Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

why make this recipe

This Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is simple and comforting. It uses everyday ingredients and takes little time. You can make it for lunch, a picnic, or an easy dinner. If you like salads with fruit and nuts for a change in flavor, try the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad recipe for a sweet and crunchy twist.

introduction

This chicken salad is creamy and mild. It keeps well and tastes good cold. You can use leftover cooked chicken to save time. The salad is classic in Southern homes and is easy to share.

how to make Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

1. Cook and cool the chicken, then shred or chop it into bite-size pieces.
2. Finely dice the celery and red onion. Add them to a large bowl with the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill for 15–30 minutes if you want a colder salad. Serve on lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling.

Ingredients :

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped, 1 cup celery, finely diced, ½ cup red onion, finely diced (optional), 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, Salt and pepper to taste, Lettuce leaves for serving

Directions :

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, and red onion. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Serve on lettuce leaves or as a filling for sandwiches.

how to serve Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

Serve it chilled on crisp lettuce leaves for a light meal. You can spoon it onto toasted bread, croissants, or rolls for sandwiches. Add tomato slices for extra freshness. It also works well alongside pickles, fresh fruit, or potato chips.

how to store Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. Eat within 3–4 days for best freshness. Do not freeze, because the mayonnaise and celery can change texture after freezing.

tips to make Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

• Use cold cooked chicken for easier mixing.
• Chop the chicken into even pieces for consistent bites.
• Taste the dressing and add salt or pepper as needed.
• If you prefer less mayo, start with ¾ cup and add more to reach the texture you like.
• Chill the salad before serving for better flavor.

variation (if any)

• Add diced apple or grapes for sweetness.
• Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Swap plain mayonnaise for a light mayo or Greek yogurt to reduce fat.
• Add a pinch of celery seed or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.

Q: Is the red onion required?
A: No. Red onion is optional. You can skip it or use green onion for a milder taste.

Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
A: Store it in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it chilled until serving.

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