southern chicken salad recipe

Homemade Southern Chicken Salad Recipe – Classic & Creamy

Bykernelrecipes.com
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Growing up in the South, I remember my grandma’s chicken salad. It filled our kitchen with a warm, comforting smell. This dish was a mix of savory, creamy, and sweet flavors that brought us together.

Now, I make this recipe at home. It’s a way to connect with my roots and share Southern tastes with my family.

The Perfect Southern Comfort Food: A Family Tradition

Southern Chicken Salad is more than a dish; it’s a family tradition. It’s a key part of southern cuisine recipes, bringing comfort and delicious taste from the South. Its flavors, including Old Bay and celery seed, make it a favorite in many homes.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Southern Chicken Salad is special because it’s versatile. It’s great for lunch, potlucks, or big gatherings. Its easy to make and loved by all, making it perfect for any event.

History of Southern Chicken Salad

The Southern Chicken Salad’s roots are in the American South’s rich food history. It’s a classic southern recipes loved for generations. Families have made their own versions, adding unique twists. This creates a rich tapestry of flavors that truly represent southern cuisine recipes.

“Southern Chicken Salad is more than just a dish – it’s a time-honored tradition passed down through generations.”

Essential Ingredients for Classic Chicken Salad

Making the perfect southern chicken salad recipe begins with picking the right ingredients. The key to this dish is a mix of tasty and creamy parts that blend well. Let’s look at the main parts that make a classic chicken salad so tasty.

  • Shredded chicken: A mix of dark and white meat for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Mayonnaise: The secret to a rich and creamy dressing.
  • Whole grain mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
  • Dill pickle relish: Provides a refreshing crunch and briny note.
  • Old Bay seasoning: Lends a distinctive coastal flavor.
  • Celery seed: Enhances the savory undertones.
  • Granulated onion and garlic: Elevates the overall seasoning.
  • Dried dill weed: Imparts a fresh, herbal essence.
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper: To season the salad perfectly.

These main ingredients are the heart of a classic chicken salad. But, you can also add more to make it even better. Try adding chopped celery, red onion, and sweet things like dried cranberries or grapes. They add a nice crunch and sweetness.

IngredientQuantityNutrition (per serving)
Shredded Chicken3 cupsProtein: 22g
Mayonnaise1 cupFat: 18g
Whole Grain Mustard2 tbspCarbohydrates: 1g
Dill Pickle Relish1/4 cupSodium: 410mg
Old Bay Seasoning1 tspCalories: 294kcal

With these key ingredients, you can make a southern chicken salad that’s both classic and irresistible. The mix of flavors and textures will make your taste buds happy with every bite.

Choosing and Preparing the Chicken

Choosing the right chicken is key for a great southern chicken salad. You can pick a rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breasts. Make sure to shred the chicken while it’s warm for easier handling.

A food processor can help with quick shredding. But, be careful not to shred it too much. This can make the chicken mushy.

Rotisserie vs. Homemade Chicken

Both rotisserie and homemade chicken are good for easy chicken salad recipes. Rotisserie chicken saves time, while homemade chicken lets you control the flavor. The most important thing is to shred the chicken into small pieces for the right texture.

Proper Shredding Techniques

  • Use two forks to gently pull the chicken apart into bite-sized pieces.
  • Alternatively, a food processor can be used for quicker shredding, but be cautious not to over-process the chicken.
  • Shred the chicken while it’s still warm, as this makes the process easier and more efficient.

Temperature and Timing Tips

Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 160°F for the best results. This ensures it’s cooked but still juicy. Let the chicken cool to room temperature before mixing it with other ingredients for your southern chicken salad recipe.

The Secret to Creamy Chicken Salad Dressing

The secret to a creamy chicken salad is in the dressing. A top-notch mayonnaise-based salad is essential. But it’s the mix of extra ingredients that makes it special.

Begin with Duke’s mayonnaise for its rich taste. Add a bit of whole grain mustard for a zesty kick. Dill relish brings a tangy flavor, and fresh lemon juice adds brightness.

Season the dressing with Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, and dried dill. These spices enhance the chicken’s flavor, making the dressing balanced and delicious.

It’s all about finding the right mix of creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, and spices. Adjust the flavors until it’s just right. This will make your creamy chicken salad a must-try.

Creamy Chicken Salad Dressing

IngredientQuantity
Mayonnaise1/3 to 1/2 cup
Whole Grain Mustard1 tablespoon
Dill Relish1 tablespoon
Lemon Juice1 tablespoon
Old Bay Seasoning1/2 teaspoon
Celery Seed1/4 teaspoon
Dried Dill1/4 teaspoon

With this dressing, your creamy chicken salad will be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it on sandwiches, in tomatoes, or as a main dish salad.

Southern Chicken Salad Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a tasty southern chicken salad is easy and rewarding. It’s a dish that’s both creamy and flavorful. Follow these steps to make a classic southern chicken salad that will make your meal special.

