Introduction
Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless comfort dish that has been served at church luncheons, family reunions, baby showers, and Sunday dinners for generations. Creamy, simple, and full of familiar flavors, this classic recipe focuses on tender chicken, crisp celery, and just the right amount of seasoning—all brought together with a rich, mayonnaise-based dressing.
What sets Southern chicken salad apart from modern variations is its simplicity. There are no trendy add-ins or overpowering flavors—just honest ingredients prepared the way Grandma made them. The chicken is finely chopped or shredded, the texture is soft yet slightly crunchy, and the flavor is mild, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
This chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it on white bread, buttery croissants, crackers, or lettuce leaves. It works just as well for casual lunches as it does for elegant gatherings. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for busy schedules and entertaining.
If you’re craving a nostalgic, no-fuss recipe that feels like home, Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is exactly what you need.
Ingredients
4 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup mayonnaise
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional but traditional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
Optional: pinch of sugar (very Southern touch)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and cooled. Chop or shred it finely for a classic Southern texture—avoid large chunks.
Step 2: Chop the Add-Ins
Finely dice the celery and chop the hard-boiled eggs. Keep pieces small for an even, creamy consistency throughout the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional sugar. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the chicken, celery, eggs, and pickle relish to the bowl. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
Variations
Grape Chicken Salad: Add halved seedless grapes for sweetness.
Nutty Southern Style: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts.
Mustard Touch: Add ½ teaspoon yellow mustard for tang.
Lightened Version: Replace half the mayo with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Onion Lover’s Version: Add finely minced sweet onion.
Cooking Notes
Use rotisserie or boiled chicken for best flavor.
Finely chopped ingredients create the classic Southern texture.
Chill time is essential for proper flavor development.
Adjust mayonnaise gradually to avoid an overly wet salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad on white sandwich bread, toasted croissants, or with buttery crackers. It’s also delicious scooped onto lettuce leaves for a lighter option. Pair with iced tea, potato chips, or fresh fruit for a true Southern-style meal.
Tips
Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling.
Use Duke’s or similar Southern-style mayonnaise for authenticity.
Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Stir gently before serving to refresh texture.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
0 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 520mg
FAQs
What chicken works best for Southern chicken salad?
Boiled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work well—just avoid heavily seasoned meat.
Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a few hours ahead or the night before.
How long does chicken salad last?
Stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Is pickle relish traditional?
Yes, many Southern recipes include a small amount for sweetness and tang.
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