Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe

When I think of chicken salad, I think of the perfect balance between creamy and fresh flavors. And when it comes to the best of the best, nothing beats Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe. Made with tender, all-white chicken breast, it’s simple yet full of flavor—a true classic.

What makes this recipe a standout? It’s the perfectly cooked, all-white chicken breast and that signature fresh, homemade touch. Straub’s chicken salad is a beloved favorite in St. Louis, and once you taste it, you’ll see why. It’s the perfect go-to for a quick lunch, a picnic, or even a light dinner.

So, grab your ingredients, and let’s whip up this classic, crowd-pleasing dish together.

Why You Will Love Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Let me tell you why I absolutely love this recipe and why I think you’ll love it too! Straub’s Chicken Salad is the perfect mix of simple ingredients and incredible flavor. It’s made fresh, by hand, with tender, all-white chicken breast—and trust me, you can taste the difference.

What makes it extra special is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a sandwich, on top of a crisp salad, or even straight out of the bowl (no judgment here!). Plus, it’s so popular in St. Louis that over 35 tons of it are enjoyed every year. That says a lot about how good it is!

It’s creamy, fresh, and so easy to make. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite…

What’s in Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe?

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and delicious Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe:

• 1 Lemon Pepper Rotisserie Chicken (or any rotisserie chicken of your choice)
• 1/2 cup Duke’s Mayonnaise
• 2 Hard Boiled Eggs, finely diced
• 1 to 2 stalks of Green Onion, finely chopped
• 3 to 4 tablespoons Sweet Relish or Salad Cubes
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Ranch Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon Lemon Pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Olive Oil (for added moisture)

Recipe Substitutions

You can always make adjustments to fit your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.

• Chicken: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use any cooked chicken (such as grilled or baked chicken). Just be sure to shred it finely.
• Mayonnaise: If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use sour cream.
• Relish: Sweet relish is key in this recipe, but if you prefer a different flavor, you can swap it for dill relish or even chopped pickles.
• Dijon Mustard: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, regular yellow mustard works just as well.

Kitchen Appliances

Here are a few kitchen tools that will make this recipe even easier to prepare:

1. Shredder: To pull apart your rotisserie chicken quickly and efficiently.
2. Knife: For chopping the green onions and eggs.
3. Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients into the perfect creamy chicken salad.

How To Make Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by boiling 2-3 eggs for about 10 minutes. Once done, let them cool, peel them, and dice them into small pieces. Set aside.

Step2: Shred the Chicken

Grab your rotisserie chicken and remove all the meat. Use your fingers or a knife to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, making sure to include both dark and white meat for the best flavor.

Step3: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup of Duke’s Mayo. The mayo helps bind everything together and gives the salad its creamy texture. To this, add the 2 finely diced boiled eggs, 1 to 2 chopped green onions, and 3 to 4 tablespoons of sweet relish.

Step4: Add the Seasonings

Now it’s time for the flavor! Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of ranch powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. The sugar is a Southern twist that balances the flavors perfectly.

Step5: Taste and Adjust

Stir everything together and give it a taste. If you prefer a more moist chicken salad, you can add more mayo. If you want it a bit tangier, a touch more Dijon mustard can do the trick.

Step6: Finish Up

Add salt and pepper to taste, and don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil to add some moisture to the salad. Stir everything well, making sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Straub’s Chicken Salad on sandwich bread, over greens, or with crackers for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

For extra flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of lemon pepper if you like a bit of zest in your salad.
Consistency: If you prefer a creamier consistency, simply add more mayonnaise to suit your taste.
Sweetness: The sugar adds a nice touch of sweetness, but if you don’t like sweet in your savory dishes, you can skip it.

Recipe Variations and Additions

While the Straub’s Chicken Salad recipe is fantastic on its own, here are a few ideas to change it up a bit:

1. Add Nuts: Add chopped pecans or almonds for some crunch.
2. Spicy Chicken Salad: If you like a little heat, try adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Veggies: For a bit of extra color and texture, consider adding diced celery or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestion

This chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways you can enjoy it:

1. Classic Sandwich: Spread it on bread for a hearty sandwich.
2. On a Salad: Serve over mixed greens for a lighter option.
3. With Crackers: Enjoy as a quick snack with some crunchy crackers.

Storage Tips

Store your Straub’s Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dish for lunches or picnics. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and you’re good to go!

Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Straub’s chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it for quick lunches or snacks.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free mayo alternative and skip the ranch powder or use a dairy-free seasoning mix.
What’s the best bread to serve with this chicken salad?
Soft white bread, toasted wheat bread, or croissants work wonderfully. Choose whatever you enjoy most!

Can I make this chicken salad spicier?

Yes, absolutely! If you like a little heat, you can easily make this chicken salad spicier. Add more Cajun seasoning for extra kick, or toss in some hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to give it that spicy touch. Just be careful and taste as you go, so you don’t add too much heat at once.

Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken! Simply roast or grill the chicken breasts, then shred them to match the texture of rotisserie chicken. While rotisserie chicken brings extra flavor due to its seasoning, using chicken breast will still give you a tasty and satisfying result. Just be sure to season the chicken well before cooking to add that extra flavor boost!

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Most kids love this mild, creamy chicken salad. You can adjust seasonings to suit their taste.

What side dishes pair well with this chicken salad?

Try serving with potato chips, fresh fruit, coleslaw, or a light green salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the flavors develop beautifully when you let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

How do I keep the chicken salad from getting too runny?

To avoid a runny chicken salad, make sure you measure the mayo carefully. If you like your chicken salad on the thicker side, you can always start with less mayo and add more if needed. You can also add a little bit of olive oil to adjust the consistency, making it creamy without being too watery.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe as much as I do! It’s one of those recipes that’s simple to prepare, yet bursting with flavor that everyone will love. The combination of rotisserie chicken, mayo, and the perfect blend of seasonings will surely make this a new favorite in your kitchen.

I’d love to hear how your chicken salad turns out, so be sure to share your experience in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes like this one.