Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless comfort dish that has been served at church luncheons, family reunions, baby showers, and Sunday dinners for generations. Creamy, simple, and full of familiar flavors, this classic recipe focuses on tender chicken, crisp celery, and just the right amount of seasoning—all brought together with a rich, mayonnaise-based dressing.
What sets Southern chicken salad apart from modern variations is its simplicity. There are no trendy add-ins or overpowering flavors—just honest ingredients prepared the way Grandma made them. The chicken is finely chopped or shredded, the texture is soft yet slightly crunchy, and the flavor is mild, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
This chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it on white bread, buttery croissants, crackers, or lettuce leaves. It works just as well for casual lunches as it does for elegant gatherings. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for busy schedules and entertaining.
If you’re craving a nostalgic, no-fuss recipe that feels like home, Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is exactly what you need.
Ingredients
4 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup mayonnaise
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional but traditional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
Optional: pinch of sugar (very Southern touch)
Preparation
Step 1:
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