Copycat Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, tangy apple cider–Dijon vinaigrette that balances kale’s earthiness.
• Ultra-crunchy mix of shredded kale and green cabbage, just like the fast-casual favorite.
• Toasted sliced almonds add nutty flavor and crisp texture in every bite.
• Make-ahead friendly—actually gets better after a short rest.

Grocery List

• Produce: Curly kale, green cabbage
• Dairy: None
• Pantry: Apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, sliced almonds, neutral oil (canola/avocado/grapeseed), extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder (optional)

Full Ingredients

For the Salad

• 8 cups curly kale, thinly sliced (about 8 oz / 225 g)
• 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 oz / 170 g)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (about 45 g)

Apple Cider–Dijon Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) neutral oil (canola/avocado/grapeseed)
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the almonds

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sliced almonds on a small baking sheet in an even layer and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring once halfway through. They are done when lightly golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool so they stay crisp.

Step 2: Strip and slice the kale

Hold each kale stem at the base and strip the leaves away. Stack the leaves and slice into thin ribbons (about 1/4 inch / 6 mm). Rinse the sliced kale in cold water and dry thoroughly in a salad spinner or with towels—excess water will dilute the dressing.

Step 3: Shred the cabbage

Quarter the cabbage, cut out the core, and slice very thinly to make fine shreds. Measure 2 packed cups (about 6 oz / 170 g). Keeping the shreds thin mimics the light, crunchy texture of the original side.

Step 4: Make the vinaigrette

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). While whisking constantly, slowly stream in the neutral oil and then the extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing turns glossy and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Dress and massage the kale

Add the sliced kale to the bowl and pour in about two-thirds of the vinaigrette. Use clean hands to massage and toss the kale for 1–2 minutes. This breaks down the fibers so the kale becomes tender without losing its pleasant chew. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the flavors penetrate.

Step 6: Finish with cabbage and almonds

Add the shredded cabbage and the remaining vinaigrette; toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or a splash of vinegar for brightness. Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top right before serving to retain their crunch.

Pro Tips

• Dry greens thoroughly—water clinging to kale or cabbage will thin the vinaigrette and mute the flavor.
• Massage just until kale turns a deeper green and softens; overworking can make it limp.
• Toast almonds fresh; cool them completely before adding so they stay crisp.
• For extra tang, stir in 1–2 teaspoons more apple cider vinegar at the end.
• Slice everything thinly for that signature light, crunchy bite.

Variations

• Cranberry Twist: Fold in 1/4 cup dried cranberries for a sweet pop (not classic, but delicious).
• Nut Swap: Use toasted pecans or pepitas instead of almonds.
• Vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup in equal measure.

Storage & Make-Ahead

The dressed salad keeps well for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator; kale holds its texture. For the best crunch, store almonds separately and sprinkle just before serving. Make the vinaigrette up to 1 week ahead; refrigerate in a sealed jar and shake before using. If oils solidify when chilled, let the dressing sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and shake again.

Nutrition (per serving)

Approximate values: 200 calories; 18 g fat; 9 g carbohydrates (2 g fiber); 3 g protein; 260 mg sodium. Values will vary based on exact ingredients and brands.