I love recipes that feel like home, and this old-fashioned Southern chicken salad is exactly that. I keep it creamy, simple, and full of classic flavor, just the way I remember it being served at family gatherings. It is comforting, easy to prepare, and perfect for everyday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is quick to make, uses basic pantry ingredients, and always turns out satisfying. I like how flexible it is, whether I serve it for lunch, a light dinner, or a gathering. It also tastes even better after chilling, which makes it great for preparing ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup celery, finely diced
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I place the chopped chicken into a large bowl and add the celery, sweet pickle relish, and chopped eggs. I gently stir everything together until evenly combined. I add the mayonnaise and mix until the salad becomes creamy and well blended. I season with onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir again. I cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 servings from this recipe.
Preparation takes me around 15 minutes, with no additional cooking time if the chicken and eggs are already cooked. I prefer chilling it for 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
I sometimes replace 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise with sour cream for a slightly tangy flavor. When I want sweetness, I add 1/2 cup of halved seedless grapes or dried cranberries. For extra crunch, I like adding 1/4 cup of chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds. I occasionally use poppy seeds instead of onion powder for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
I store this chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since it is meant to be served cold, I never reheat it. I simply stir it well before serving if it has been chilled for a while.
FAQs
Can I use dark meat chicken for this recipe?
I often use dark meat because it stays moist and adds extra flavor.
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
I like making it a day in advance since the flavor improves after chilling.
What can I serve with chicken salad?
I usually serve it on sandwiches, with crackers, or over fresh greens.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
I always taste it before serving and adjust salt or pepper to my preference.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
I do not recommend freezing it, as the texture changes once thawed.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this old-fashioned Southern chicken salad because it is simple, comforting, and reliable. It reminds me of classic homemade meals and proves that traditional recipes never lose their charm.
This Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is creamy, comforting, and full of nostalgic flavor. Made with tender chicken, mayonnaise, sweet relish, and eggs, it’s a simple and satisfying dish perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or salads.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup celery, finely diced
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Place the chopped or shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Add the celery, sweet pickle relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Gently mix to combine.
Add the mayonnaise and stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Season with onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir again to incorporate the seasonings.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and texture.
