with agave for a slightly different sweetness or add a splash of orange juice for a fruitier note. If you’re looking for even more salad-friendly flavors, this best Hellmann’s chicken salad recipe uses a creamy twist that you can borrow inspiration from.
Step-by-Step: Chick Fil A Market Salad Recipe
Now that all your ingredients are ready and the dressing is done, it’s time to assemble this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe like a pro. Here’s how to do it from start to finish.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Grilling the chicken gives it that classic charred flavor Chick Fil A is known for — but without the fast-food mystery seasoning.
- Marinate (optional): Toss your chicken breast in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Grill it up: Cook the chicken on a grill pan or outdoor grill for 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through and juicy.
- Slice it thin: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
Need a flavorful marinade idea? Check out this Longhorn Steakhouse chicken recipe — the seasoning works great here too!
Step 2: Wash and Chop Your Greens and Fruits
Freshness is key in any Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe, so make sure your produce is crisp and clean.
- Rinse and dry your greens thoroughly (nobody wants a soggy salad).
- Thinly slice apples and strawberries.
- Toss blueberries, cranberries, and other fruit gently to avoid bruising.
Step 3: Assemble and Drizzle
Now for the fun part — bringing it all together.
- Start with your greens in a big salad bowl or individual plates.
- Layer on the fruits: apples, strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries.
- Add your sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Sprinkle on blue cheese crumbles and roasted nuts.
- Drizzle generously with your homemade apple cider vinaigrette.
And boom — your fresh, balanced, flavor-packed Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is ready to enjoy.
Looking for more chicken-based lunch ideas? You might also love this buffalo chicken flatbread recipe — it’s a bold alternative to your salad days.
Chick Fil A Market Salad Recipe Variations
One of the best things about the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you’re looking to make it vegan, keto, low-calorie, or just want to switch up your weekly salad routine, there’s a version that works for you. Let’s talk variations that still deliver on flavor, crunch, and satisfaction.
Vegetarian or Vegan Version
No chicken? No problem. You can still enjoy this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe without animal products and still keep all the texture and flavor.
Swap ideas:
- Use grilled tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh as your protein.
- Omit blue cheese or sub with vegan cheese crumbles.
- Replace honey in the vinaigrette with agave or maple syrup.
You’ll still get that sweet-savory combo that makes this salad a winner. Pair it with a plant-based main like something from this ground chicken and potato recipes list (just swap the chicken for a vegan option).
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Twist
Yes — you can totally keto-fy the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe without losing what makes it amazing. You just have to be smart about the fruits and dressing.
Keto-friendly adjustments:
- Reduce or skip the apples and dried cranberries (they’re higher in sugar).
- Use raspberries or blackberries instead of strawberries/blueberries.
- Add extra grilled chicken or avocado for healthy fats.
- Stick to a low-carb vinaigrette (you can leave out the honey entirely or use a keto sweetener).
Want more keto chicken inspo? You’ll love these carnivore diet chicken recipes — they’re super simple and low in carbs.
Different Proteins: Grilled Shrimp, Tofu, or Turkey
You’re not locked into grilled chicken. The base of the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe works beautifully with all kinds of proteins. Here are some fun upgrades:
- Grilled shrimp: Adds a coastal vibe and pairs great with apple cider vinaigrette.
- Crispy tofu: Soaks up the dressing and gives a nice contrast.
- Shredded turkey: A leaner option, especially post-holiday leftovers.
Mix and match to suit your mood. The idea is to keep the variety while staying close to that sweet-savory blueprint.
Looking to bulk up the salad into a full meal? Serve it alongside this creamy bertolli chicken alfredo recipe to balance fresh and hearty.
Tips for the Best Chick Fil A Market Salad at Home
Want to take your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe from good to unforgettable? These little tips make a huge difference.
- Season your protein well – Bland chicken = bland salad. Even a quick spice rub elevates the dish.
- Don’t overdress the salad – Toss lightly or drizzle after serving so the greens stay crisp.
- Layer ingredients with intention – Start with greens, then fruit, then protein and toppings.
- Toast your nuts – Roasting enhances flavor and crunch. Just 5 minutes in the pan is all it takes.
- Keep textures in mind – A balance of crunchy, creamy, and juicy ingredients makes it more satisfying.
And pro tip: If you’re planning to meal prep, store the components separately and assemble just before eating. That keeps everything fresh and avoids soggy greens.
