Introduction to Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
Southern Chicken Salad is a classic comfort dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s a recipe passed down through generations, known for its simple ingredients and rich taste. Whether served on bread, with crackers, or as a light side, it fits any occasion. This guide will show you how to prepare it step by step, with tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it your own.
What is Southern Chicken Salad?
Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless recipe that blends tender chicken with creamy mayonnaise, crunchy vegetables, and classic seasonings. Unlike some versions of chicken salad, the Southern style often includes hard-boiled eggs for extra richness and a touch of pickle relish or mustard for tangy flavor.
This dish has long been a staple in Southern kitchens, served at church gatherings, family picnics, and holiday tables. Its charm lies in its balance—creamy yet crunchy, hearty yet refreshing. Each family may have its own variation, but the heart of the recipe remains the same: simple ingredients combined in a way that feels comforting and familiar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Chicken Salad is more than just a quick meal—it’s a dish that fits every occasion. Here’s why it’s worth making:
- Simple and Affordable: Made with basic pantry and fridge staples like chicken, mayonnaise, and celery. No complicated ingredients are required.
- Quick to Prepare: With pre-cooked or leftover chicken, this recipe comes together in minutes. Perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute meals.
- Rich in Flavor: Creamy mayo, crunchy veggies, and a hint of tang from pickles or relish create the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- Customizable: Add grapes, nuts, or different seasonings to make it your own. It can be as classic or creative as you like.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Serve it in sandwiches for lunch, with crackers as a snack, or in lettuce cups for a lighter option.
- Family Favorite: It’s a recipe that appeals to all ages, making it a reliable choice for gatherings or meal prep.
Key Ingredients for Southern Chicken Salad
The beauty of Southern Chicken Salad lies in its simplicity. A few basic ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Below are the essentials, along with popular add-ins and substitutions.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken: Traditionally, tender chicken breast is used. You can poach, roast, or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. Shredded or diced works best.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds the salad. Southern-style chicken salad is known for its richness, so mayonnaise is a must.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: A classic Southern touch that adds protein and a smooth, hearty texture.
- Celery: Provides freshness and crunch, balancing out the creaminess.
- Sweet Pickle Relish or Dill Pickles: Adds a tangy-sweet flavor that makes this version distinctively Southern.
- Seasonings: Simple salt, black pepper, and sometimes a touch of mustard or onion powder for depth.
Optional Add-Ins
- Grapes: Fresh, halved grapes add a juicy sweetness.
- Pecans or Walnuts: A Southern favorite for crunch and nutty flavor.
- Onion: Finely chopped red or green onion for a mild kick.
- Herbs: Parsley, dill, or chives for freshness.
Healthy Substitutions
Swap part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Use light mayo to reduce calories without losing creaminess. Choose skinless chicken breast for leaner protein.
How to Prepare the Chicken
The foundation of a great Southern Chicken Salad is perfectly cooked chicken. The texture and flavor depend on how you prepare it. Here are the best methods to use:
Poaching (Traditional Method)
Place chicken breasts in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional aromatics like onion, celery, or bay leaf. Simmer gently (don’t boil) for about 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Let it cool, then shred or dice.
Why this works: Poaching keeps the chicken tender and moist, which blends beautifully into the creamy salad.
Roasting
Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked. Allow to cool, then dice or shred.
Why this works: Roasting brings out deeper flavor and a slightly firmer texture.
Using Rotisserie or Leftover Chicken
Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a quick, flavorful shortcut. Remove the skin and shred the meat. Leftover baked or grilled chicken also works well.
Why this works: It saves time without sacrificing taste, perfect for busy days.
Tips for Best Results
Always let the chicken cool before mixing into the salad—this prevents the mayonnaise from separating. Shredded chicken gives a softer, creamier salad, while diced chicken makes it chunkier. Choose the texture you prefer. Cook extra chicken and freeze portions, so you’re always ready to make a quick batch of chicken salad.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Southern Chicken Salad
Once your chicken is cooked and cooled, putting the salad together is quick and easy. Follow these steps for the perfect Southern-style chicken salad.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Eggs
Shred or dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs. Place both in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Add-Ins
Dice celery for crunch. Finely chop onions or herbs if using. Prepare optional add-ins like grapes (halved) or pecans (chopped).
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, pickle relish (or chopped pickles), mustard (optional), salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust—add more mayo for creaminess, or more relish for tang.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the chicken, eggs, and vegetables. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Quick Tips for Success
If you prefer a creamier salad, mash some of the hard-boiled egg yolks into the mayo before mixing. For extra tang, add a splash of lemon juice. Always use a gentle hand when stirring to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.
Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
Southern Chicken Salad is a flexible recipe, and a few small changes can completely transform the flavor. Whether you like it classic, sweet, or with a little crunch, here are some ideas to make it your own.
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor, but don’t hesitate to use rotisserie chicken when short on time. Always let ingredients cool before mixing to keep the salad creamy and smooth. Taste as you go—season lightly at first, then adjust with salt, pepper, or relish. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Popular Variations
- Classic Southern Style: Keep it simple with chicken, mayo, eggs, celery, and pickle relish.
