The quest for the perfect chicken salad could lead you across the entire United States, from cozy diners to upscale restaurants. Yet, some of the most delightful and diverse versions of this beloved dish are found within the nation's favorite restaurant chains. Here's a guide to where you can indulge in the ultimate chicken salad experience, from classic recipes to innovative twists that cater to every taste.

A Culinary Journey Through Chicken Salad

Chicken salad has evolved significantly since its American debut in the 19th century, transforming from a simple mixture of chicken, mayo, grapes, and tarragon to an array of sophisticated and flavorful combinations. Today, this versatile dish not only serves as a standalone meal but also complements barbecues and doubles as a crowd-pleasing dip. With each restaurant chain putting its unique spin on chicken salad, the options are endless for finding your perfect match.

Where to Find the Best Chicken Salad

Among the numerous chains that feature chicken salad on their menus, a few stand out for their exceptional offerings. Here's where you can find top-notch chicken salad, whether you prefer it in a sandwich or on its own.

Au Bon Pain's Signature Scoop

Au Bon Pain, with its widespread presence, offers a chicken salad scoop that combines chicken, cranberries, and toasted almonds with mayo. Served over field greens with grape tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette, it's a fresh take on the classic.

Honey Baked Ham's Legendary Sandwich

At Honey Baked Ham, the chicken salad sandwich has earned accolades for its delicious blend of flavors, nestled between a croissant with lettuce and tomato. It's a must-try for both traditional and adventurous palates.

Chicken Salad Chick's Diverse Menu

With a name like Chicken Salad Chick, expect a wide variety of chicken salads, including the Classic Carol— a simple yet perfectly seasoned concoction. With 12 varieties to choose from, there's a flavor for every preference.

Panera's Napa Almond Delight

Panera Bread's Napa almond chicken salad sandwich is a fan favorite, featuring antibiotic-free chicken and a special dressing with toasted almonds and red grapes, all served on rustic sourdough bread.

Pret a Manger's Healthy Twist

Pret a Manger offers a healthier version of the chicken salad sandwich, with antibiotic-free grilled chicken and cage-free mayo, topped with avocado and greens on multigrain bread.

Arby's Seasonal Favorite

Arby's pecan chicken salad sandwich, though available for a limited time, garners a loyal following for its unique blend of chicken, pecans, apples, celery, and red grapes.

Jason's Deli's Wholesome Option

For those mindful of ingredients, Jason's Deli presents a chicken salad with almonds and pineapple, free from processed MSG, artificial trans fats, and other additives, offering a guilt-free indulgence.

Whether you're a chicken salad aficionado or a curious foodie, these restaurant chains are sure to satisfy your cravings with their inventive and delicious takes on a classic American dish. The journey to find your favorite chicken salad starts here.