This Easy Southern Style Chicken Salad is creamy, tasty, and perfect for sandwiches or just by itself. With tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a hint of sweetness, it hits the spot!
Honestly, it’s a go-to dish for picnics or lunch. I love using leftover chicken to whip it up quickly. Who doesn’t enjoy a fresh scoop of chicken salad on a sunny day? ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or boil your chicken breast. If you’re looking for a healthier option, poached chicken works well too. Leftover turkey can be a great substitute for chicken!
Mayonnaise: This ingredient makes the salad creamy. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. I often mix half mayonnaise and half yogurt for a tangy twist.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and freshness. If you’re not a fan, try diced apples or grapes for a sweet crunch instead. You can also opt for chopped bell peppers for a different taste!
Sweet Pickle Relish: The sweetness balances the flavors. If you’d like a less sweet option, finely chopped dill pickles or dill relish can work nicely, especially if you enjoy a tangy flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Well-Mixed?
Getting the chicken salad well-mixed is important for balanced flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large mixing bowl to give yourself enough space.
- Add your mayonnaise and other seasonings before the chicken. This helps distribute the flavors better.
- Use two forks or a spatula to gently fold the chicken in with the mayo mixture. Go slow to keep that lovely chicken texture.
- Taste test! Adjust seasonings before chilling to ensure it has the right flavor for you.
Chilling the salad allows the flavors to mellow, so don’t skip that step. Enjoy your perfect southern chicken salad as a delightful meal option!
Easy Southern Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breast)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
- Crackers or bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick lunch or picnic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, start by mixing the chopped cooked chicken, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, and sweet pickle relish. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to bring everything together smoothly.
2. Season It Up:
Add in the yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Stir everything together well until it’s all fully mixed. This is the perfect time to taste the mix, adjusting the seasoning to your liking.
3. Chill It Down:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all those delicious flavors meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
4. Serve It Fresh:
When you’re ready to serve the chicken salad, take it out of the fridge. Arrange a few lettuce leaves on a serving plate. Spoon the chicken salad generously on top of the lettuce. For a final touch, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor!
5. Enjoy!
Serve the chicken salad chilled with your choice of crackers or bread, making it a perfect Southern-style meal. Dig in and enjoy the creamy goodness!
This chicken salad is not only easy to make, but it also packs a delightful combination of flavors and textures. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making each batch a little different and delicious every time! Perfect for sunny picnics or cozy dinners!
FAQ for Easy Southern Style Chicken Salad
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just make sure to remove the skin and shred the meat before adding it to your salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again, as some separation may occur.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Making it ahead of time is actually recommended. Prepare the chicken salad and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use a mixture of equal parts Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a balanced taste and texture.
