Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad (Classic & Creamy)

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor, just like the kind you’d find at a Southern church luncheon or on your grandmother’s table. Made with tender chicken, creamy dressing, and a perfect balance of crunch and seasoning, this recipe is ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or serving on a bed of crisp lettuce.

 Why This Southern Chicken Salad Is Special

What makes a Southern chicken salad different is its simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just good, honest food. The texture is creamy but not heavy, the flavor is savory with a slight tang, and every bite feels familiar and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for:

• Lunch or light dinner
• Picnics and potlucks
• Meal prep for the week
• Tea sandwiches or wraps

 Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2½ to 3 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
  (Rotisserie chicken works great, or boiled chicken breasts)

For the Dressing

• ¾ to 1 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional but traditional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

For Crunch & Flavor

• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (sweet or white)
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (or finely chopped dill pickles)

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Optional: a pinch of sugar for a true Southern touch

Optional Add-Ins (Traditional Variations)

• 1–2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• A dash of hot sauce

 How to Cook the Chicken (Best Method)

If you’re not using rotisserie chicken:

1. Place chicken breasts in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth.
2. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until cooked through.
4. Remove, let cool completely, then finely chop or shred.

Tip: Finely chopped chicken gives the most classic Southern texture.

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Make sure the chicken is completely cooled. Chop it finely for a smooth, spreadable salad.
2. Mix the Dressing
   In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Vegetables & Flavor
   Stir in celery, onion, and pickle relish. Mix well so everything is evenly coated.
4. Season Gently
   Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and a tiny pinch of sugar if using. Taste and adjust.
5. Combine with Chicken
   Add the chopped chicken to the bowl. Gently fold until the chicken is fully coated and creamy.
6. Chill for Best Flavor
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

 How to Serve Southern Chicken Salad

• On soft white bread or brioche buns
• With crackers for a quick snack
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves
• In a croissant for a classic Southern lunch
• Scooped onto tomato slices

 Tips for the Perfect Chicken Salad

• Always chill before serving—flavor improves with time
• Don’t overdo the mayonnaise; start small and add gradually
• Finely chopped ingredients make the salad smoother and more traditional
• Taste again after chilling and adjust seasoning if needed

 Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
• Keeps well for 3–4 days
• Do not freeze (mayonnaise does not freeze well)