Preparing the Base

Begin by cooking your chicken breasts. You can poach or grill them until they hit 165°F. Let them cool, then cut them into small pieces. Using a rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken adds a nice flavor.

Mixing the Dressing

Next, mix the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Use mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper as needed.

Combining Everything Together

In a big bowl, mix the chicken, celery, onion, and pickles. Add the creamy dressing and gently fold until everything is coated.

Chill the salad for at least an hour. This lets the flavors mix well and the dressing thicken. It makes the salad perfect.

The result is a creamy, satisfying southern chicken salad. You can enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or on greens. It’s a true comfort food that brings the South to your plate.

Adding Texture and Crunch: Mix-ins and Variations

Make your Southern chicken salad even better with mix-ins. Want some crunch? Try sliced almonds or chopped pecans. For sweetness, add dried cranberries or halved grapes. Diced apples add a refreshing flavor.

Feel adventurous? Try curry powder, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or Dijon mustard in the dressing. You can make your summer salad recipes just how you like them.

Mix-In IngredientQuantityFlavor Profile
Sliced almonds1/4 cupCrunchy, nutty
Chopped pecans1/4 cupButtery, toasted
Dried cranberries1/3 cupSweet, tart
Halved grapes1/2 cupJuicy, refreshing
Diced apples1/2 cupCrisp, slightly tangy
Curry powder1 teaspoonWarm, aromatic
Chopped dill or parsley2 tablespoonsHerbaceous, fresh
Dijon mustard1 tablespoonTangy, pungent

The great thing about chicken salad ingredients is you can make them your own. Start with the basic recipe and then add your favorite mix-ins. This way, you can make a dish that really hits the spot.

Chicken Salad Ingredients

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Southern Chicken Salad is great for many occasions. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a tasty sandwich. This recipe offers many ways to serve it, meeting your needs.

Sandwich Options

For a classic meal, try it on soft bread or flaky croissants. The creamy chicken salad and savory flavors go well with the bread. Or, for a lighter option, serve it in crisp lettuce wraps for a refreshing meal.

Creative Serving Vessels

  • Halved cantaloupe melons: Scoop the chicken salad into the natural bowls created by halving cantaloupe melons for an elegant and eye-catching presentation.
  • Individual servings: For picnics or potlucks, consider serving the chicken salad in individual portions using small jars, cups, or bowls. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
  • Atop a green salad: Elevate a simple green salad by topping it with a generous scoop of the creamy chicken salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Crackers or crostini: Offer the chicken salad as a dip or spread, served with crisp crackers or toasted crostini for a delightful appetizer or snack.

There are endless ways to serve this picnic salad recipe or potluck salad idea. Whether it’s a classic sandwich, a refreshing lettuce wrap, or a creative dish, everyone will love it.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions

This easy chicken salad recipe is great for summer gatherings or meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This lets the flavors get better over time.

For the best taste, make the salad at least 2 hours before you serve it. This lets the ingredients chill and the flavors to come together.

If the salad gets watery, just stir it well before serving. But don’t freeze it. Freezing can mess up the creamy texture of the dressing. Enjoy your summer salad recipes within 4 days for the best taste.

These simple tips make it easy to prepare this Southern Chicken Salad ahead of time. You can spend more time with your guests and less time cooking. Enjoy this classic dish whenever you want!

FAQ

What is Southern Chicken Salad?

Southern Chicken Salad is a classic recipe loved for generations. It’s easy to make and great for meals on the go. It has tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing, perfect for sandwiches or a light meal.

What makes this Southern Chicken Salad recipe stand out?

This recipe is special because of its balanced flavors. It includes Old Bay seasoning and celery seed. It’s a family favorite, blending Southern traditions with ease of preparation.

What are the key ingredients in Southern Chicken Salad?

The main ingredients are shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and mustard. It also has dill pickle relish, Old Bay seasoning, and spices. You can add celery, red onion, and sweet elements like cranberries or grapes.

How do I prepare the chicken for Southern Chicken Salad?

Use a rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts in chicken broth with thyme. Shred the chicken while it’s warm. A food processor helps with shredding, but be careful not to overdo it. Cook the chicken to 160°F and let it cool before mixing.

What’s the secret to a creamy Southern Chicken Salad dressing?

High-quality mayonnaise, like Duke’s, is key for a creamy dressing. Mix it with mustard, dill relish, lemon juice, and spices. The dressing should hold the salad together without overpowering it.

How do I make Southern Chicken Salad?

Start by preparing the chicken and veggies. Mix the dressing ingredients separately. Combine the chicken, veggies, and mix-ins in a bowl. Add the dressing and fold gently. Refrigerate for at least an hour to meld flavors.

What are some mix-in ideas for Southern Chicken Salad?

Add mix-ins for texture and flavor. Try sliced almonds, dried cranberries, or diced apples. For a twist, add curry powder or fresh herbs to the dressing.

How do I serve and store Southern Chicken Salad?

Serve it on bread, in lettuce wraps, or as a standalone dish. It’s also good with crackers or on a green salad. For picnics, use small jars or cups. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.