- Sweet and Fruity: Add halved grapes, chopped apples, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Zesty Twist: Add Dijon mustard, a dash of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Herbed Version: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can give a refreshing flavor.
Healthy Substitutions
Swap some (or all) of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing. Use light mayonnaise to cut down on calories while keeping the creamy texture. Replace crackers or bread with lettuce wraps for a low-carb serving option. Use skinless chicken breast for lean protein, or try canned chicken for a budget-friendly shortcut.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about Southern Chicken Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it in countless ways, whether you’re serving a family meal, packing lunch, or preparing for a gathering. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Classic Options
- Sandwiches: Spoon the chicken salad onto soft white bread or buttery croissants for a traditional Southern favorite. Add lettuce for freshness.
- Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers or saltines for a quick snack or appetizer.
- Salad Plates: Scoop onto a bed of crisp lettuce and garnish with tomato slices for a light and refreshing meal.
Modern Twists
- Lettuce Wraps: Use romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
- Wraps and Pitas: Fill tortillas or pita pockets with chicken salad, greens, and a few extras like cucumber or avocado.
- Meal Prep Bowls: Pair with quinoa, brown rice, or roasted vegetables for a balanced, make-ahead lunch.
Entertaining Ideas
- Party Appetizers: Serve chicken salad in mini phyllo cups, hollowed-out tomatoes, or slider buns for finger food.
- Picnic Favorite: Pack it in a container with crackers, fruit, and cheese for an easy outdoor meal.
- Potluck Dish: A large bowl of chicken salad is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Southern Chicken Salad keeps well, which makes it a great dish to prepare ahead of time for quick meals or entertaining. Follow these tips to ensure freshness and flavor:
Storing Leftovers
Place chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately after preparing. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when stored properly. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended because mayonnaise tends to separate when thawed, changing the texture. If you must freeze, do so before adding the mayo-based dressing. Add the dressing only after thawing.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Cook and shred the chicken up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it separately. Chop vegetables (like celery and onion) ahead of time and keep them in sealed containers. Mix everything together with the dressing on the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste.
Meal Prep Tips
Portion chicken salad into single-serving containers for quick grab-and-go lunches. Keep bread, crackers, or lettuce wraps separate until ready to eat to prevent sogginess. For picnics or potlucks, store the salad in a chilled cooler and serve it cold for both flavor and safety.
Nutrition Information
Southern Chicken Salad is hearty, flavorful, and provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats. The exact nutrition will vary depending on portion size, ingredients, and add-ins, but here’s a general breakdown for a 1-cup serving (about 200–220g) made with chicken breast, mayonnaise, celery, eggs, and pickle relish:
- Calories: ~350–400
- Protein: 25–28g
- Fat: 24–28g
- Carbohydrates: 3–5g
- Fiber: <1g
- Sugars: 1–2g
Nutritional Highlights
- High in Protein: Chicken and eggs provide lean protein, which helps keep you full and energized.
- Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise contributes fat for creaminess, but you can lighten it by using part Greek yogurt or light mayo.
- Low in Carbs: Naturally low-carb, especially if served in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
- Customizable for Diets: Easily adaptable for keto, low-carb, or high-protein meal plans.
Healthier Swaps
Replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to cut fat and add probiotics. Use light mayonnaise for fewer calories without sacrificing creaminess. Add more vegetables (celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers) for extra crunch and fiber. Serve with whole-grain bread or crackers for added fiber and nutrients.
Conclusion
Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless favorite that brings together simple ingredients and big flavor in every bite. It’s creamy, satisfying, and adaptable to any occasion—whether you’re making a quick weekday lunch or a dish to share at a gathering. With its balance of tradition and flexibility, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQS
Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a pan with aluminum foil. Set aside.
- Brush the chicken very lightly with a little olive oil.
- 1½ pounds chicken breast,1-2 teaspoons olive oil (for brushing chicken)
- To season the chicken, mix together Old Bay Seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery salt.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seafood seasoning,½ teaspoon garlic powder,½ teaspoon onion powder,¼ teaspoon celery salt
- Sprinkle chicken generously with seasoning on top and bottom.
- Place chicken on prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. (You may need more or less time depending on the thickness of your chicken)
- Once the chicken is done, let it cool and then dice it up into small chunks and place in a large bowl.
- Add diced celery, diced onions, diced eggs, sweet relish, and dill weed to the large bowl. Stir to combine.
- ½ cup celery (finely diced),½ cup onions (finely diced),5 hard-boiled eggs, chopped,2 tablespoons sweet relish,¼ teaspoon dill weed
- Next, stir in the mayonnaise a little at a time until your desired creaminess is reached.
- ¾ cup Duke's mayonnaise
- Stir in parsley and black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley,fresh cracked black pepper
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. (see note)
- salt, pepper, +extra seasonings, if desired
- Cover and refrigerate until chilled. (about 1 hour)
- Stir before serving. Serve with crackers or on buttered croissants.