Southern Style Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s a classic recipe that features tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a hint of sweetness from pickle relish. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or looking for a quick lunch, this chicken salad is versatile and delicious.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for many reasons. It’s simple to prepare, packs a punch of flavor, and is a crowd-pleaser. The Southern twist adds a unique touch, making it different from your typical chicken salad. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping and can be enjoyed in various ways, from sandwiches to salads.
How to Make Southern Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 – 2 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, poached, cooled and diced into 2″ cubes (see poaching instructions in text above)
- 2 large stalks of celery, cut into 2″ pieces
- 1/2 medium sweet onion, cut into 2″ pieces
- 1/4 cup pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- 1/2 – 3/4 cup mayonnaise made with olive oil
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tsp. celery salt
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a 6-quart food processor or larger fitted with a blade, add all ingredients.
- Process for several seconds, then scrape down the sides.
- Process again until you reach your desired consistency.
- Store covered in the refrigerator.
How to Serve Southern Style Chicken Salad
You can serve this chicken salad in various ways. Spread it on bread for a tasty sandwich, serve it on crackers as a snack, or enjoy it over a bed of greens for a hearty salad. It pairs well with chips, pickles, or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Southern Style Chicken Salad
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days. If you notice the salad becoming watery, stir well before serving to regain its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Southern Style Chicken Salad
- For extra flavor, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or apples.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on how creamy you want your salad to be.
Variation
You can switch up this recipe by adding different ingredients. Some popular variations include grapes for sweetness, bacon for crunch, or avocado for a creamy texture. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time saver! Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients.
2. How long does this chicken salad keep in the fridge?
Southern Style Chicken Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
3. Can I freeze the chicken salad?
It is not recommended to freeze chicken salad because the mayonnaise can separate and change texture when thawed.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty Southern Style Chicken Salad!
Southern Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, poached, cooled and diced into 2″ cubes See poaching instructions in text above
- 2 large stalks celery, cut into 2″ pieces
- ½ medium sweet onion, cut into 2″ pieces
- ¼ cup pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- ½ – ¾ cup mayonnaise made with olive oil Adjust for desired creaminess
- 2 pieces hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tsp celery salt
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a 6-quart food processor or larger fitted with a blade, add all ingredients.
- Process for several seconds, then scrape down the sides.
- Process again until you reach your desired consistency.
- Store covered in the refrigerator.
