Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Newk’s chicken salad recipe is a beloved Southern favorite that has gained popularity across the United States. This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender chicken with a perfect blend of seasonings and add-ins, creating a versatile salad that’s ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone dish. In this article, we’ll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.

How to make Newk’s Chicken Salad

Newk’s Eatery, a fast-casual restaurant chain founded in Oxford, Mississippi, is renowned for its delicious chicken salad. The secret to their recipe lies in the quality of ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, we’ve developed a version that comes very close to the original.

This homemade version captures the essence of Newk’s chicken salad – creamy, slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch from the vegetables. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients for Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe

• 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chilled and diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s for authentic Southern flavor)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a slight kick

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   If you haven’t already, cook the chicken breasts. You can poach, bake, or grill them. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely before dicing into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the dressing:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the seasonings:
   Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. If using, add the cayenne pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
4. Combine with chicken and vegetables:
   Add the diced chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Add the final touches:
   Fold in the toasted sliced almonds and dried cranberries. These add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness to the salad.
6. Chill the salad:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
7. Taste and adjust:
   Before serving, taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
8. Serve:
   Serve the chicken salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers as an appetizer.

Tips for Making the Perfect Newk’s Chicken Salad

1. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
2. Poach the chicken breasts for extra tenderness and moisture.
3. Chill the cooked chicken before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent the mayonnaise from breaking.
4. Toast the almonds to enhance their flavor and crunch.
5. Don’t overmix the salad; gentle folding will keep the chicken pieces intact.
6. Allow time for the flavors to meld in the refrigerator before serving.

What to Serve with Newk’s Chicken Salad

1. Fresh croissants or artisanal bread for sandwiches
2. Mixed green salad
3. Fresh fruit salad
4. Tomato basil soup
5. Crispy kettle chips
6. Pickle spears
7. Pasta salad

Ingredient Substitutes

Mayonnaise:
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.

Sour Cream:
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a tangy, lower-fat alternative.

Dried Cranberries:
Substitute with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or diced Granny Smith apples for a different twist.

Sliced Almonds:
Try chopped pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch and flavor profile.

Fresh Parsley:
Fresh dill or chives can be used for a different herbal note.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Newk’s chicken salad recipe at home allows you to enjoy this Southern classic anytime you want. With its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, coupled with a satisfying crunch, this chicken salad is versatile enough to be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it at a luncheon, or simply enjoying it as a quick and satisfying meal, this homemade version of Newk’s chicken salad is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience the delicious taste of the South in your own kitchen!