Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
I’m going on my third week in a row making this southern chicken salad recipe! It’s light, refreshing, and loaded with flavor. If you love southern-inspired dishes (like a southern chicken stew recipe or a comfort-food twist on southern chicken spaghetti recipe), you’ll adore this creamy, savory chicken salad. Sometimes I even channel a southern smoked chicken salad recipe vibe by using smoked chicken—yum! This chicken salad recipe southern style brings people together and keeps everyone’s tummies happy.
Servings
This recipe typically feeds 4 hungry folks.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 min
Serves
4–6 people
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch)
- 1/3 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step 1: Gather & Prep
Cook or use leftover chicken, then shred or dice into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Mix Dressing
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold in the chicken, celery, and red onion. Stir until well coated.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
Step 5: Serve
Scoop onto toasted bread, serve over lettuce, or stuff into a wrap. Boom—done!
Tips & Variations
- To channel a southern style chicken salad recipe, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder.
- Chopped pickles or grapes can add a tangy or sweet twist.
- Want a smoky note? Use leftover smoked chicken from a barbecue for that southern smoked chicken salad recipe vibe.
- If you want something else for dinner, try a southern chicken stew recipe or southern chicken spaghetti recipe—both are hearty comfort foods!
Nutrition
Approximately 250 calories per serving, with around 20 g protein, 5 g carbs, and 15 g fat. (Values vary based on ingredients.)
Diet & Allergen Info
Contains eggs (in mayo) and is gluten-free if you serve it without bread. Swap mayo for a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it looks dry upon reheating or the next day, stir in a spoonful of mayo or yogurt.
FAQ
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! It cuts down on prep time and adds a great roasted flavor.
How do I make it spicy?
Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a quick, fiery kick.
