Publix chicken salad is a Southern favorite known for its creamy texture and fresh flavor. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both comforting and versatile. Loved for sandwiches, wraps, or as a light side, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this deli classic at home, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you the exact steps, tips, and variations to make it just like Publix—or even better.
Introduction to Publix Chicken Salad Recipe
Publix is more than just a grocery store in the South—it’s a tradition. One of the deli’s most loved items is the classic chicken salad. It’s creamy, fresh, and perfectly balanced, making it a staple for quick lunches and family gatherings.
What makes Publix chicken salad stand out is its simplicity. Instead of a long list of ingredients, it relies on tender chicken, crisp celery, and creamy mayonnaise with a touch of seasoning. This balance creates a flavor that feels homemade yet consistently delicious every time.
For many fans, grabbing a tub of chicken salad from the Publix deli has become a weekly ritual. It’s versatile enough to spread on crackers, layer inside a sandwich, or serve as a side with fresh fruit. Because of its popularity, countless home cooks want to recreate the same taste in their own kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Publix chicken salad lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t require complicated ingredients, yet the combination delivers a creamy, fresh, and satisfying flavor. To recreate this recipe at home, gather the following essentials:
Core Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded, or finely chopped chicken is the star of the recipe. Rotisserie chicken can also be used for convenience.
- Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base. A high-quality, full-fat mayo gives the closest taste to Publix’s version.
- Celery: Freshly chopped celery adds crunch and balances the richness with a crisp bite.
- Seasonings: A pinch of salt and black pepper enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Optional Add-Ins
While the Publix version is quite simple, you can add extras if you like:
- Sweet Relish or Pickles: For a touch of tang and sweetness.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: To make it heartier and add more protein.
- Onion Powder or Finely Diced Onions: For a little extra bite.
- Grapes or Dried Cranberries: To give a sweet contrast.
- Nuts (Pecans or Almonds): For crunch and richness.
Ingredient Tips
Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor, but leftover chicken works fine if seasoned lightly. Avoid overloading with extras if you want the authentic Publix-style taste; keep it simple. Chill the ingredients before mixing for a fresher, deli-style texture.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making Publix-style chicken salad at home is simple, but the key is in the details. Follow these steps to get the perfect texture and flavor every time.
Cook the Chicken
Boil or poach chicken breasts in lightly salted water until fully cooked (about 15–20 minutes). For added flavor, you can simmer the chicken with bay leaves, garlic, or onion. Once cooked, let it cool before chopping or shredding. This helps the chicken stay tender and moist.
- Shortcut: A rotisserie chicken works well if you want a quicker option. Just remove the skin and shred the meat finely.
Chop the Celery
Dice fresh celery into small, uniform pieces. This ensures every bite has crunch without overpowering the creamy base.
Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. This will coat the chicken evenly.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled chicken and celery into the mayo mixture. Mix gently until all pieces are evenly coated. Avoid over-stirring, as it can make the salad mushy.
Taste and Adjust
Taste for seasoning. Add a little more salt, pepper, or mayo depending on your preference. If you’re adding optional extras like relish, grapes, or nuts, fold them in at this stage.
Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to blend together, giving it that authentic deli-style taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Scoop into sandwiches, wraps, or serve with crackers and fresh fruit. For a classic Publix-style experience, serve on soft sandwich bread with lettuce and tomato.
Tips for Getting the Authentic Publix Flavor
Publix chicken salad stands out because of its balance—creamy but not heavy, flavorful yet simple. If you want your homemade version to taste just like the deli classic, keep these tips in mind:
Use the Right Chicken
Publix uses white-meat chicken breast that is finely shredded or chopped. Avoid dark meat if you want to stick with the authentic flavor. Cook chicken gently—boiling too hard can make it rubbery.
Stick to Simple Seasoning
Don’t overload with spices or herbs. A pinch of salt and black pepper is usually all that’s needed. Simplicity is what makes the flavor so recognizable.
Choose Quality Mayonnaise
The creamy base makes or breaks the recipe. Use a good-quality, full-fat mayo for the closest match. Avoid light or flavored versions, as they change the taste.
Celery for Fresh Crunch
Publix’s chicken salad always has a crisp texture. Make sure your celery is fresh and chopped small so it blends smoothly with the chicken.
Pay Attention to Ratios
- The key balance is: more chicken than mayo.
The chicken should be coated but not swimming in dressing. Start with less mayo and add more only if needed.
Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour makes a huge difference. This allows the chicken to absorb the mayo and seasonings, creating that familiar deli-style taste.
Keep It Classic
If your goal is to replicate Publix exactly, avoid too many add-ins like grapes, nuts, or eggs. Publix keeps their recipe straightforward, and that’s part of its charm.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
One of the best things about Publix chicken salad is its versatility. It’s not just a deli spread—it’s a meal base you can enjoy in many ways. Here are some of the most popular serving ideas and pairings:
Classic Sandwich
The most loved option is a simple chicken salad sandwich. Use soft white bread, croissants, or a sub roll for that deli-style feel. Add crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, or even cheese for extra layers of flavor.
