Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is a timeless Southern classic. Known for its tender chicken, creamy texture, and the sweet crunch of pickles, it’s a favorite at Chicken Salad Chick. This recipe blends simple ingredients into rich, comforting flavors. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch. Follow along to recreate this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen.
Introduction to Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad Recipe
Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is one of the most loved recipes from Chicken Salad Chick’s menu. It stands out for its simple ingredients, yet delivers a flavor that feels nostalgic and homemade. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and the distinct sweetness of pickles creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
This chicken salad takes inspiration from traditional Southern recipes, where home cooks often relied on pantry staples and fresh-cooked chicken to make a quick but satisfying meal. Over time, Olivia’s Old South has become a go-to choice for those who appreciate comfort food with a touch of charm.
Key Ingredients and Flavor Profile
The magic of Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad lies in its carefully chosen ingredients that work together to create a rich yet refreshing taste. Each component plays a specific role in building the recipe’s signature flavor.
- Chicken: The heart of the dish. Traditionally, cooked white meat chicken is used for its mild flavor and tender texture. Shredding the chicken instead of chopping ensures every bite is soft and blends well with the dressing.
- Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base that binds everything together. It provides a smooth, luscious texture and a subtle tang. Using high-quality mayonnaise makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Sweet Pickles: The defining feature of Olivia’s Old South. They bring a sweet-and-tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the salad. Chopping them finely ensures even flavor distribution.
- Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs add richness, depth, and a slight firmness that enhances the salad’s body.
- Seasonings: A light touch of salt and pepper keeps the flavors balanced. Some variations also include a pinch of sugar or paprika to brighten the taste.
The flavor profile can be summed up as creamy, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet with a fresh crunch. The chicken provides a hearty base, the mayonnaise gives it smoothness, and the pickles and eggs add texture and brightness. Together, these elements create the signature taste that makes Olivia’s Old South so beloved.
Choosing and Preparing the Chicken
The quality of your chicken directly impacts the flavor and texture of Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad. Selecting the right cut and preparing it properly ensures a tender, flavorful base that blends perfectly with the creamy dressing.
Best Cuts to Use
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the most common choice, offering a mild flavor and lean texture that absorbs seasonings well.
- Chicken tenderloins: Naturally tender and quick to cook, making them ideal if you’re short on time.
- Rotisserie chicken: A convenient option that adds a slight roasted depth to the salad. Be sure to remove the skin for a smoother texture.
Cooking Methods
- Poaching: Simmer chicken gently in water or broth until just cooked. This method keeps the meat moist and subtly flavored.
- Baking: Season lightly and bake at 350°F until fully cooked. Baking is hands-off and produces consistent results.
- Pressure cooking or slow cooking: Perfect for batch cooking, these methods yield very tender meat that’s easy to shred.
Shredding the Chicken
Once cooked, let the chicken rest until slightly cool. Use two forks to pull it apart into fine shreds, or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for faster shredding. The goal is to create small, uniform pieces so every bite blends evenly with the dressing.
Extra Flavor Tips
Poach chicken in seasoned broth with onion, celery, and bay leaf for added depth. Avoid overcooking, as dry chicken will make the salad less creamy. Chill the shredded chicken before mixing to maintain freshness and prevent the mayonnaise from becoming greasy.
Ingredient List (with Measurements)
To capture the authentic taste of Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad, precise measurements are essential. The recipe below is for a standard batch that serves about 4–6 people. You can easily scale it up or down depending on your needs.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast finely shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise use a good-quality brand for the best flavor
- ⅓ cup sweet pickles finely chopped (or sweet pickle relish for smoother texture)
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- (Optional) ½ teaspoon sugar to enhance sweetness if desired
- (Optional) ¼ teaspoon paprika for a hint of color and smoky depth
Scaling Tips
For half the recipe, simply divide each ingredient in half. For double the recipe, multiply each ingredient by two, but taste and adjust seasonings at the end to ensure balance.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: Freshly cooked chicken yields the best texture. Avoid canned chicken if possible, as it tends to be mushy.
- Pickles: Sweet pickles are key to the authentic flavor, but if you prefer a sharper tang, substitute with dill pickles and a pinch of sugar.
- Mayonnaise: Avoid low-fat versions, which can make the dressing watery.
- Eggs: Ensure they are fully cooked but not overboiled to keep the yolks creamy, not chalky.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is straightforward, but following the right steps ensures you get that perfect creamy texture and balanced flavor every time.
Step 1 Prepare the Chicken
If starting with raw chicken, cook it using your preferred method (poaching, baking, or slow cooking). Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred it finely using two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Place the shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2 Chop the Add-Ins
Finely chop the sweet pickles (or use sweet pickle relish). Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces. This ensures each bite has evenly distributed crunch and flavor.
Step 3 Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like sugar or paprika. Stir until smooth. This step ensures the seasoning is evenly incorporated before it meets the chicken.
Step 4 Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped eggs and sweet pickles to the bowl of shredded chicken. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the top. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold everything together gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, which can break down the chicken too much.
Step 5 Taste and Adjust
Sample a small spoonful and adjust seasonings as needed. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or sweet pickle juice to suit your taste.
Step 6 Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7 Serve and Enjoy
Serve on fresh bread, croissants, crackers, or over a bed of lettuce. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or extra pickle slices for presentation.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results
While Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is simple to make, small adjustments can take it from “good” to “authentic and unforgettable.” These tips ensure you nail the flavor, texture, and presentation every time.
Use Freshly Cooked Chicken
Freshly poached or baked chicken has better texture and flavor than canned or pre-shredded chicken. If possible, cook the chicken in seasoned broth to infuse subtle flavor right from the start.
