This Southern Style Chicken Salad is a creamy delight packed with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. It’s perfect for lunch or a picnic!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything, and you’re ready to serve. Pair it with some crackers, and it’s a hit every time. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. If you don’t have it, any cooked chicken will do, including leftover grilled or boiled chicken. Shredded is preferred for a nice texture.
Mayonnaise: The heart of this recipe! You could use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or even a vegan mayonnaise if you’re keeping it plant-based. I like to mix in a bit of mustard with the mayo for an extra zing!
Celery: Adds crunch and freshness. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with chopped cucumbers or bell peppers. They offer that same satisfying crunch without the celery flavor.
Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, try finely chopped red onion or shallots instead. Chives can work too for a more subtle taste.
Sweet Pickle Relish: For a hint of sweetness, but if you prefer less sweetness, dill relish works great too. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice for tang, which I really enjoy!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Chicken Salad Texture?
Getting the right texture in your chicken salad is crucial. Here’s how to do it:
- Chop or shred the chicken into smaller, uniform pieces. This ensures each bite has a great balance of chicken and other ingredients.
- Mix the mayonnaise and other ingredients gently. You want it well-combined but avoid mashing the chicken.
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting time helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way. Start with small amounts of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed!
How to Make Southern Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves
- Crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Style Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll also need to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let all the flavors come together. Altogether, it’s a quick and tasty dish that you can whip up easily!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add in the chopped chicken, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, chopped green onions, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard (if you like a little tang), and onion powder. Give it a good mix with a spoon until everything is well combined and coated with the creamy mayonnaise.
2. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to make it your own! Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later if you’d like it a bit spicier. Give it another gentle mix to distribute the seasoning evenly.
3. Chill and Let the Flavors Meld:
Once you’re happy with the seasoning, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad taste even better.
4. Serve with Style:
When you’re ready to serve, lay out some fresh lettuce leaves on a big platter. Use a spoon to heap the chicken salad onto the lettuce. This not only makes for a pretty presentation but also adds a nice crunch to every bite!
5. Add Crackers and Enjoy!
Don’t forget the crackers on the side! They add that perfect crunchy element to your chicken salad. Serve it all up and enjoy your tasty Southern Style Chicken Salad with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as grilled, baked, or poached chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
How Long Can I Store This Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute. Ensure you still have a nice balance of flavors by adjusting the seasoning and other ingredients as needed!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. If using Greek yogurt, you might want to add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor!
