This Easy Southern Style Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo with a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for a light lunch or picnic!
You can serve it in a sandwich, on a bed of lettuce, or with crackers. I love making extra so I can enjoy it for days! It’s a delightful dish that always hits the spot! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Any cooked chicken works here! I often use rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. You could also use leftover chicken from other meals!
Mayonnaise: While mayo is a classic choice, Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. It adds creaminess without extra calories. Plus, you can mix half mayo and half yogurt for a balanced flavor.
Sweet Pickle Relish: If you prefer less sweetness, try dill pickle relish instead. Or, you can finely chop pickles to control the amount of sweetness. It still adds a nice crunch!
Celery: For extra crunch, consider adding apples or grapes. They bring a fruity flavor and work well with the salad. If you don’t have celery, chopped bell peppers can also work.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Flavorful?
The key to a tasty chicken salad is seasoning and allowing it to chill. Here’s how:
- Mix your ingredients well; this ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Don’t skip the chilling—resting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld perfectly.
- Taste before serving! You can always adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a dash of lemon juice for brightness.
With these tips, your Southern style chicken salad will be a hit every time! 🥗
How to Make Easy Southern Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
- Crackers or bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to chill. In total, you can expect about 45 minutes before you’re ready to serve this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked chicken breast, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped celery, and onion if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed.
2. Add the Tangy Flavor:
If you like a bit of a tangy kick, add in the Dijon mustard. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
3. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time to season your salad! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, and stir again. Give it a taste to make sure it’s just right for you.
4. Chill for Best Flavor:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is important as it allows the flavors to develop and mingle together.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop a generous amount of chicken salad onto a fresh lettuce leaf. Enjoy it on its own, or serve it with your favorite crackers or bread as a delicious sandwich!
6. Savor the Flavor:
Enjoy your creamy and delightful Southern style chicken salad. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or even as a snack!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or any cooked chicken will work perfectly. Just ensure it’s shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
How Can I Make This Chicken Salad Healthier?
You can lighten it up by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or using a mix of both! Additionally, adding more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers will boost the nutritional content.
How Long Will This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your chicken salad can stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh its texture!
Can I Freeze Chicken Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad, as the mayonnaise can separate and change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days!
