Black Southern Chicken Salad Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe
This black people chicken salad recipe is my go-to for rich, soul-warming flavors. It reminds me of everything comforting about a black southern chicken salad recipe—creamy, satisfying, and bursting with savory goodness. I’ve been calling it my best southern chicken salad recipe because it’s always the star at Sunday gatherings.

Servings
This chicken salad recipe black people style typically serves 4 to 6. Perfect for feeding the family or saving extras for lunch!
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15–20 minutes
Serves
4–6 people
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half sour cream)
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet pickles or relish (optional but adds a tang)
- 1/4 cup diced onions (red or white)
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (for color and crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Method
Step 1: Blend the Basics
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, onions, and bell peppers.
Step 2: Add Creaminess
Stir in the mayonnaise (and sour cream if using), garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Adjust & Taste
Add sweet pickles or relish for an extra soul food chicken salad recipe kick. Adjust seasonings as desired.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
Let it sit for at least 5 minutes in the fridge. Then serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or enjoy straight with crackers.
Tips & Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of Cajun seasoning for a twist on a soul food chicken salad recipe.
- Texture Boost:: Toss in chopped nuts or grapes if you’d like some sweetness.
- Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
Nutrition
- 300 calories
- 2g carbs
- 25g protein
- 20g fat
Diet & Allergen Info
Gluten-free (depending on how you serve it). Nut-free as written, though some variations add nuts. Dairy-free if you skip sour cream.
Storage Suggestions
Keep leftovers in the fridge up to three days. Stir before serving again. It reheats best if you warm the chicken separately, but I usually eat it cold!
FAQ
Can I make this more “summer-y”?
Absolutely! Try adding diced apples or grapes for fresh sweetness.
How do I give it an even richer taste?
A hint of smoked paprika or a bit of hot sauce amps up that southern flair.
Patricia J. Harris is a passionate recipe creator with a love for crafting delicious, easy-to-follow dishes. Her expertise in diverse cuisines brings bold, accessible flavors to home cooks. She loves experimenting with ingredients, blending tradition with creativity to make cooking easy and fun.