Step 1: Prepare the chicken. If using raw chicken breasts, poach them until fully cooked, then cool completely. Finely dice or shred the cooled chicken into small, uniform pieces. If using leftover rotisserie chicken, ensure it's cooled and finely diced.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely diced cooked chicken, finely diced celery, and drained sweet pickle relish. Toss gently to combine these ingredients evenly.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is your creamy dressing for the chick-fil-a chicken salad recipe.
Step 4: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients until all the chicken and celery are thoroughly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the chicken mushy.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, greatly enhancing the taste of your chick-fil-a chicken salad recipe. For optimal flavor, chill for 2-3 hours before serving.
Step 6: Serve your homemade Chick-fil-A chicken salad chilled on toasted bread, in lettuce wraps, with crackers, or as part of your favorite lunch spread. Enjoy this nostalgic taste!