Want more unique takes on chicken dishes? Try a fusion-style meal like this flavorful ground chicken pasta recipe that’s easy to batch-cook and perfect for dinner rotation.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
Good news: the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is actually meal-prep friendly — as long as you know how to store each part right. Here’s how to keep everything tasting fresh all week long.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Pre-cook your protein: Grill and slice the chicken ahead of time, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Chop and wash greens: Do this in advance and dry them well. Store with a paper towel in a sealed container to absorb extra moisture.
- Keep fruit separate: Especially apples and strawberries — these can get mushy fast if mixed too early.
- Make the dressing: Store in a jar and shake before serving. It keeps well in the fridge for 5–7 days.
This way, all you have to do is assemble your salad when you’re ready to eat. It’s faster than takeout and way healthier.
Looking for more prep-friendly recipes? You’ll find some great ones in this roundup of bariatric chicken recipes — light, protein-rich, and easy to prep ahead.
Storage Guidelines:
To keep your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe components fresh:
- Store greens in a salad spinner or container lined with a paper towel.
- Chicken should be cooled before storing to avoid steam-softening the salad.
- Dressing should be kept in a sealed jar and not poured on until serving.
- Fruits should be sliced right before serving when possible.
Assembled salads (with dressing on the side) will last up to 2 days in the fridge. Fully dressed salads should be eaten immediately or within a few hours.
Reheating the Chicken:
If you’ve stored your grilled chicken in the fridge:
- Reheat it briefly in a skillet or microwave (just 30 seconds).
- Avoid overcooking — you just want it warm, not dry.
Alternatively, eat it cold — the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe tastes great chilled!
What to Serve with Chick Fil A Market Salad
This salad is pretty filling on its own, but if you want to turn it into a full meal, here are some fun pairings:
- Soup: A light broth-based soup like chicken and veggie or miso pairs well.
- Flatbread or wrap: Serve a slice of buffalo chicken flatbread or this grilled chicken wrap for a heartier lunch.
- Fruit smoothies or fresh juices: Complements the fruity toppings and keeps the meal light.
- Whole grain bread or crackers: Adds a nice carb to balance the protein and fiber.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe can flop if you overlook a few key things. Avoid these salad sins:
- Overdressing the salad: It makes the greens wilt and the flavors overwhelming. Drizzle lightly!
- Skipping the seasoning on chicken: Unseasoned protein = bland salad. Use that spice rack.
- Mixing everything too early: Especially fruits — they’ll make your greens soggy.
- Not drying your greens: Waterlogged lettuce ruins the whole vibe. Spin or pat dry every time.
- Using poor-quality cheese or nuts: It might seem minor, but the toppings carry a lot of the flavor.
Avoid these, and your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe will rival the one at the restaurant — every single time.
Need another healthy chicken option that’s outside the salad bowl? This recipe for chicken pastry gives you a cozy alternative that’s still wholesome and homemade.
Nutrition Breakdown: Is Chick Fil A Market Salad Healthy?
Short answer? Absolutely — especially when you’re making it yourself. The beauty of this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is that it hits all the marks for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal. You’ve got lean protein, fresh veggies, antioxidant-rich fruits, and healthy fats from nuts and olive oil.
Let’s break it down based on an average serving:
- Calories: ~420–500 (depending on toppings and dressing quantity)
- Protein: 30–35g
- Carbs: 22–30g (mainly from fruit)
- Fat: 20–25g (mostly healthy fats from nuts and oil)
- Fiber: 5–7g
This salad is a powerhouse — it fills you up without weighing you down. And when you make it from scratch, you have full control over sodium, sugar, and portion sizes.
Want even more control over sodium or specific macros? This guide to low sodium chicken recipes is a great place to explore leaner options without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts on This Chick Fil A Market Salad Recipe
If you’ve been craving a refreshing, filling, and satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like diet food, the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is it. It’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor — plus, it’s one of the easiest ways to upgrade your salad game without relying on store-bought dressings or mystery meats.
You now know how to:
- Build the perfect salad base
- Balance sweet and savory toppings
- Whip up that signature apple cider vinaigrette
- Store it smartly and prep it ahead for the week
- Make it your own with protein swaps and flavor variations
You’ve got all the tools — now it’s time to get chopping and make this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe your own. Whether you’re eating it solo or serving it with something comforting like this chicken rice a roni recipe, it’s a guaranteed win.
Ready to try it? Let me know how you customized it or what protein twist you added. I’d love to hear what you come up with!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chick Fil A Market Salad Recipe
1. What ingredients are in the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe?
The Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe includes a mix of fresh greens like romaine and baby spinach, grilled chicken breast, sliced apples, strawberries, blueberries, crumbled blue cheese, and roasted nuts. It’s topped with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette that brings everything together. You can customize the ingredients to fit your dietary needs, but the original combo offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh.
