Name: Southern Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon celery salt; 1/2 cup celery (finely diced); 1/4 cup onion (finely diced); 3 hard-boiled eggs (chopped); 1 tablespoon sweet relish; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Growing up in the South, I was always surrounded by family gatherings where a delicious Southern Chicken Salad was a staple on the table. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a blend of nostalgia, love, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I can still remember the warm summer days when my grandmother would whip up her signature chicken salad, filling the kitchen with the fragrant smell of freshly chopped celery and the creamy goodness of mayonnaise. It was the highlight of our picnics and a go-to for potlucks. Whether served on a bed of crisp lettuce or slathered between two slices of bread, the Southern Chicken Salad always brought smiles to everyone’s faces. Today, this dish continues to be one of my favorites, reminding me of those cherished moments and the laughter we shared. If you’re looking for a recipe that embodies comfort and tradition, you’ve come to the right place!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Blender, Cutting Board, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Southern Chicken Salad Shines

It’s a Classic Dish

There’s something undeniably special about a classic Southern Chicken Salad. It has stood the test of time, making appearances at family reunions, summer picnics, and holiday gatherings. Its simplicity and heartwarming flavors resonate with everyone, making it a beloved dish for many generations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad isn’t just for lunch; it shines during special occasions too! Whether you’re hosting a bridal shower or a casual family gathering, the Southern Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can present it elegantly in a fancy bowl or simply serve it on a sandwich for a quick lunch. Regardless of the setting, it’s sure to impress.

Customization Galore

One of my favorite aspects of making Southern Chicken Salad is the room for customization. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste—adding nuts for crunch, mixing in grapes for sweetness, or even spicing it up with a dash of hot sauce. Each version can have its charm, making it a dish that never gets old.

Health Conscious and Satisfying

It’s easy to make a healthier version of Southern Chicken Salad without sacrificing flavor. Opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or reduce the amount of dressing to keep it lighter. This way, you can still indulge while maintaining a balanced diet.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. With a few simple steps, you can whip up a delightful Southern Chicken Salad in no time, making it a stress-free option for any meal.

Great for Meal Prepping

This salad not only tastes great but also holds up well in the fridge. Making a large batch on a Sunday means you have a delicious meal ready for the week ahead. Just pack it up for lunches or quick dinners, and you’re set!

Main Ingredients for Southern Chicken Salad

Creating a delightful Southern Chicken Salad revolves around the harmony of fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, bringing texture and flavor together to create a wholesome dish. From the protein-packed chicken to the crunchy celery and the creamy mayonnaise, every bite is a delightful combination that offers both satisfaction and comfort.

1 pound chicken breast: The star of the dish, chicken breast is cooked to perfection, providing a hearty base for the salad.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This is used to brush the chicken before cooking, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon celery salt: This seasoning enhances the taste of the celery and adds depth to the dish.
1/2 cup celery, finely diced: It offers a lovely crunch and fresh flavor, making the salad lively.
1/4 cup onion, finely diced: The addition of onion gives the salad a savory kick that balances its creaminess.
3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped: These add richness and creaminess, making the dish even more satisfying.
1 tablespoon sweet relish: A touch of sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile, making it irresistible.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creaminess that binds everything together, giving the salad its signature texture.
1 tablespoon dried parsley: This not only adds color but also a hint of earthiness to the salad.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

Step by Step Guide for Southern Chicken Salad

Making a Southern Chicken Salad is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Let’s walk through the steps together as we bring this classic dish to life. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering salad ready to enjoy!

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. It’s essential to get the oven ready, so your chicken cooks evenly. This temperature is ideal for baking chicken, ensuring it remains juicy.
Next, brush the chicken lightly with vegetable oil. This will help keep the meat moist as it cooks and adds a bit of flavor. You can use a pastry brush or even your hands to get an even coating.
Now, season the chicken with garlic powder and celery salt. Make sure to sprinkle it evenly over the surface to enhance the flavor of your meat.
Once seasoned, place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake it for 25 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, becoming tender and ready for chopping.
When the chicken is fully cooked, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Handling hot chicken can be tricky, so let it rest a bit before cutting it into small pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, celery, onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and sweet relish. This combination of ingredients will create a colorful and inviting salad.
Add the mayonnaise and dried parsley to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that each ingredient is coated with the creamy dressing.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go—adjust the seasoning to your preference!
Finally, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish.
When ready to serve, enjoy your Southern Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or on its own. No matter how you serve it, it’s bound to be a hit!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and vegetables. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and texture of your salad.
Chill Time is Key: Allowing the salad to chill not only enhances the flavors but also improves the texture, making it more enjoyable.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should remain fresh for up to three days.

Helpful Notes about Southern Chicken Salad

The beauty of Southern Chicken Salad lies in its versatility. Here are some tips to enhance your experience with this dish:

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. This way, your salad stays fresh and delicious.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the ingredients separately if you plan to make a large batch. Just assemble when ready to serve.
Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful crunch alongside your salad.
Seasonal Ingredients: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables to keep the recipe fresh and exciting.
Variations: Try adding ingredients like grapes or apples for a sweet twist, or nuts for added crunch.

Serve This Southern Chicken Salad With

Crusty Bread: It pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh, crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the salad.
Crisp Lettuce: Serve it on a bed of fresh romaine or iceberg lettuce for a refreshing bite.
Pickles: A side of pickles adds tanginess that complements the creaminess of the salad.
Chips: Crispy potato chips or pita chips make for a delightful crunch alongside the salad.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings a sweet balance to the savory flavors of the salad.
Potato Salad: Serve it as part of a picnic spread along with a classic potato salad for a comforting meal.

FAQ

The Southern Chicken Salad often includes unique ingredients like sweet relish and hard-boiled eggs, which add a special sweetness and creaminess. This classic dish typically features a combination of fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. The emphasis on flavor and texture is what sets it apart from other versions of chicken salad, often resulting in a richer and more satisfying experience.

Absolutely! In fact, making Southern Chicken Salad ahead of time is often encouraged. Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing its overall taste. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or gatherings, as it can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Southern Chicken Salad pairs perfectly with various sides. You can serve it on a bed of crisp lettuce or in a sandwich with crusty bread. Adding a side of crispy potato chips, a refreshing fruit salad, or even a classic potato salad complements it well. For a lighter meal, consider fresh vegetable sticks or a light soup.

Yes, Southern Chicken Salad is an excellent option for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator and retains its flavor for several days. Preparing a large batch allows you to have quick and easy lunches or snacks throughout the week. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

The Southern Chicken Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished tradition that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy texture combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables creates a delightful dish that everyone will love. I encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t wait—bring a taste of the South into your kitchen today!