Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad

With its comforting flavor, Southern chicken salad offers a taste of culinary tradition that never goes out of style. This old-fashioned recipe harkens back to our great-grandmother's day, when a well-seasoned mix of chopped chicken and celery were bound together with homemade mayonnaise and a generous splash of fresh lemon juice. Boiled eggs and pickled relish were optional, as well as the cut of chicken—feel free to use a combination of light and dark meat for maximum flavor.

While we use store-bought mayonnaise for this version, the flavor of this chicken salad is just as comforting and balanced as the ones we remember. Whether this beloved dish is served over a bed of greens, tucked into a sandwich, or savored by the spoonful, it's always devoured in no time.

Learn how to make classic Southern chicken salad, and enjoy a taste of comfort and nostalgia once again.

Ingredients for Southern Chicken Salad

A classic blend of mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, onion, and salt is tossed with cooked chicken and hard-cooked eggs for a creamy chicken salad that will become your new go-to. To make Southern chicken salad, you'll need:

• Cooked chicken: The main ingredient of the chicken salad. Feel free to use cooked chicken breasts, shredded rotisserie chicken, or any cut of chicken you prefer.
• Hard-cooked eggs: Adds a creamy richness to the salad, along with additional protein and texture.
• Celery: A refreshing crunch within the salad.
• Onion: Adds sharpness and depth. Dice finely for a more subtle flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: A hint of acidity to brighten the salad.
• Table salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Celery salt: Reinforces the celery flavor while adding a savory depth.
• Ground white and red pepper: Adds a subtle heat. White pepper is more mild, while red adds spiciness and a touch of color.
• Mayonnaise: Binds the salad with its creamy texture.
• Paprika: Adds color and smokiness.
• Fresh parsley: For freshness and a pop of color.

How To Make Southern Chicken Salad

Making chicken salad should be simple and straightforward, and this recipe is no different. Simply toss the ingredients together, then chill. Stir in remaining mayonnaise, and serve with a garnish of paprika and parsley—It's that easy. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Combine and chill: Toss all ingredients except mayonnaise, paprika, and parsley in a bowl. Fold in some mayonnaise. Cover and chill.
• Step 2. Add remaining mayonnaise: Stir in remaining mayonnaise. Serve with paprika and parsley to garnish.

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad Variations

Just because this is an old-fashioned recipe, doesn't mean you can't put your own twist on it. Consider these variation ideas to add flavor and texture to this classic dish:

• Protein: Switch it up by using leftover cooked turkey, or a mix of light and dark meat chicken.
• Spice: Increase the heat with cayenne pepper, or swap the paprika for curry powder for warmth and spice.
• Crunch: Add chopped Granny Smith apples for a tart bite, toasted nuts, crispy bacon, or pickle relish for tanginess and crunch.
• Onion: Swap the onions for red onions, scallions, chives, or shallots for a more mild flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Substitute all or part of the mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter and more tangy result. Use part mashed avocado for a modern twist.
• Herbs: Swap the parsley with fresh cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
• Sweetness: Add dried cranberries, halved grapes, or other favorite fruits for a sweet addition.

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

For the best chicken salad, keep these tips in mind:

• Fresh ingredients: Choose crisp, fresh celery and onion, fresh lemon juice, perfectly cooked eggs and chicken, and vibrant herbs for the best flavor and texture.
• A variety of textures: When making a chicken salad, keep an eye on textures. This old-fashioned version offers up a crunch from celery and onions, and a creamy touch from mayonnaise and hard-cooked eggs. Consider texture (and flavor) when adding additional mix-ins.
• Chill before serving: Chilling chicken salad gives the flavors time to meld and creates the creamiest texture.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of paprika and a few leaves of parsley takes this everyday dish into company-worthy territory.

Can I Make Old-Fashioned Chicken Salad Ahead?

There's no reason to make this chicken salad right before serving, especially if you have other dishes to prepare. Assemble this chicken salad through Step 1, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours ahead of serving. Add remaining mayonnaise as directed, and re-season to taste if needed. Garnish fresh before serving.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

What To Serve With Old-Fashioned Chicken Salad

Serve this chicken salad as an appetizer with crackers or crostini, tucked into sandwiches or wraps, or layered over a bed of greens. Chicken salad is a versatile dish that would be welcome at just about any occasion.

More Chicken Salad Recipes You'll Love

Chicken salad can be simple, or taken in a more unique direction. These recipes feature fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices for a twist on this classic party mainstay:

• Curry Chicken Salad
• Avocado Chicken Salad
• Cranberry Chicken Salad
• Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
• Tarragon Chicken Salad
• BBQ Chicken Salad
• Hot Chicken Salad

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.