There are few things as comforting and satisfying as a truly classic chicken salad. But when you add that authentic Southern flair? You've got a recipe for pure deliciousness! This Old Southern Chicken Salad isn't just a crowd-pleaser; it's also packed with a whopping 25 grams of protein per serving, making it a fantastic choice for a nutritious and filling meal.
Forget bland, boring chicken salads. Our recipe embraces the rich, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors that define Southern comfort food. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick lunch, a family picnic, or a delicious potluck contribution. Let's dive into how you can bring this Southern staple to your table!
Why You'll Fall in Love with This Old Southern Chicken Salad
- Protein-Packed: With 25g of protein per serving, it's a fantastic way to stay full and energized.
- Creamy & Flavorful: The perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy.
- Quick & Easy: If you have cooked chicken on hand, this recipe comes together in minutes.
- Versatile: Enjoy it in sandwiches, on crackers, in lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual lunches to elegant brunches, it always fits.
The Secret to Authentic Southern Flavor
Every region has its chicken salad style, but Southern chicken salad has a special place in our hearts. The key lies in a few distinct ingredients:
Duke's Mayonnaise
Many Southern cooks swear by Duke's Mayonnaise. Its unique tangy flavor and rich, creamy texture are often considered essential for authentic Southern dishes. While you can use your favorite mayonnaise, Duke's truly takes it to the next level.
Sweet Pickle Relish & Pickle Juice
The addition of sweet pickle relish provides a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken. A splash of pickle juice brightens the whole salad and adds an extra layer of tangy depth.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
While not universally present in all chicken salad recipes, hard-boiled eggs are a common and beloved addition in Southern versions, adding richness and texture. Make sure you chop them finely for an even distribution.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and reliance on pantry staples.
How to Make Classic Southern Chicken Salad
This recipe is incredibly straightforward. With your ingredients prepped, you're just a few stirs away from a delicious meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- Chill Time is Crucial: While you can eat it immediately, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid mashing the chicken too much, especially if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or even a little more pickle juice to your preference.
- Quality Chicken: Use high-quality cooked chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut if you're short on time. For chopping celery and eggs precisely, a quality chef's knife makes a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken salad can be enjoyed in so many ways:
- Classic Sandwiches: Serve on toasted white bread, croissants, or brioche buns.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, scoop into crisp lettuce cups.
- With Crackers: A perfect appetizer or snack.
- On a Bed of Greens: Turn it into a light and refreshing salad.
- Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados: An elegant presentation for a luncheon.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your Old Southern Chicken Salad with these delicious additions:
- Fruity Twist: Add a handful of red grapes or chopped apples for sweetness and crunch.
- Nutty Addition: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a wonderful texture.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh dill, parsley, or chives can brighten the flavors.
- A Hint of Spice: A tiny dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of paprika can add a subtle kick.
Whether you're packing it for a picnic, making a simple weeknight dinner, or preparing for a gathering, this Old Southern Chicken Salad will quickly become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Its creamy texture, delightful flavor, and satisfying protein content make it an all-around winner. Enjoy!
FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Old Southern Chicken Salad?
For the best Old Southern Chicken Salad, use cooked chicken breast that has been shredded or finely diced. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut, or you can boil or bake chicken breasts specifically for this recipe. Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before mixing.
How long does Southern Chicken Salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Old Southern Chicken Salad typically lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always ensure it's kept chilled and never left at room temperature for more than two hours.
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Old Southern Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What gives Southern Chicken Salad its distinctive flavor?
The signature flavor of Southern Chicken Salad often comes from a combination of rich, creamy mayonnaise (like Duke's), the tangy sweetness of sweet pickle relish, and a touch of pickle juice. Some recipes also include hard-boiled eggs for added richness and texture.
Classic Old Southern Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A creamy, tangy, and protein-packed Old Southern Chicken Salad recipe, perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
3 tablespoons finely chopped celery
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s recommended)
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon pickle juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
Step 2: Add the sweet pickle relish, mayonnaise, onion powder, and pickle juice to the bowl.
Step 3: Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, especially if you prefer a chunkier chicken salad.
Step 4: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Step 5: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, use Duke's mayonnaise. This salad is best made ahead of time and chilled for a few hours to allow the flavors to deepen. Serve on toasted bread, croissants, or in fresh lettuce cups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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