Wraps and Pita Pockets
Spoon chicken salad into a tortilla wrap or pita bread for a light, handheld option. Pair with fresh greens, shredded carrots, or cucumbers for crunch.
On Crackers or Toast
A quick and easy snack is serving chicken salad on crackers. Works well as an appetizer, lunchbox item, or party dip. Toasted baguette slices are also a great choice for a slightly fancier presentation.
Salad Bowl
For a lighter option, scoop chicken salad on top of a bed of lettuce or mixed greens. Add cucumber, grape tomatoes, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese to make it more filling.
With Fruit or Veggie Sides
Publix often sells chicken salad with sides like apple slices, grapes, or carrot sticks. The sweetness of fruit pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory chicken.
Party Platter Style
Serve chicken salad in a large bowl surrounded by crackers, bread slices, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Low-Carb Options
For a healthier twist, enjoy chicken salad inside lettuce cups or cucumber boats. This cuts down on carbs but still delivers flavor and crunch.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is the key to keeping your Publix-style chicken salad safe, fresh, and tasty. Since it’s made with chicken and mayonnaise, it needs a little extra care compared to other salads.
Refrigeration is a Must
Always store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature is below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth. Avoid leaving it out on the counter for more than 2 hours.
Shelf Life
Homemade chicken salad usually lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Publix deli chicken salad has a similar shelf life, so always check the “use by” date if buying prepackaged.
Freezing Chicken Salad
While it’s possible to freeze chicken salad, it’s not recommended because mayonnaise tends to separate when thawed, resulting in a watery texture. If you do freeze, use an airtight freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge overnight. Expect some texture changes.
Signs It’s Gone Bad
Always check before serving:
- Sour or off smell
- Slimy or watery texture
- Discoloration (gray or yellow tint)
If you notice any of these, discard it immediately.
Tips for Longer Freshness
Use freshly cooked chicken rather than leftovers that are already a day or two old. Store the salad in smaller containers, so you only open what you need. Keep it chilled until serving—placing the bowl on ice for picnics or parties is a smart idea.
Nutritional Information
Publix chicken salad is delicious, but if you’re mindful of calories or nutrients, it helps to know what’s inside. The exact numbers may vary depending on portion size and added ingredients, but here’s a general breakdown for one serving (about ½ cup / 100g):
Average Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250–300
- Protein: 12–15g
- Fat: 20–24g
- Carbohydrates: 2–4g
- Fiber: 0–1g
- Sugars: 1–2g
- Sodium: 350–450mg
Why It’s Balanced
- Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, making it filling and satisfying.
- Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise contributes most of the fat, which adds creaminess and helps keep you full.
- Low Carbs: Publix-style chicken salad is naturally low in carbs, which makes it suitable for keto or low-carb diets when eaten without bread.
Healthier Modifications
If you love chicken salad but want a lighter version, try these swaps:
Use Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the mayonnaise for lower fat and added protein. Add more veggies like celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers to increase fiber and volume without many calories. Choose whole-grain bread or lettuce wraps instead of white bread for a healthier serving option. Control portion size since chicken salad is calorie-dense due to the mayo.
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, as long as it’s not served with regular bread or crackers.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Works well for keto when paired with lettuce wraps or eaten on its own.
- Customizable: Can be adjusted for dairy-free or egg-free diets by choosing alternative mayonnaise brands.
Recipe Variations You Can Try
One of the best parts about making chicken salad at home is how customizable it is. While Publix keeps their recipe simple, you can easily add your own twist depending on your taste, diet, or occasion. Here are some delicious variations to try:
Healthy Twist
Replace part (or all) of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for fewer calories and more protein. Mix in extra veggies like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for added crunch and fiber.
Sweet and Savory Blend
Add halved red grapes, apple chunks, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Sprinkle in chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch. This variation is great for parties or as a light summer meal.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or paprika for some heat. Jalapeños or banana peppers can also be mixed in for extra spice. Works well in wraps or as a dip for crackers.
Southern-Style
Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and a spoonful of sweet relish for a more traditional Southern flavor. This makes the salad richer and heartier.
Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly
Serve the chicken salad in lettuce cups or hollowed-out bell peppers instead of bread. Keep it simple with chicken, mayo, celery, and spices for a low-carb, high-protein meal.
Herb-Infused
Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Meal-Prep Friendly
Make a large batch and divide it into smaller containers. Alternate mix-ins each day (grapes one day, nuts the next) to keep it interesting without changing the base recipe.
Conclusion
In the end, Publix chicken salad is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. With tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and just the right crunch, it’s a recipe that’s both comforting and versatile. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you can easily recreate the deli favorite at home—whether you keep it classic or add your own twist. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQS
Publix Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook chicken however desired (I often poach in my steamer or bake). Cool and cut into large (about 1") cubes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine salt, basil, dill, lemon juice, white pepper, garlic and parsley with mayonnaise. Mix throughly.
- Stir celery, carrots, onion and chicken into mayonnaise mixture. Mix well.
- Cover and chill overnight or at least several hours before serving.