2. How do you make the Chick Fil A Market Salad dressing at home?
To make the vinaigrette for the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe, whisk together ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup), garlic and onion powder, and ⅓ cup olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. This light, zesty dressing ties the salad together with just the right balance of tang and sweetness — and no preservatives.
3. Is the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe healthy?
Yes, the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is a nutritious choice packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats. When made at home, it’s even better because you control the sodium, sugar, and portion sizes. With grilled chicken, fresh fruits, and a homemade vinaigrette, it fits into most balanced diets — even keto or low-carb with a few tweaks.
4. Can I meal prep the Chick Fil A Market Salad for the week?
Absolutely! The Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just keep your ingredients separate until you’re ready to serve. Store chopped greens with a paper towel to keep them crisp, and keep the dressing in a jar. Add fruits and dressing just before eating for maximum freshness. Grilled chicken can be prepped and stored up to 4 days.
5. What’s a good substitute for blue cheese in this salad recipe?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try feta, goat cheese, or even dairy-free cheese crumbles in your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe. You’ll still get that creamy texture without the strong flavor. Or skip the cheese altogether and bulk up with extra nuts, avocado, or seasoned chickpeas for richness.
6. Can I use frozen fruit in the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe?
While fresh fruit is ideal for the best texture, you can use thawed frozen berries in your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe if needed. Just be sure to pat them dry after defrosting so they don’t water down your greens. Apples and other crisp fruits should always be fresh for the right crunch.
7. What other proteins go well in the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe?
Besides grilled chicken, you can add grilled shrimp, turkey breast, tofu, or even rotisserie chicken to the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe. It’s versatile, so feel free to use what’s in your fridge. Just season it well so your protein doesn’t get lost in the mix of bold flavors and fresh produce.
8. What is in Market Salad Chick-fil-A?
The Market Salad at Chick-fil-A features a colorful mix of ingredients: sliced grilled chicken breast, chopped romaine and baby greens, shredded red cabbage, carrots, sliced strawberries, blueberries, green apple slices, roasted nuts (like almonds), and crumbled blue cheese. It’s typically served with a packet of apple cider vinaigrette, which complements the sweet and savory flavors. This Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe includes all those ingredients with options to customize at home.
9. Is Chick-fil-A Market Salad healthy?
Yes — the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe is considered a healthy option, especially compared to many other fast food meals. It’s loaded with lean grilled chicken, nutrient-rich leafy greens, and antioxidant-packed fruits. When made at home, it’s even healthier since you can control the sodium, sugar, and fat content — particularly in the dressing and toppings. It’s a great choice for those looking for a fresh, filling, and balanced meal.
10. How to make Chick-fil-A chicken salad?
To make a Chick-fil-A–style chicken salad (the classic creamy version they used to serve), combine shredded cooked chicken breast with mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, sweet pickle relish, salt, and pepper. For the Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe, though, the chicken is grilled and sliced instead of mixed into a creamy base. But if you’re after the original sandwich-style salad, this best Hellmann’s chicken salad recipe is a close match!
11. What dressing for Market Salad?
The traditional Chick-fil-A Market Salad is served with apple cider vinaigrette — a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that pairs perfectly with the fruits and grilled chicken. In the homemade Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe, this dressing is made from scratch using apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and a few simple spices. It’s easy to whip up and adds just the right flavor balance to the dish.
Conclusion
There’s a reason this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe has such a loyal following. It’s light yet filling, packed with fresh ingredients, and tastes like something you’d get at a high-end café — not your usual fast food joint. But now, with just a bit of prep, you can make it at home whenever the craving hits.
From that juicy grilled chicken to the crunchy greens, tart fruits, roasted nuts, and that famous apple cider vinaigrette — every bite of this Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction. And unlike the drive-thru version, this homemade recipe gives you full control over what goes in. Want it lower carb? Done. Need a dairy-free version? Easy. Want to meal prep a few for the week? Totally doable.
So what’s stopping you? Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a meal prep staple, this salad is guaranteed to impress. Give it a go, tweak it to your taste, and make it a regular in your weekly rotation. You’ll wonder how you ever settled for the store-bought kind.
Tried it? Let us know how you customized your Chick Fil A Market Salad recipe in the comments or share your favorite protein add-ins — we love seeing your spin on it!