Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
Southern chicken salad is a creamy, flavorful classic made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, onions, and a rich mayo dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over fresh greens. This easy recipe is ideal for meal prep, summer gatherings, or quick lunches.
Ingredients List
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– ½ small red onion, finely diced
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional add-ins: grapes, pecans, hard-boiled eggs, or dill pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Add shredded chicken, celery, and red onion. Mix until everything is well coated.
Step 3: Adjust seasoning and fold in optional add-ins like grapes or pecans if desired.
Step 4: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve in sandwiches, wraps, or over fresh greens for a light meal.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 290
Carbs: 4g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Not recommended for freezing as mayonnaise may separate.
Pairings/Suggestions
Delicious served on croissants, with crackers, or alongside a fresh green salad. Also pairs well with sweet tea or lemonade.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for spring and summer picnics, potlucks, and quick family meals. Great for make-ahead lunches and light dinners.
Conclusion
This southern chicken salad is creamy, versatile, and bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s a timeless recipe that works for picnics, gatherings, or easy meal prep. A true comfort food favorite for any occasion!
Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
4
servings15
minutes290
kcalA simple and delicious chicken salad made with mayo, Dijon mustard, celery, and red onion. Great for quick lunches, meal prep, or picnics.
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– ½ small red onion, finely diced
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional add-ins: grapes, pecans, hard-boiled eggs, or dill pickles
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded chicken, celery, and red onion. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Adjust seasoning and fold in optional add-ins like grapes or pecans if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve in sandwiches, wraps, or over fresh greens for a light meal.
Recipe Video
Notes
- A creamy and flavorful chicken salad perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over fresh greens.
Quick to make with simple ingredients like mayo, Dijon mustard, celery, and red onion.
Great for meal prep, picnics, or a light and refreshing lunch option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Q2: How do I make it lighter?
You can replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors develop.
