Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad – Creamy & Flavorful

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless classic that brings together the best flavors of tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and a variety of crunchy vegetables. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a picnic snack, or as a filling for sandwiches. What sets this Southern chicken salad apart is its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. It’s rich and creamy, with just the right balance of tanginess and crunch. I tried this recipe with a bit of Dijon mustard for an added kick, and it worked perfectly without overpowering the traditional flavors. Whether you serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers, this salad is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked Chicken

Cooked chicken is the main ingredient of this salad, and it’s essential to use tender, juicy chicken. You can either use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or poach fresh chicken breasts. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. The chicken should be shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces, which allows the creamy dressing to coat it evenly.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is what gives the chicken salad its signature creamy texture. It’s also the base of the dressing. You can use full-fat mayo for a richer flavor, or opt for a lighter version if you prefer. Some people even use Greek yogurt as a substitute for part of the mayo, which adds a tangy flavor and makes the salad slightly lighter.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard is optional, but it adds a mild, tangy depth to the salad. It complements the creamy mayo and adds a bit of complexity to the flavor. If you prefer a more traditional taste, you can omit the mustard or substitute it with a little yellow mustard.

Celery

Celery provides a refreshing crunch and slight bitterness to the salad, balancing the richness of the mayo. Chop the celery into small pieces so it blends well with the chicken. It’s a must-have ingredient for that classic chicken salad crunch.

Onion

Onion adds another layer of flavor with its subtle sharpness. I prefer using red onion for a slightly milder taste, but you can use yellow or white onion if you like a stronger flavor. The onion should be finely diced to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

Pickles

Pickles are often used in Southern chicken salad to add a briny, tangy contrast to the creaminess. You can use dill pickles for a sharp, sour flavor or bread-and-butter pickles for a slightly sweet version. Finely chop them so they mix well with the other ingredients.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the salad and enhancing the flavors. Be sure to taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

If you like, you can add a handful of fresh parsley or dill to the salad. These fresh herbs bring a burst of color and additional flavor, though they are completely optional. Dill pairs particularly well with chicken salad, adding an aromatic touch.

Directions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   If you haven’t already, cook the chicken. Poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts in simmering water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2. Mix the Dressing:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more mustard for tang or more mayo for creaminess.
3. Add the Vegetables:
   Finely chop the celery, onion, and pickles, then add them to the bowl with the dressing. Stir them in gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
4. Combine with Chicken:
   Add the chopped or shredded chicken to the bowl and stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve:
   Serve your Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as it sits, so it’s perfect for making ahead. This dish is best served cold and does not need reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Add Fruit
For a sweet contrast, try adding grapes or apples to the salad. These fruits provide a burst of natural sweetness and a fresh texture that complements the savory elements of the chicken and mayo.

Spicy Kick
If you like a bit of heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This will give your Southern chicken salad a spicy twist that’s perfect for heat lovers.

Use Greek Yogurt
For a lighter version, substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt. It still provides creaminess but with fewer calories, and the tangy flavor of the yogurt pairs wonderfully with the chicken and dressing.

Add Nuts
For extra crunch, you can add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the salad. These nuts complement the creamy texture of the dressing and add another layer of flavor.

Herb Variations
Switch up the herbs to match your taste. Try basil, tarragon, or chives for a fresh, aromatic finish to your chicken salad. Each herb will provide a slightly different flavor, so experiment to find your favorite.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Approximate values per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	4 g
Fat	25 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	800 mg

Expert Tips & Customizations

Balance the Creaminess
If you like your chicken salad a little lighter, you can replace part of the mayonnaise with low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt. This reduces the richness while still providing that creamy texture.

Don’t Overwork the Chicken
When shredding or chopping the chicken, be gentle. Over-mixing the chicken can lead to a dry, rubbery texture, so treat it carefully for the best result.

Add a Fresh Twist with Herbs
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can make a huge difference in flavor. A small handful of chopped fresh herbs goes a long way in elevating your chicken salad and giving it a vibrant, fresh taste.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This chicken salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Can I make it without pickles?

Yes, you can omit the pickles if you prefer a more subtle flavor, or replace them with something like chopped cucumbers or capers for a different twist.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for chicken salad. Just shred or chop the meat and mix it into the dressing with your veggies.

How can I make this more flavorful?

If you want more flavor, add fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for some acidity. You can also try a little bit of mustard for a tangy kick.

How long does this chicken salad last?

It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even ham for a delicious variation on this Southern classic.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this chicken salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure you’re using gluten-free bread or crackers if you plan to serve it on those.

Can I make this salad with a dairy-free dressing?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayo or yogurt alternative to make it dairy-free. This will still give you a creamy texture without the dairy.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a classic comfort dish that brings together creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in the perfect balance. Whether you serve it on a sandwich, with crackers, or as a salad, it’s a versatile, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to satisfy. With plenty of options for customizations, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste, making it a staple in your meal rotation.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!