Shred, Don’t Dice
Shredding creates a softer, creamier mouthfeel compared to large chunks. Aim for thin, short shreds so the mayonnaise coats the chicken evenly.
Dry Ingredients Before Mixing
Pat the chicken and pickles dry before combining to avoid excess moisture. This helps the dressing cling to the ingredients instead of becoming watery.
Balance the Sweetness
Sweet pickles define this recipe, but too much can overpower it. Taste before adding sugar—sometimes the pickles provide all the sweetness you need.
Season Gradually
Add salt and pepper in small amounts, tasting after each addition. Remember, flavors deepen after chilling, so avoid over-seasoning at the start.
Chill for Flavor Development
Refrigerating for at least 1–2 hours allows flavors to meld. For even richer taste, prepare it the night before and let it rest overnight.
Use High-Quality Mayonnaise
The mayonnaise is the glue holding this salad together—cheap or low-fat versions can taste thin or artificial. Brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s work well for an authentic Southern flavor.
Avoid Overmixing
Stir just enough to coat the ingredients. Overmixing can make the salad dense and mushy.
Customize to Taste
For extra crunch, stir in finely chopped celery. For a tangy kick, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of pickle juice.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
One of the best things about Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch, a picnic spread, or a party platter, this recipe can be served in multiple ways to fit the occasion.
Classic Sandwiches
Spoon the chicken salad between slices of soft white bread or hearty wheat bread. Add crisp lettuce leaves for freshness and a little crunch. For extra indulgence, serve on buttery croissants for a rich, flaky bite.
Wraps and Pita Pockets
Spread the chicken salad onto a tortilla, add lettuce or spinach, and roll it up for an easy handheld meal. Stuff into pita pockets with sliced tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
Crackers and Appetizer Bites
Serve with buttery crackers for a quick snack or appetizer. For a party platter, top cucumber slices or toasted baguette rounds with a dollop of chicken salad and garnish with a pickle slice.
Lettuce Cups
Spoon the salad into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option. This works especially well for gluten-free serving.
Salad Bowls
Place a generous scoop of chicken salad over a bed of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or extra pickle juice for brightness.
Picnic and Potluck Presentation
Serve chilled in a large bowl surrounded by bread, crackers, and fresh veggies so guests can create their own servings.
Pairing Ideas
- Sides: Fresh fruit salad, potato chips, coleslaw, or pasta salad complement the creamy, savory flavor.
- Beverages: Sweet iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water balance the richness.
- Desserts: Finish with classic Southern treats like pecan pie bars or banana pudding for a complete meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Advice
Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad not only tastes great fresh but also holds up well in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead dish. Proper storage ensures it stays safe to eat, maintains its creamy texture, and keeps the flavors fresh.
Storing in the Refrigerator
- Container Choice: Store in an airtight container to prevent the salad from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
- Temperature: Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Shelf Life: For best taste and safety, consume within 3–4 days. After that, the texture may become watery and flavor may decline.
Avoiding Watery Salad
Make sure the chicken and pickles are well-drained before mixing. If liquid forms during storage, stir the salad gently before serving to reincorporate the dressing.
Freezing Advice
Freezing is not recommended for mayonnaise-based chicken salad, as the dressing can separate and become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, do so without the mayonnaise, then mix in fresh mayonnaise after thawing.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can cook and shred the chicken up to 2 days in advance and store it separately until ready to mix. Chop the pickles and eggs a day ahead to save time on assembly day. For the best flavor, make the salad a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld in the fridge.
Serving After Storage
Stir gently before serving to refresh the texture. If the salad seems dry after chilling, mix in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of pickle juice to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad is a satisfying yet relatively balanced dish, especially when served in moderate portions or paired with lighter sides. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown for a 1-cup serving made according to the recipe in this article.
Estimated Nutrition per 1-Cup Serving
- Calories: ~350–370 kcal
- Protein: 25–27 g
- Fat: 24–26 g
- Carbohydrates: 4–6 g
- Fiber: 0–1 g
- Sugar: 3–4 g
- Cholesterol: 145–160 mg
- Sodium: 550–650 mg
(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and brands used.)
Dietary Notes and Adjustments
- Lower-Fat Option: Use light mayonnaise or replace part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This reduces fat content and slightly boosts protein.
- Low-Carb/Keto Friendly: Naturally low in carbs, especially when served in lettuce cups or on greens instead of bread.
- Gluten-Free: The salad itself contains no gluten; just choose gluten-free bread or crackers if serving with carbs.
- Lower Sodium: Use unsalted chicken and choose reduced-sodium pickles or mayonnaise to bring down the sodium level.
- Egg-Free Version: Omit hard-boiled eggs and use an egg-free mayonnaise alternative for those with allergies.
Conclusion
Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad captures the heart of Southern cooking—simple ingredients, easy preparation, and flavors that bring people together. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and sweet pickle crunch, it’s a recipe that works for quick lunches, elegant brunches, or shared gatherings. Now that you have the full guide, you can recreate this beloved classic anytime, knowing it will deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
FAQS
Olivia’s Old South Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Use a food processor or Kitchen Aid to shred your chicken. This is the KEY to getting the texture that Chicken Salad has!
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast
- FINELY mince your celery – to where you can barely see pieces.
- 2 tbsp celery
- In a medium bowl, add chicken, celery, eggs, relish mayonnaise and onion powder and stir until combined.
- 2/3 cup Duke's mayonnaise,1/8 tsp onion powder,2 hard boiled eggs,3 tbsp sweet pickle relish,1 tbsp pickle juice
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours in a covered dish.
- Serve with bread, crackers or on a salad.